The national governing body for equestrian sport in Ireland, Horse Sport Ireland (HSI), has welcomed the new Moving Animal Welfare Forward strategy launched by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD.Horse Sport Ireland particularly welcomes the increased focus on equine welfare and the specific measures proposed to build on the recommendations contained in Professor Paddy Walls 2025 report.Earlier this year, HSI made a detailed submission to the Department outlining a range of measures that it believes should be central to the States approach to animal welfare, particularly in relation to horses.Horse Sport Ireland welcomes the extensive stakeholder engagement undertaken by Minister Martin Heydon and his department during the development of the strategy and appreciates the opportunity afforded to contribute.Speaking on the new strategy, HSI CEO Denis Duggan said: The welfare of horses is a cornerstone of the work Horse Sport Ireland undertakes day in and day out. We work closely with DAFM and the Minister to strengthen safeguards, and the Department has undertaken extensive research and stakeholder engagement to further enhance animal welfare protections through this new strategy.Minister Heydon has consistently prioritised animal welfare, making it a key feature of the Programme for Government and driving the implementation of the recommendations contained in the Wall Report. The publication of this strategy further demonstrates that commitment and provides an important roadmap for continued progress. HSI particularly welcomes the commitment to enhance equine traceability through cross-border data sharing, additional traceability checkpoints and improved recording of equine deaths. Robust traceability systems are essential to protecting horse welfare throughout an animals lifetime.Maintaining societys trust is essential to the future of equestrian sport. Social licence is about more than complying with regulations. It is about demonstrating that horse welfare is at the heart of our decision-making. Public confidence in our sector depends on the highest welfare standards being consistently upheld.Collaboration with partners is a strong theme within the new strategy, and we look forward to supporting the Department in further improving welfare standards across the sector. Education remains one of the most effective tools for improving welfare standards and we welcome the strategys focus on raising awareness and promoting responsible ownership.Social Licence to Operate (SLO)Ultimately, the vast majority of people who work with and care for horses maintain the highest standards of welfare. However, we must ensure that those who fail to meet these standards are appropriately penalised. This is essential both to protect horses and to safeguard the future of Irelands equine sectors for generations to come, said Mr Duggan.Ireland has a global reputation for excellence in equestrian sport and breeding. Maintaining the highest standards of horse welfare is key to protecting that reputation, maintaining public confidence and ensuring a sustainable future for our sector. Horse Sport Ireland looks forward to working with the Department and stakeholders across the industry to help deliver the aim set out in the strategy.The post Horse Sport Ireland welcomes DAFMs new Animal Welfare Strategy appeared first on .

Nations Cup glory too, with Burke, Brennan and Derwin among individual winnersCiaran Nallon was a five-star winner this week at Rabats closing leg of the Longines Global Champions Tour, during which he has been a consistently high achiever this year.The Mayo man also helped his team to second in the last Global Champions League competition, with his team, Riesenbeck International having already bagged the overall title.There were a number of other strong performances from Irish riders in top level competition, with Denis Lynch in particular maintaining his stunning consistency to place second in Sundays Grand Prix and finish third overall in the individual standings.The Tipperary rider and Kildare native, Mikey Pender joined forces to finish third in the team contest and ensured that they would also take the bronze position in the overall standings.At Lyons World Cup show, Mark McAuley posted two top-four results, including a brilliant third-place return in the Equita Masters and a fourth in the Grand Prix.Elsewhere, Galwegian Jessica Burke was a dramatic winner of the three-star Grand Prix in Vejer de la Frontera, where Westmeath athlete, Francis Derwin was a two-star victor.The highlight for the Irish, however, was the duo joining forces with Dermott Lennon and Tom Wachman to win the Nations Cup for third year in a row, and the first under the stewardship of Jessica Krten.Meanwhile, also in Spain, Kilkenny pilot, Eoin Brennan, scored at two-star level in Oliva.Nallon delivered his sensational victory aboard Christians Carado, owned by Beerbaum Stables, in Saturdays 1.50m Prix Ministre de la Jeunesse, de la Culture et des Sports, holding off a star-studded field in Rabat.First to enter the arena in an 11-horse jump-off, the Ballymacredmond rider and his talented horse (below and top) attacked the course with gusto, without compromising their accuracy. The pair set a blistering time of 39.65 seconds, which in conjunction with a flawless clear would prove impossible to beat. Some were quicker but could not navigate all the obstacles. Those that left the rails in place were not quick enough.Italys Emanuele Gaudiano was the nearest challenger, with Nikolaj de Music. Producing another exceptional clear, Gaudiano stopped the clock in 40.26 seconds, just 0.61 behind the winner, to secure second place. Germanys Christian Ahlmann was third with Diamantino.I honestly wasnt expecting this at all, so it makes the win even more special, said a smiling Nallon.To go first in the jump-off against so many incredible riders, you never really think your time is going to be enough, so I was just hoping Id done enough to be competitive. To watch everyone else come in and not quite catch us was an unbelievable feeling. It really means a lot to me, especially at this stage of my career, and Im so grateful to the whole team behind us that make moments like this possible.Rabat is an amazing event, the venue is incredible and the whole show is organised to such a high standard. To win here, against this level of competition, is something Ill remember for a very long time.Nallon was also a major contributor as Riesenbeck International finished second at the end of the two speed competitions, just ahead of the New York Empire team of Lynch and Pender.In the opening class, Nallon and Inglesias D.V. (EARL Global Dreams Stables & Jerome Lassime) jumped clear but picked up two time faults, and then, he came back out for the second class and went clear with Christians Carado.The New York Empire team spearheaded by Lynch and Pender took the bronze medal. Lynch had three time faults in the first speed class with Cordial (Onyx Consulting Y Tipperarys Finest) and followed up with a clear on his other 17-year-old marvel Brooklyn Heights. Pender made sure to keep the rails intact with two rounds of one time fault each on the Irish Sport Horse he owns and bred, Madgeslane Louis.Nallon was ecstatic with the overall victory for his German-based team.I honestly struggle to find the words to describe what this means to me, he declared. This year has been absolutely indescribable, and to be part of a team alongside some of the biggest names in our sport, and to have been able to contribute to their success along the way, is a dream come true. To ride alongside the best