It’s taken us all summer but we finally caught up with Shane Moloney. Shane is a hard man to keep up with, he never seems to be off a pony, either warming up or competing. A super cool competitor under pressure, no competition is ever a foregone conclusion until he has jumped! A quality he exhibited recently winning a very competitve 1.10M Nutriscience/Mackey Summer Tour Final in Ballyrafter, with a third place also just for good measure.
Rider: Shane Moloney
County: Colligan Equestrian Centre, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford
First Pony: CECMOJO in Carling King league and Glencarrick Lady , in which I was placed 3rd and leading rider aged 7.
Favourite Pony: My favourite pony was Sprinters Magic (128); in one year we won 21 competitions, one RDS qualifier, and third with Shane Breen in the RDS international pairs relay! I also liked Cappagh Sparrow who won over 20 competitions, and I was also national champion at Ennis pony and young rider championship.
Best Advice: Go for it! Know your strides, do not take one out and pay the penalty.
Best Achievement: achieving a double clear for team Ireland on the Children on Horses Nations Cup team in Deauville, France. I was so proud of my favourite horse Valtaire to represent my country and wear the green jacket. I have been to the RDS since I was 10 with Sprinters, Valtaire , and Ballynoe Galway girl . My last year in ponies I have had a second in the RDS, and a win in the Star Finder in Mullingar National Championship and good results in Pony Owners at Millstreet. I won the Coolmore stake 148 final on Woodlawn Majestic, and the Nutriscience/Mackey 148 1.10m final on Ballynoe Galway Girl. I have been very lucky to have the backing of my parents and great owners who provided me with great animals to compete on, which helps make winning easier.
Ambition: I have had a great time in ponies and I am looking forward to Young Riders next year.
Favourite Rider: My favourite rider is Nick Skelton proving hard work and dedication does pay!
We wish Shane the very best in his future which judging from his CV and success to date is likely to match his favourite rider Nick Skelton. Anyone who has seen him compete will have noticed similar qualities; quietly determined and always competitive. He has a great ability and understanding to bring on a young pony and knows exactly when and how far to push to get the best result on the day. With this ability and the great support he has at home, we have no doubt we will see him many more times in the Green Jacket!!
