Derry pupil dominates Northern Region Pony Awards

Derry’s own Abbie Rose McGeady, a dedicated student at St Mary’s College, has capped off an extraordinary final year in pony competition by sweeping the major honours at the recent SJI Northern Region Pony Awards.

The awards ceremony celebrated a golden 2025 season for McGeady, who established herself as one of the most consistent and talented young riders in the country.

Her performance in the 148cm category saw her secure a haul of championship titles and top-placed finishes at Ireland’s most prestigious equestrian venues.

Throughout 2025, Abbie Rose demonstrated remarkable versatility and skill, securing major accolades.

Some of these award included: 148 1.20m Champion TRI Equestrian 2025 Series; Champion of both the 148 6/7-Year-Old Young Pony Series and the TRI Autumn Tour; Pony Points Cup joint winner for the 2025 season; Recognised as the highest-placed Ulster athlete in the 1.15m Pony Masters at the Mullingar International and the Bob Sweeney Future Champions at the National Pony Championships.

Abbie Rose also successfully qualified in the elite 6/7-year-old 148cm category at the RDS Dublin Horse Show.

As 2025 marked her final year of eligibility for pony competition (aging out at 16), the Northern Region awards served as a fitting "retirement" tribute to a stellar junior career. The St Mary’s College pupil is now looking ahead to the 2026 season as she makes the significant step up to horse ranks.

READ NEXT: Derry’s Daniel Coyle gallops to $200,000 Grand Prix victory at World Equestrian Centre

With a new horse already in her stable and training well, Abbie Rose is set to bring the same work ethic and talent to the horse circuit this year. Her transition marks the beginning of a new competitive era, with the local Derry community and her school peers at St Mary’s eagerly watching her progress.