riders in the world, with the support of the best management team, is an incredible privilege. It has been a year I will never forget, and an experience I will carry with me for the rest of my life.Lynch was pleased also.First of all, we have had incredible support from our team owner, Georgina (Bloomberg), throughout the entire season, and that has been hugely important to us. Every single person in this team has a role to play, and everyone has given 150% from start to finish. I think this is our best championship result, certainly since I joined the team, so to finish third overall is something we can all be extremely proud of.Maintaining that level of focus and commitment throughout such a long season when everyone gives their absolute best, the results follow. I always compare it to a football team. You look to your left and to your right, and when you know you have great people beside you who are giving everything for the team, it makes all the difference. That is exactly the feeling we have at New York Empire, and I think that has been key to our success this year.Nallon threatened to take out another big prize when making the jump-off for Sundays lucrative Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Rabat, where he was joined in the battle for a share of the pot and the prestigious title by Lynch and Harry Allen.The jump-off went very wrong for Nallon and Iglesias D.V., however, and they finished ninth with 31 faults that included 23 time faults. That still earned more than 12,000 and it was a memorable week once more for the German-based rider.Lynch was the man who went closest to prompting a rendition of Amhrn na bhFiann in the Moroccan capital, guiding the remarkable Cordial (above) to the runner-up berth.The venerable stallion was fresh as a daisy in the jump-off and was one of only two horses to keep all the obstacles in place. And when the timers froze, the son of Casall and his Tipperary town pilot were just 11 hundredths of a second shy of the 201,993 pot won by Angelica Augustsson Zanotelli (SWE), with Iron Dames Calvino II de Nyze Z.However, their safe jumping was enough for another top-flight podium for the pairing, and the plum sum of more than 120,000.Christian Ahlmann (GER) and Untouched LB were third, having clocked the fastest time in the jump-off but with a rail down.Allen and Aloga Stables Edison de Hus were last to have a tilt at the eye-popping first prize but unfortunately also had four faults. The Enniscorthy athlete made sure to keep going forward , however, and their time was fast enough to claim a considerable share of the prize money in fourth.Finishing third overall was a reward for Lynchs support of the series, and consistency in it, since the begging of the year.First of all, a big thank you once again to Jan (Tops) and his entire team for what they have delivered here this weekend and all year. It really is incredible, and we are very lucky to be able to compete at events like this. For me, our goal from the beginning was the team, and when you are riding for a strong team and performing consistently, you naturally put yourself in a good position in the Grand Prix and the overall championship as well. Finishing third in the individual championship is really the icing on the cake.Of course, I have also been incredibly fortunate to have Cordial, who has been an unbelievable horse for me and so consistent throughout the season. He has played a huge part in everything we have achieved. Now we look ahead to Verona, and I think it is going to be very exciting. There are so many strong combinations heading into the Playoffs, and I am sure it will be another spectacular event, just as we have seen in Prague and Riyadh in previous years. I am really looking forward to it. I will be bringing my best horses, making sure I am on top of my own game and giving it absolutely everything.Mark McAuley (above) narrowly missed out on a podium in the Longines Grand Prix at Equita Lyon, guiding the exciting Clooney van Spalbeek Z (SCEA La Tuiliere) to the jump-off with a brilliant clear. Only Henrik von Eckermann (SWE) managed a double clear, with Hylanderhofs Saruschka, but the Irish combo recorded the second-fastest of seven scores of four faults to finish fourth.The pair edged their way onto the plinth 24 hours later, however, in the Equita Masters, the signature class at the Concours Hippique International. This was an incredibly competitive and rigorous class, in which no combination managed to record a tally of zero faults.McAuley and Clooney ensured they would make the top 13 progressing to the second round by being one of only there combinations to go clear first time around.There were lots of time faults, as riders chose a safety-first policy and this strategy continued as the final group returned minus two of the qualified bakers dozen.By the time McAuley and his nine-year-old entered the arena, it was home favourite Pnlope Leprvost who had the lead, she and Hileklaire Un Prince adding two time faults to the one registered in her opening outing, and significantly, a second round time of 53.97.As the penultimate athlete, the Louth man opted to ensure he avoided any jumping blemishes too, to secure what would be a magnificent podium in such a prestigious class with a young horse, and he was penalised three points for exceeding the time limit in 54.79.That had him in the silver medal position momentarily but Martin Fuchs (SUI) bumped him down a slot by getting the balance between jumping and time sufficiently right to claim victory, picking up one time fault on his first five-star outing with Fave dAuthuit.Unfortunately, McAuley also had time trouble in the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup, as he and Rossi vd Hefflink (SCEA La Tuiliere) missed out on the jump-off by virtue of being 0.74 seconds outside the time allowed of 79, incurring one time fault.Frano Derwin and Parvati AEG, his own 11-year-old mare, are in a rich vein of form at present, and they made it a second victory in three shows in Fridays two-star speed class in Vejer de la Frontera.The Athlone equestrian and his fast chestnut were second of a whopping 93 contestants to take on the 1.45m test but one by one, they all fell by the wayside, failing to threaten the clear round in 62.31 posted by the duo.In the end, they had more than a second to spare from Briton Matthew Sampson, who guided his Michael Kelly-bred Irish Sport Horse, the Pacino gelding Latte Macchiato, around in 63.40.They would go on to finish fifth in Saturdays two-star Stephex Grand Prix, posting the quickest time in the jump-off but having a rail down to deny them victory.Also on Saturday, Jessica Burke stewarded BWE Windsor (ISH) to fourth in a three-star 1.50m jump-off class. It was a brilliant effort by the Brian McConville-owned-and-bred eight-year-old, who registered two excellent clear rounds and showed plenty of speed too to stop the timers in 28.92. Darragh Ryan and the nine-year-old As You Want Z (Mary Elle De Ruschi) also had a good class, finishing sixth after bagging a time that was an exact second slower than Burke.Burke brought the curtain down on the week with victory in the three-star Grand Prix, the Gort athlete launching a smash-and-grab effort in the three-star Andaluca Grand Prix (above).In the end, however, there was no doubting the dominance of the Galway native and Liam Nicholas Fly For You, when the smoke cleared.There were six combatants in the tiebreaker, having cleared the initial 16 jumping efforts, and Derwin and Flexi K were looking like the unluckiest of pairings, when they arrived and appeared to do everything right, but failed