Breeders of Ireland's only native pony cannot keep up with demand for the horse among parents of young children, according to the Connemara Pony Breeders' Society.
The society, due to hold its annual show on August 18th, says sales of the pony have never been healthier.
"Six years ago, colt and filly foals were selling from £100 to £200 in the October sales," says Padraic Heanue, manager of Clifden Pony Sales. "Last October, we got €5,300 for one foal and, on average, foals are fetching from €1,600 to €2,500."
Worldwide co-operation between Connemara pony societies will be the conference theme at Clifden on August 16th, two days before the show.
