The Leitrim community will come together for the 34th annual Tullaghan Pony Drive

The popular Tullaghan Pony Drive will take place on Saturday 8th September at 3pm.

Now in its 34th year, the event is set to raise money for three charities – North West Hospice, North West Stop and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.

The Tullaghan Pony Drive started in 1990, organized by Martin McGowan, his brother Peter McGowan, wife Mary McGowan, Brendan Sheridan and Mary Maguire. Since then, every year, it has been held on the second Sunday of September.

This year, Aisling McGowan, Martin’s daughter, took the reins of organizing the charity event.

“It is the only pony drive that has continued to run continuously. We’ve raised thousands over the years but it wouldn’t be possible without people buying tickets, businesses supporting us and people turning up on the day,” explained Aisling.

“There are people who come from all over Ireland to our pony trail.”

The pony ride is a huge community event, attracting locals and people from all over the county, whether they are spectators or pony drivers.

This year, there are four prizes up for grabs. First prize is a choice of five lambs or cash equivalent, second prize is a €200 Selkie restaurant voucher, third prize is €200 and fourth prize is €100 cash.

There will be an auction and raffle on the day, along with music by Damien Kelly and refreshments.

The Tullaghan Pony Drive has also been sponsored this year to the tune of €200 which will be split between the best driving horse and the best riding horse.

“People are very generous and they also see where our money is going. There is not a family that has not been touched by these charities.”

This is Aisling’s first year organizing the pony drive and she is determined to carry on the legacy of previous contributors who have worked hard to make the charity event a success.

“Two of our founders have passed away, so for me, it’s very important to carry on, to keep everything they’ve done over the years alive and to appreciate the hard work they’ve put in.

“I hope to make them all proud, it’s a big undertaking,” she said.

Tickets for the pony ride are on sale for €4 each, three for €10 or a book for €20 in The Anglers Rest and Spar in Kinlough.

Tickets are also available in Goodies Cafe and Dip ‘n’ Sip in Bundoran.