by just two hundredths of a second (35.36) to supplant Germanys Jens Wawrauschek and Mava S at the top of the rankings.Burke removed any lingering feelings of regret her compatriot might have felt, however, even if she bumped him down to third. The westerner and her 11-year-old mare were electric, and clean, and their time of 34.56 brought about an airing of the National Anthem and a joyous victory lap (below).By then, Burke and Derwin had joined forces with Dermott Lennon and Tom Wachman to win the three-star Nations Cup on Friday. It was the third year in succession for the Green Jackets to prevail, thanks to a cumulative tally of four faults.That was what they carried from the first round after a great start thanks to clean sheets from their individual winners during the week Derwin, with the Knightfield Stud-bred Irish Sport Horse Flexi K (Kerry Anne) and Burke with Billy Fern (Ballyward Equestrian), the latter duo ending up recording the fastest double clear of the event.Goolds Cross rider, Tom Wachman and Do It Easy (Coolmore Showjumping) had the drop score of the opening round, with Down native, Dermott Lennon providing the counting four faults with another Irish Sport Horse, the Gerrard Marron-bred Right On Time (ISH).They repeated that effort second time out but by then, Derwin and Flexi K, and Burke and Billy Fern had maintained perfection, and Wachman and Do It Easy also went clear to cement the victory in the Don Antonio arena.Friday turned out to be a red-letter day for Irish show jumping, as Eoin Brennan raised the Tricolour in Oliva with Augustus Z, owned and bred by his father Tim. The pair had more than two seconds in hand in the jump-off of the Grand Prix qualifier on the Mediterranean Equestrian Tour.The Kilkenny pilot excelled in the cockpit, as did the eight-year-old gelding in galloping to victory in Fridays GP Qualifier in the Oliva Nova arena. They never touched a pole in a consummate round of jumping, while displaying the easy athleticism so crucial in speed events.There were 71 participants but only one likely winner once the Irish pair(below) rocketed to a phenomenal time of 62.54, which was more than two seconds quicker than that recorded by the runner-up, Graham Babes (GBR) with Monks I Am Casall.The show ended with two Irish in the jump-off for the Grand Prix, and it is worth noting the performance of 73-year-old Belgooly maestro, Robert Splaine, the former national chef dquipe who guided Sarah Devines Laranco to seventh, after having a rail down in the jump-off. That placed him just ahead of Sligos Richard Howley, with Caprice dElle (Esm Equestrian)Conor Swail remained in Mexico for the three-star show in San Man Miguel de Allende, and Theo 160 (Mannon Farm) provided a silver medal on Thursday evening Irish time, just four days after his five-star heroics.There were nine clear rounds despite it being a fairly difficult test for , with an average of 6.4 faults per combination, and while six of those backed that up in the jump-off, the home win for Nicolas Pizarro, with Calua Blue PS, was dominant, via a time of 36.14. Theo and his Darragh Cross partner were second, in 37.45.There was another podium for Michael Duffy and Camina Z (Christoph Kuck) on Thursday, the duo repeating their runner-up return from last week by narrowly missing out on the top spot in a speed class at the two-star event in Riesenbeck.Hessel Hoekstra (NED) and Stargos VDL held the lead in the 1.45m class with a clear in 59.85 when the Turloughmore athlete trotted in with his nine-year-old grey stallion and they did everything bar snatch the major ribbon, stopping the clock a tenth of a second shy, in 59.95.Bertram Allen guided Danger 76 (Turn A Blind Eye) to third in Fridays Grand Prix Qualifier at the Peelbergen two-star show on Thursday. The 1.45m speed class was won by Giampiero Garofalo (ITA) with Kadessa Z, going clear in 65.35.Allen and his nine-year-old gelding were just under a second behind that standard in the EquiHome Arena, registering 66.34 to grab a significant share of the prize fund.BREEDINGMADGESLANE LOUIS (ISH) 2017 ch gelding by Luidam (KWPN) out of Madges Lane Karol (ISH) by Obos Quality 004 (OLDBG). Breeder: Michael Pender: Owner: Pender Sport Horses. Rider: Michael Pender (IRL)LATTE MACCHIATO (ISH) 2013 gelding by Pacino (BWP) out of Torboy Lady (ISH)[TIH] by Boherdeal Clover (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Michael Kelly, Co. Longford. Owner: HMF Equestrian. Rider: Matthew Sampson (GBR).FLEXI K (ISH) 2013 gelding by Flex A Bill (ISH)[TIH] out of Deeply Dippy K (ISH) by Luidam (KWPN). Breeder: Knightfield Stud, Co Kildare. Owner: Kerry Anne LLC. Rider: Francis Derwin (IRL)KINMAR RIGHT ON TIME (ISH) 2017 br gelding by Aganix du Seigneur (SBS) out of Kinmar Dancing Queen (ISH) by Dancing Boy (ISH) Breeder: Gerry Marron, Corduff, Co Monaghan. Rider: Dermott Lennon (IRL)PHOTO CREDITSDenis Lynch/Ciaran Nallon: LGCTJessica Burke/Nations Cup: Moiss BasalloteEoin Brennan: METThe post Nallon nails it in Rabat appeared first on .

The DAFM Studbook Eventing League Classes for 5-year-old, 6-year-old and 7-year-old horses and 5-year-old and 6&7-year-old ponies ran at Eventing Ireland events from 4th April (Tyrella) until the 20th of September (Lisgarvan) inclusive. The DAFM Eventing Studbook Series were incorporated into the existing age and height appropriate national classes rather than as standalone classes. The League results were calculated by EquiRatings and were made available shortly after each event on the Eventing Ireland Stats Centre. This series was funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine under National Breeding Services.Just under sixty applications were received from athletes to participate in the league across all age categories. Points were allocated per combination and any change of rider counted as a new combination with the best five results counting to the league.There were joint winners of both the five-year-old and six-year-old horse sections with five combinations achieving maximum points in their counting rounds. The five-year-old winners were Point Up (ISH) ridden by Ian Cassells and owned by Bridget McGing and Class Tower (ISH) ridden by Joseph Murphy and owned by Andrew Williams. Three combinations tied at the top of the six-year-old league, these were Fenyas Email (ISH) ridden by Sarah Ennis and owned by Pj Hegarty, Lollypop PH (WSI) ridden by young rider Isla Coad and owned by Carol Coad and Punch Lion (ISH) ridden by Jonathan Steele and owned by Pauline Falloon. Taking the spoils in the seven-year-old section was MT Kenobis Touch (ISH) ridden by Clare Abbott and owned by Gareth Carlisle.Full league results can be found in the Stats Centre section of the Eventing Ireland website.Breeding:Point Up (ISH): 2021 mare by Upsilon (AA) out of Diamond Pointe (ISH) (TIH), by Pointilliste (USA). Bred by Bridget McGing, Co. Kildare.Class Tower (ISH): 2021 gelding by Mendoza VDL (KWPN) out of Tag Me (IRE), by Tagula (IRE). bred by Paddy Cleary, Co. Kilkenny.Fenyas Email (ISH): 2020 mare by Jaguar Mail (SF) out of Fenyas Elegance (ISH), by Ricardo Z (ZANG). Bred by PJ Hegarty, Co. Cork.Lollypop PH (WSI): 2020 mare by Cormint (HOLST) out of DSIR de LEspirit M2S (KWPN), by Dsir du Chteau (SF). Bred by Paul Hughes, Co. Derry.Punch Lion (ISH): 2020 gelding by Herald 3 (HOLST) out of Carola Lion (ISH), by ARD VDL Douglas (KWPN). Bred by Grace Kelly, Co. Mayo.MT Kenobis Touch (ISH): 2019 gelding by Mullaghdrin Touch The Stars (ISH), out of Lux So Easy (ISH), by Lux Z (HANN). Bred by Charles Black, Co. Down.The post DAFM Eventing Studbook Series League winners appeared first on .

