*Canal Laurinston—Connemara Stallion

*Canal Laurinston, (known as “Chip” to his fans), is an American Connemara Pony Society inspected and approved Connemara stallion, imported from Ireland in 1991 by Napa’s “Stonybrook Connemaras.”  He has prized Irish bloodlines with a host of Connemara In Hand and Performance winners in his pedigree.

Before coming to California, Chip was already recognized and rewarded by judges in Ireland for his Connemara type and movement.  In 1991, as a yearling, Chip was shown In Hand by his breeder, Padraic Hynes, at the prestigious Galway Breeders' Show, and won his large class.  In his next In Hand outing, he placed second in a class of more than 40 colts at the internationally-attended Clifden Connemara Pony Show.  The years marched on, and the following record proves Chip a consistent and highly-visible winner.

Chip is a champion, over and over again, having been judged West Coast Supreme Breed Champion on four occasions by four different In Hand Judges.  He has excelled in six disciplines, qualifying for recognized year-end championships, at several levels, in Dressage and Eventing. He has won numerous performance championships and perpetual trophies at annual Connemara breed shows.   A number of years ago, within the American Connemara Pony Society, Chip earned the highest award attainable for “Excellence in Dressage.”

Chip is a proven sire. He has get from coast-to-coast and in Canada, already launched into successful performance careers, some already champions in their chosen disciplines!  He passes on his exceptional movement and according to satisfied mare owners, his foals always benefit from his athletic talent.  In the words of a well-known jumper clinician, “Chip is a beautiful mover and a superior athlete.”  He is quite elegant and exhibits many commendable Connemara characteristics, including admirable breed type and excellent disposition.  He is a perfect gentleman and proud Connemara Ambassador!

In 2006, Chip officially retired from competition.  He has "done it all," earning a well-deserved retirement.  When not in Penngrove for breeding, he can be found at his Napa home, Stonybrook Connemaras, where he will live out his years with "the love of his life," one of our foundation broodmares, Balius Golden Piper.  He will continue to make promotional appearances.   Whenever possible, Lee and Chip will enjoy riding with the Los Altos Hounds.  Chip will stand at stud until further notice.