The Irish Senior Show Jumping team, managed by high-performance team manager Jessica Kurten demonstrated their class in securing the top spot in this afternoons 50,000 CSIO3* KAR Sport Horses Nations Cup on the Andaluca October Sunshine Tour, finishing on a team total of 4 faults.Ireland carried four faults from the first round before producing a further three clears to secure the win on a total of four faults, ahead of the USA on 8 and third place Italy on a team total of 10.Irish riders Jessica Burke and Francis Derwin produced a clean sheet, Derwin aboard the Irish Sport Horse Flexi K with Burke and Billy Fern delivering the fastest double clear of the day.Tom Wachman and Do It Easy had the drop score of the opening round, with a faultless clear on the combinations return the arena. Dermott Lennon and the Gerrard Marron bred Kinmar Right on Time (ISH) completed the Irish effort with a four-fault opener and a four-fault drop score in the second round.FLEXI K (ISH) 2013 gelding by Flex A Bill (ISH)[TIH] out of Deeply Dippy K (ISH) by Luidam (KWPN). Breeder: Knightfield Stud, Co. Kildare. Rider: Francis Derwin (IRL)Kinmar Right On Time (ISH) 2017 gelding by Aganix du Seigneur out of Kinmar Dancing Queen (ISH) by Dancing Boy (ID) Breeder: Gerrard Marron, Rider: Dermott LennonThe post IRELAND SECURES VICTORY IN CSIO3* KAR SPORT HORSES NATIONS CUP AT VEJER DE LA FRONTERA appeared first on .

Horse Sport Ireland has paid tribute to Dr. Dermot Forde and thanked him for his long-standing service and outstanding contribution to Irish equestrian sport as his role in the position of FEI National Head Veterinarian comes to an end.Dr. Forde, a veterinary surgeon who also holds a Diploma in Sports Law, has dedicated much of his professional life to the development of equestrian sport in Ireland.He has accumulated a lifetime of experience and has made a significant contribution to the development of the Irish equine industry with his involvement at national level dating back to 1976, when he was appointed Breeding Manager of the Irish Horse Board.During his time with the Irish Horse Board, Dr. Forde oversaw the introduction of the Irish Horse Register, an important development in the organisation and identification of Irelands horse population and one which has played a significant role in the development of the Irish Sport Horse and the wider Irish equine industry.More recently, Dr. Forde has provided many years of dedicated service as FEI National Head Veterinarian for Ireland, bringing extensive veterinary expertise, experience and knowledge of international equestrian governance to the role.His contribution has extended across veterinary regulation, horse welfare and Irelands participation in international equestrian sport, providing invaluable support to Horse Sport Ireland, the Irish equestrian community and Irelands engagement with the Fdration Equestre Internationale (FEI).Horse Sport Ireland Chief Executive Denis Duggan said: On behalf of Horse Sport Ireland, I would like to sincerely thank Dermot for his exceptional contribution to Irish equestrian sport over such a long period of time.Dermots contribution goes far beyond his time as National Head Veterinarian, a role he has acted in for many years. He has been involved in the development of Irish equestrian sport and the Irish equine industry for decades, bringing an extraordinary depth of knowledge, experience and passion to everything he has undertaken.His appointment as Breeding Manager of the Irish Horse Board 50 years ago, in 1976, and his involvement in the introduction of the Irish Horse Register are just two examples of the lasting contribution he has made to the Irish horse industry.Dermot is a passionate horseman and has always brought a tremendous commitment to the welfare of the horse and to the development of our sport. His expertise has made him an invaluable resource to Horse Sport Ireland and to the Irish equestrian community.We are extremely grateful to Dermot for his dedication, professionalism and service over so many years. His contribution is deeply appreciated by Horse Sport Ireland.Horse Sport Ireland will now commence an open and competitive recruitment process to appoint a successor to the role of FEI National Head Veterinarian for Ireland.Dr. Forde will continue to discharge the functions of the National Head Veterinarian pending completion of the recruitment process and the appointment of his successor.The post HSI thanks Dr. Dermot Forde as his National Head Veterinarian term comes to a close appeared first on .

Coyle also a five-star winner and World Cup runner-up with miracle horse FarrelConor Swail was the toast of San Miguel de Allende yesterday, winning both international classes, at five-star and two-star level to bring his tally of victories for the week in Mexico to three.Two of those were at five-star level and he completed the Grand Prix double into the bargain. The three wins were provided by different horses and a fourth bagged two podiums. It was utter domination.His close friend, fellow Ulsterman and former protg Daniel Coyle was in similar form in Upper Marlboro, bagging a five-star win as well as a pair of Grands Prix silver medals, with Shane Sweetnams third just behind his Olympic teammate in the World Cup class moving the Cork man to the top of the North American League.Swail brought a top team to Guanajuato and bagged his first Grand Prix in partnership with Clonterm Obolensky (ISH) on Saturday night Irish time, the duo recording the only double clear of the competition.They have competed at Nations Cup level and it seemed only a matter of time before their consistency would be translated to a victory of this nature. The 10-year-old, owned by Ollie Glancy and bred by Brian Duff, illustrated his scope and class to jump clear in the opening round of the 1.60m test.Only two other pairings joined them in the jump-off, with Swail and Obi (above) first to go. The experienced Darragh Cross man used that to his advantage, as he used the greys long stride and apart from one little rub in the second part of the combination, they were flawless and quick, posting a time of 43.78 seconds that was sure to ask significant questions of the remaining pair.They were questions neither John Perez Bohm (COL) with Lareusa S (eight faults) nor Sharn Wordley (NZL) with Brin DOr De Haute Melen Z (four faults) could answer, forced into errors in attempting to go quicker.Swail praised his horse later on his social media feed, though he had particular praise for his staff and owners.Thank you to Obi but a huge thank you to my team. Its such an understatement when I say none of this would be possible without you, said Swail after collecting the $1.5m first prize.He would conclude the show on Sunday with two victories, first providing the 1-2 in the five-star special two-phase class, taking the win on Glancys remarkably reliable Theo 160, who prevailed from his stablemate Casturano (Conall Murray).Theo is an absolute machine in speed classes, and was winning at international level for the 34th time and 17th in 1.50m competitions. Casturano is more accustomed to big jumping tests so his speed effort of 31.76 was notable indeed.And though that saw off the rest of the opposition, with Wordley again the best of the rest, this time with Champion League, there was no denying Theo (below after a previous victory, shared with the equally famous Ralphie), who shaved almost a full second off Stans best, stopping the timers in 30.81 to take the spoils.And Swail added a final cherry on top when guiding Nadal Hero & DB to success in the two-star Grand Prix, seeing off 54 other combinations and preventing a home victory, with another very quick double clear.Nadal has been a revelation this year and once again, with his astute rider steering him well, their jump-off round brooked little argument, as they clocked 37.78 for a second clear, to beat Paola Amilibia Puig (MEX) and Quinley by nine-tenths of a second.On Thursday, Swail accumulated a couple of strong results with Casturano, to give a hint, perhaps, of what was to come. They began with a fourth-place finish at the opening international class on Wednesday, after a nice double clear in the 1.45m two-phase that served as a lovely arm-up for bigger tests.Indeed, after a few weeks off, Swail was clearly anxious to blow out a few cobwebs on Stan and they were back to complete the podium in the 1.50m jump-off class, which had 43 contestants, again leaving all the fences intact twice and only a little more than half a second away from victory, which went to Mexicos Carlos Rodolfo Molina Gordillo, with Kansas Santa Rosa.The Co Down pilot was back on the podium on Friday with another cash collector, Nadal Hero & DB, third in the two-star 1.45m special two-phase class and rounded out the top five with another of his stars, Theo 160 after having a fence down in the 1.50m jump-off class to miss out on the tiebreaker. That pair would deliver when it counted at the end of the week.The five-star jumper division kicked off at the 2026 Washington International Horse Show, presented by MARS Equestrian, in ideal fashion for Coyle on Thursday, as the Olympian guided Farrel (Ariel Grange) to top spot in the Welcome Stake (below).A total of 11 qualified for the tiebreaker after Colm Quinns initial test and Farrels low centre of gravity proved ideal in the tight and twisty turns on his first indoor outing in many years. His electric time of 35.23 was more than a second clear of Israels Mark Bluman, with Landon de NyzeIt was a 23rd FEI ranking win for Farrel, the now 16-year-old that missed four years of action through injury, before a barely credible recovery that has allowed him to enjoy an Indian Summer.Coyle was understandably overjoyed by his success in a class he has previously won with another Grange-owned legend, his now-retired super mare, Legacy.Farrel is so handy in these small arenas, and we havent done indoors in a few years like this at the top level, so its nice to kick it off with a win, he acknowledged. Hes a real partner of mine, and we can go anywhere together.Most horses are a lot harder to turn, but with an old partner like this, he already knows if I lean one way, hes away before me. What makes you fast, especially in a small indoor like this is turning back to the fences. And I think tonight, from the third to the fourth jump, that was a real spot where I earned a lot of time.Theres only one way to attack this, and its from the beginning and hope I get away with it, he revealed of his plan. At least then it gives them something to challenge. Everything came up the way I wanted it to.Coyle revealed that winning the FEI Jumping World Cup was a major target and the pair went close to securing the Presidents Cup, with the Co Derry athlete feeling like he didnt make the best of the opportunity, albeit they did come away with the silver medal.This was five and a half years after Farrel won a World Cup leg in Ocala. The pair, who first joined forces when the gelding was seven, had won a World Cup before that, in Langley, in 2019.As third pair in the definitive round (above), they made it very interesting with a time of 37.13 thanks to some breathtaking turns but Coyle felt they could have done better and he was proved correct, as Lillie Keenan and Kick On shaved of 0.44 seconds and kept the rails in place to emerge triumphant.My plan didnt go according to plan at all, admitted Coyle. Already from the third to fourth jump, I tried to leave in seven strides and didnt make it, same as Lillie, but also to the last fence. Farrel was very, very handy and very, very fast. I was still quite fast, but I knew I left the door open a little bit.It was not long after winning in Ocala that Farrel developed a cyst on his stifle, which shuffled him into a premature retirement. Grange, keen for the gelding to live out his life in comfort, opted for him to have surgery and gradually, the diminutive, spirited winner told them he wasnt done yet. Having won regularly in the past year or so, and also been part of Irelands Aga Khan Cup runner-up team at the RDS this year, he is as competitive as ever.He loves the sport more than people. I thought if I could get him back to doing some speed classes, it would be a miracle, but to have him at the top of the sport is unbelievable. Im really, really lucky to have him.With a quick trip after Keenan, Sweetnam slotted into third place with a time of 38.09 seconds on Pia Maria H (above), owned by Sweetnam and Seabrook LLC.Even though shes 11, shes a green 11, and she didnt have the kind of mileage that shes gotten this summer, said Sweetnam of. In her development, shes gotten better and better all year, and shes jumped in places like Aachen and Dublin. This is probably the first time doing indoors ever in her life, and third in the World Cup is pretty good. I think were really making good steps for her, and Im looking forward to the future.I think were really making good steps for her and looking toward the future. Shes a real fighter. At times, shes fighting against you, but in the ring, shes definitely fighting for youso were just trying to meet halfway and get some good results.Sweetnam assumed the lead in the North American League standings after three legs with 32 points. Beat Mndli (SUI) sits second with 25 points, followed by McLain Ward (USA), who has 24 points.Coyle partnered his Lothlorien patrons very promising eight-year-old Nord Face to second in the two-star Grand Prix also. There was no matching the 32.22 registered by JJ Torano (USA) with I Am Inge in the jump-off but a fantastic double clear and a speed time of 33.37 was an impressive return.The Longines Global Champions Tour moved to Cairo and on Friday, Cian OConnor and Denis Lynch both made the top five in the days feature 1.55m jump-off class, the former finishing closest to the medals in fourth with Kentucky TN (Karlswood Partners), with his long-time Ireland teammate in his slipstream with Mr. Newman (Parco Sport Horses).Only five combinations went clear first time and Lynch, from Tipperary, was posted for fifth place still 13,600 in prize money as Mr. Newman had a rail down. OConnor, the Co Kildare native based for a long time in Co Meath, was just 0.15 seconds shy of Daniel Deusser in third when Kentucky again was blemish-free over the jumps, while victory went to Luxembourgs Victor Bettendorf, with Encore Toi du Linon.On Saturday, Bertram Allen grabbed the bronze ribbon in the 1.45m speed class, Aloga Stables impressive nine-year-old Huricane de Champloue zipping around the ring in 65.88.It was a strong effort by the stallion son of Cornet Obolensky and his Wexford connections will have been very pleased to finish so strongly, with victory going to Germanys Max Weishaupt, with Cosmo von Imhoff.The Andaluca October Tour kicked off In Vejer de la Frontera and four-star fare began with Frano Derwin, from Co Westmeath, guiding his own Parvati Aeg to fourth.The recent winners were fast and flawless in Thursdays 1.50m speed class In the Don Antonio Grass Arena, only eight-hundredths of a second short of the bronze medal and 0.14 shy of second, in a class won comfortably by more than three seconds by Germanys David Will with the eight-year-old gelding DSP King George.On Sunday, Co Down athlete Alex Finney guided Newberry Cleverleaf, owned by her mother Jean, to third in the 1.45m speed class, doing fantastically at this level.The duo were magnificent over the 16 jumping efforts and took some tight turns into the bargain, 69.50 won by Rogier Linssen (NED) and Moneypenny in the Hickstead Grass Arena.At the two-star show in Tryon, North Carolina, Kilkenny rider Richie Moloney and Daisycutter (Equinimity) secured top honours in Fridays 1.45m Speed Stake, being one of only two pairings to manage to leave all the obstacles intact and of those, being almost five seconds quicker, stopping the clock in 74.07 to cruise to victory.Sentower Park in Belgium transitioned to indoor fare last week and Michael Duffy posted an impressive double clear with Camina Z (Sportpferde Kuck Gb R) to garner runner-up prize money in the Grand Prix at the two-star show on Sunday, guiding the nine-year-old to a time of 38.30 in the decisive round.That was enough to see off four of the other five returning combos, but finding just one too good in Wilm Vermeir (BEL) and Jonkheer VanT Veldhoven.On Sunday In Lige, a pair of Duffys fellow Galwegians filled two of the three podium berths in two-star Grand Prix.Loughreas Daniel McAlinden and Count Mein (Jersey Kuijpers & Sea Horse) were third with a double clear and jump-off time of 37.01 but Athenry pilot Thomas OBrien and Vario 7 (Yvette OBrien) were much quicker, stopping the clock in 34.90, which was just a quarter of a second off the time set by Belgiums Lauranne Spits, with Sjefke van dAbelendreef.BREEDINGCLONTERM OBOLENSKY (ISH) 2016 stallion by Cornet Obolensky (BWP) out of She Has The Lux (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Breeder: Brian Duff, Ashbourne, Co. Meath. Owner: Oliver Raymond Glancy. Rider: Conor Swail (IRL).Photo creditsConor Swail: Otomi Grand Prix/Oscar MujicaDaniel Coyle/Shane Sweetnam: Erin Gilmore Photography, except for Coyle and Farrel in the Grand Prix which is FEI/Shannon BrinkmanThe post Super Swail masterful in Mexico appeared first on .

The UK finishes the season with Irish bred horses having been on top at all levels. A great effort from all involved.A good showing at Pau with 9 finishers in what was clearly a tough event to finish the 5* season.See below the up-to-date results for this week.Les 5 Etoiles de Pau International 5* (FRA) 22nd 25th October 2026CCI 5*2nd Its Cooley Time (ISH)[was ESI Calypso] 2015 gelding by Quality Time (HOLST) out of Arabella (ISH) by Heartbreaker (KWPN). Breeder: Ennisnag Stud (Kilkenny). Rider: Bubby Upton (GBR) 29.3, 0, 3.6 = 32.96th Piltown Concorde (ISH) 2016 gelding by Royal Concord (ISH) out of Piltown Flighty (ISH) by Errigal Flight (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Patrick Doddy. Rider: Lizzie Baugh (GBR) 35.8, 0, 8.0 = 43.8.Other Irish Bred Finishers:13th Mister Big Ears (ISH)[TIH] 2015 gelding by Cruisings Micky Finn (ISH)[TIH] out of Coevers Frankford (ISH)[TIH] by Coevers Diamond Boy (ISH). Breeder: Michael Byrne. Rider: Sam Ecroyd (GBR) 54.314th Carpo Vivendi (ISH) 2016 gelding by ARS Vivendi (HOLST) out of Heather Cool (ISH)[TIH] by Cougar (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Kevin Barry. Rider: Jack Pinkney (GBR) 59.617th MHS Seventeen (ISH) 2013 gelding by Callahan (HANN) out of MHS Dancing Queen (ISH) by Quidam Junior I (KWPN). Breeder: Mary Brennan (Kilkenny). Rider: Rosalind Canter (GBR) 71.921st Cooley Foxtrot (ISH)[was Cruise Billerough] 2014 gelding by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD) out of Cruise Grove (ISH)[TIH] by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Sean Jones (Clare). Rider: Andrew Downes (GBR) 84.725th Ballinaguilkey Fortunus (ISH) 2011 gelding by Heritage Fortunus (HANN) out of Abbey Emerald [ISH] by Positively (TB). Breeder: Pam Walshe (Carlow). Rider: Anthony Clark (GBR) 108.727th Cooley and Co (ISH)[was Maximum Max KEC] 2014 gelding by KEC Maximum Joe (WESTF) out of Doonbridge Datus (ISH) by Aldatus Z (OLD). Breeder: Dan Hickey (Cork) Rider: Rafael Losano (BRA) 120.929th Cash In Hand (ISH)[TIH] 2013 gelding by Saarshan (TB) out of Toorphelim Lady (AID) by Carrabawn View (ID). Breeder: John Gillivan (Westmeath). Rider: Noor Slaoui (MAR) 121.7.Bicton International (GBR) 22nd 25th October 2026CCI 3* Short Sec C2nd Altitu (ISH) 2015 gelding by Orestus (KWPN) out of Happy Choice (SWB) by Aram (KWPN). Breeder: Seamus Carew (Tipperary). Rider: Patrick Whelan (IRL) 31.9, 0, 1.6 = 33.53rd Coolaw Mr Duke (ISH) 2018 gelding by Dignified Vant Zorgvliet (BWP) out of Coolaw Lady Rose (ISH) by Kiltealy Silver (ID). Breeder: Cathy Roche. Rider: Patrick Whelan (IRL) 34.4, 0, 0.4 = 34.84th Kief Rhapsody of Belline (ISH) 2018 gelding by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Lissangle Luz the Buisiness (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Breeder: Kieran Fahey. Rider: Austin OConnor (IRL) 30.6, 0, 5.6 = 36.25th Fernhill Kankan (unk) 2015 mare OIO. Rider: Shoto Kusumoto (JPN) 31.0, 0, 6.4 = 37.47th Kilcannon Oreo (ISH) -2018 gelding by Vittorio (HOLST) out of Orlana (KWPN) by Celano (HOLST). Breeder: Gretta Woods. Rider: Louisa Lockwood (GBR) 34.9, 0, 6.0 = 40.9.CCI 2* Long Sec A3rd Poulaphouca (ISH) 2020 mare by Pointilliste (TB) out of Slyguff Rubys Keeps (ISH) by Master Imp (TB). Breeder: Barbara Hatton. Rider: Aoife Clark (IRL) 30.4, 0, 0.0 = 30.46th Polly Can Do (ISH) 2020 mare by Hiello (KWPN) out of Polly Cailin (TB) by Zagreb (TB). Breeder: John Gahan. Rider: Louisa Lockwood (GBR) 31.7, 0, 0.0 = 31.710th Classicals Westcoastcooler (ISH) 2012 gelding by West Coast Cavalier (ISH) out of Greybrook Sasha (ISH) by Ruaille Buaille Bui (CP). Breeder: Ray Murphy. Rider: Vickey Browne-Cole (GBR) 31.4, 0, 2.8 =34.2.CCI 2* Short Sec B3rd Monbeg Manhattan (ISH) 2019 gelding by Jardonnay VDL (KWPN) out of Manhattans Little Angel (ISH) by Manhattan (KWPN). Breeder: Desmond McDonnell. Rider: Quidley Kellermann (USA) 30.0, 0, 0.0 = 30.04th HHS Miss B (ISH) 2019 mare by Duel De HSP (SSW) out of Miss Belgium (BWP) by Der Senaat 111 (BWP), Breeder: Marion Hughes. Rider: Dani Stewart-Richardson (GBR) 30.6, 0, 0.0 = 30.6.Tedworth One Day Event (GBR) 24th 25th October 2026Open Novice Sec N2nd Dolmen Debenture (ISH) 2014 gelding by Royal Concorde [ISH] out of One for Ber (TB)[IRL] by Flemensfirth (TB). Breeder: Jack Murphy. Rider: Holly Law (GBR) 30.3, 0, 0.0 = 30.36th All Over at Dawn (ISH)[TIH] 2016 gelding by Rainstown Lad (ISH) out of Maye (ID) by Huntingfield Rebel (ID). Breeder: Paul Walsh. Rider: Sally Hancock (GBR) 34.8, 12, 1.6 = 48.49th Capriarney (ISH) 2018 gelding by Capri Van Overis Z (ZANG) out of Aharney Lass (ISH) by Puissance (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Killian Dunne. Rider: Emma Shaw (GBR) 32.3, 0, 30.0 = 62.3.Open Novice Under 18 Sec O1st Shannondale Gold Rush (ISH) 2012 gelding by Shannondale Sarco St Ghyvan (BEWB) out of Clune Clover (ISH)[TIH] by French Buffet (TB). Breeder: Pat Madigan (Clare). Rider: Cecily Bradford (GBR) 32.3, 0, 0.0 = 32.32nd Direct Ballytarsna Ducarel (ISH)[was Ballytarsna Du Carel] 2009 gelding by Harlequin du Carel (SF) out of Errigal Temptress [ISH] by Errigal Flight (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Hugh & Philip Cass (Laois). Rider: Ila Wingrove (GBR) 34.5, 0, 0.0 = 34.53rd Speaks Volumes (ISH) 2012 gelding by ARS Vivendi (HOLST) out of Douglas Royale (ISH) by ARD VDL Douglas (KWPN). Breeder: John Carey (Tipperary). Rider: Fora Cheney (GBR) 30.0, 4, 2.8 = 36.85th Toberdane Lunar Expresso (ISH) 2018 gelding by Premier Sport (ISH) out of Moonbeam (AES) by Balou de Rouet (OLD). Breeder: Padraig Arthur. Rider: Beth Hobden (GBR) 37.3, 8, 1.2 = 46.57th Tullibards Cloneenagh Ted (CP)[was Cloneenagh Ted] 2016 stallion by Cloonaveigh Cisco (CP) out of Cloneenagh Windy (CP) by Oisin (CP). Breeder Sean Meaney. Rider: Eloise Hawtin (GBR) 41.5, 8, 2.8 = 52.3.Novice Sec L2nd CFH Farewell Rebel (ISH) 2018 gelding by Adieu Z (ZANG) out of Lisreagh Rebel (ISH)[TIH] by Rich Rebel (TB). Breeder: Seamus Carey. Rider: Lauren Kilpatrick (GBR) 32.8, 0, 0.8 = 33.64th Tek Time Captain Cruise (ISH)[TIH] 2019 gelding by CC Captain Cruise (ISH)[TIH] out of Robeen Rose (ID) by Clew Bay Bouncer (ID). Breeder: Peter McHugh. Rider: Indie Vaughan-Jones (GBR) 33.0, 0, 1.6 = 34.66th Coirban Prince (ISH) 2020 gelding by For Kinmar Hero Z (ZANG) out of Coirban Lady Lux (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Breeder: Ciara Marron. Rider: Ben Way (GBR) 36.0, 0, 0.0 = 36.08th Kilbunny Eisteach (ISH) 2016 gelding by Kilbunny Blue (ISH) out of Killbunny MV (ISH) by ARS Vivendi (HOLST). Breeder: Charmaine Senior. Rider: Laura Erith (GBR) 29.0, 0, 8.8 = 37.8.Novice Sec M3rd Watermill Orla (ISH) 2018 mare by Watermill Swatch (TB) out of Newton Bay (ISH) by Ballygill Lad (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Martin McDermott. Rider: Megan Brice (GBR) 30.3, 0, 0.0 = 30.35th Kilballyboy Encore (ISH)[TIH] 2016 gelding by Tajraasi (TB) out of Silver Sheeba (ISH)[TIH] by Fast Silver (ID). Breeder: Sean Beston. Rider: Magan Brice (GBR) 28.5, 0, 4.8 = 33.38th The Bizzness (ISH) 2019 mare by Ascalon (TB) out of Fados Bewick (ISH) by Tinarana Goldwave (HANN). Breeder: Hiram Wood Hennessy. Rider: Alice Hallows (GBR) 33.0, 0, 4.0 = 37.0.Bouckaert International and Horse Trials (USA) 22nd 25th October 2026CCI 4* Short2nd Fernhill Esmerelda (ISH)[was Esmerelda P] 2017 mare by Emerald Vant Ruyterhof (BWP) out of Coralista (ISH) by Corland (HOLST). Breeder: Gemma Stack & Anna Dunne Purcell. Rider: Jonathan Holling (USA) 37.0, 0, 18.4 = 55.53rd P.S. I Love You (ISH)[was PS I Love You 2] 2016 gelding by FSS Correlli Bravo (ISH) out of Woodmount Queen (ISH)[TIH] by Crannagh Hero (ID). Breeder: Kevin Dooley. Rider: Alexandra Knowles (USA) 37.3, 0, 20.0 = 57.35th MRF Qwlkstep (ISH) 2017 gelding by Metropole (KWPN) out of Silver Comet (TB)[IRL] by Exit to Nowhere (TB). Breeder: Mike Comerford. Rider: Katie Malensek (CAN) 36.1, 5.2, 27.2 = 68.5.CCI 3* Short3rd HSH Marshall (ISH)(was Poynstown Marshall) 2016 gelding by Future Trend (OLD) out of Poynstown Queen (ISH) by Olympix Lux (KWPN). Breeder: Paula Widger. Rider: Karl Slezak (CAN) 30.0, 4, 5.6 = 39.64th Duke of Rock (ISH)[TIH] 2018 gelding by Ardcolum Duke (ISH)[TIH] out of Rock Back (TB)[IRL] by Bob Black (TB). Breeder Barbara Hanna. Rider: Laura Vello (USA) 32.3, 0, 7.6 = 39.67th Glen Future (ISH) 2019 mare by Future Trend (OLD) out of Future Girl (ISH) by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD). Breeder: Anthony Gill. Rider: Daniel Clasing (USA) 33.3, 0, 10.8 = 44.110th GoldenEye 007 (ISH)[was Rosco Ranger] 2018 gelding by Goodluck VDL (KWPN) out of Cuffesgrange Sensation (ISH) by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD). Breeder: Joe Connaughton. Rider: Heather Bush (USA) 33.2, 0, 20.4 = 53.6.CCI 3* Under 25 Short2nd HSH Henry (ISH)[was Twizzler] 2017 gelding by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Silverfoot (TB) by Bravefoot (TB). Breeder: Elizabeth Murphy. Rider: Katelyn Smith (USA) 34.0, 8, 0.0 = 42.04th Fernhill Final Cavalier (ISH)[was Greenacres Cavalier Boy] 2014 gelding by Cavalier Royale (HOLST) out of Greenacres Quality (ISH) by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD). Breeder: Michael Callery. Rider: Liesel Fazekas (USA) 35.6, 12, 20.4 = 68.0.CCI 2* Short3rd Global Karina (ISH) 2017 mare by Kannan (KWPN) out of Arina (KWPN) by Crown Z (ZANG). Breeder: Boleybawn Horses Ltd. Rider: Sara Kozumplik (USA) 33.6, 0, 0.0 = 33.64th Fernhill Cool Confection (ISH)(was Fernhill Cool Connection) 2017 gelding by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Princess Cool Diamond (ISH)[TIH] by Coolcorron Cool Diamond (ISH). Breeder: John McManus. Rider: Madison Temkin (USA) 34.1, 0, 0.0 = 34.15th Belline Foodys Out of the Blue (ISH) 2018 gelding by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Foodys Two an Two (ISH)[TIH] by Gentle Diamond (ID). Breeder: Frances Foody. Rider: Elisa Wallace (USA) 32.6, 0, 4.0 = 36.6.CCI 2* Under 25 Short1st Ardeo Dance Monkey (ISH) 2017 gelding by Setter (KWPN) out of Kingstona (LAT) by Koperniks (HOLST). Breeder: Etter Sportpferde AG. Rider: Ella Hubert (USA) 36.1, 0, 0.0 = 36.13rd Hacketts Cross (ISH)[TIH] 2013 gelding by Coroner (TB) out of Bellews Beauty (AID) by Welcome Diamond (ID). Breeder: Anthony Glavin. Rider: Jordan Reyes (HON) 42.2, 0, 19.2 = 61.4.CCI 1* Short1st Cooley All In (ISH) 2018 gelding by Chello III VDL (HOLST) out of Lady Glider (ISH) by Kroongraaf (KWPN). Breeder: Martin Duffy. Rider: Susan Plumb (USA) 29.9, 0, 0.0 = 29.93rd Fernhill Pop Ice (ISH) 2020 gelding by Kassanov Hero B Z (ZANG) out of DS Aphrodite (AES) by Darrara Achilles (ISH). Breeder: Dermot OBrien. Rider: Andrea Mendoza Kruger (GTM) 34.5, 12, 11.6 = 58.1.CCI 1* Under 25 Short1st Cooley Vita (ISH)[was Dolmen Dolce Vita] 2015 mare by Quantino (HOLST) out of Dolmen Denial (ISH) by Ricardo Z (ZANG). Breeder: Jack Murphy. Rider: Nicole Nair (USA) 36.2, 0, 43.6 = 79.8.Only 1 entered.Open Intermediate2nd Monbeg Downtown (ISH) 2016 gelding by Acorad 3 (OLD) out of HHS Clo Jo (ISH)[TIH] by Clover Echo (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Thomas A Hughes. Rider: Andre Parro (BRA) 32.7, 0, 18.4 = 51.14th Super Ball (ISH)[was Excel Super Ball] 2017 gelding by Beach Ball (ISH) out of Glenanagh Cavalier (ISH) by HHS BR Charlton (ISH). Breeder: Garnett Ferry. Rider: Pippa Moon (USA) 37.1, 0, 20.4 = 57.5.Open Preliminary10th Atty M (ISH) 2020 mare by Luidam (KWPN) out of HHS Athena (ISH) by Heritage Fortunus (HANN). Breeder: Susanne Macken. Rider: Sharonn Lilley (USA) 43.2, 0, 12.4 = 55.6.Preliminary Rider1st Excel Star Vero Amore (ISH)[was Leestone Vigovol] 2016 gelding by Vigo DArsouilles (BWP) out of Ultiem V (KWPN) by Voltaire (HANN). Breeder: John McKibbin. Rider: Lula Carney (USA) 32.1, 4, 2.4 = 38.5Open Modified10th Royal Mint (ISH) 2017 mare by KEC Maximum Joe (WESTF) out of Tillula (ISH) by Cavalier Royale (HOLST). Breeder: Ralph Morgan. Rider: Matthew Ulmer (USA) 31.5, 8, 10.0 = 49.5.Horse Park of New Jersey Fall Horse Trials (USA) 17th 18th October 2026Open Preliminary A2nd Dunedin LB Muze (ISH) 2020 gelding by Im Special de Muze (BEP) out of Arkette (ISH) by Arko (OLD). Breeder: Una Flynn. Rider: Hayley Frielick (AUS) 29.2, 4, 13.2 = 46.45th Sneaking Suspicion (ISH)(was HSH Candy Deluxe) 2017 gelding by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Cloonbarry All Star (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Breeder: Jean Gilligan. Rider: Dominic Schramm (AUS) 35.8, 0, 24.2 = 60.0.Open Preliminary B1st Quantum Cooley (ISH) 2010 mare by Iroko (WESTF) out of Chloes Gold (WNTR) by Morgangold Major (ZWEI). Breeder: Fiona Kelly. Rider: Fylicia Barr (USA) 27.9, 0.4, 4.8 = 33.14th Rockabilly (ISH)[was Carlingford Rockabilly] 2017 gelding by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD) out of Black Cat (ISH) by Nigrasine (TB). Breeder: Brian Clinghan. Rider: Madeline Scott (USA) 30.5, 0, 12.0 = 42.56th B.E. Cointreau (ISH)[was Milchem MBF] 2018 gelding by Goodluck VDL (KWPN) out of Milchem Dreaming (ISH) by Ramon (KWPN). Breeder: RC Equine Ltd. Rider: Amanda Beale Clement (CAN) 30.0, 4, 18.0 = 52.0.Open Modified1st Excel Etoile Zulu (ISH) 2020 gelding by Kassanova Hero B Z (ZANG) out of Cornawall Diamond Lilly (ISH) by Mohill Cavalier Clover (ISH). Breeder: Sarah Greenham. Rider: Bradley Champagne (CAN) 28.8, 0, 4.8 = 33.62nd Dunedin LB Highlight (ISH)(was Sportsfield Highlight) 2021 gelding by Orestus (KWPN) out of Cafre Highlight (ISH) by Limmerick (HOLST). Breeder: Judith Porter. Rider: Haley Frielicxk (AUS) 29.5, 0, 8.4 = 37.98th Excel Star Jupiter (ISH) 2017 gelding by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD) out of Judys Gift (TB) by Presenting (TB). Breeder: Timothy Holland. Rider: Seth Beaver (USA) 39.8, 4, 8.8 = 52.69th Carrick Kilderrys Queen (ISH) 2016 mare by Carrick Kilderrys Diamond (ISH) out of Loyal Lass (ISH) by Limmerick (HOLST). Breeder: Tom Jones. Rider: Dawn Nelson (USA) 42.8, 4, 10.4 = 57.2.Morghengo International (ITA 15th 18th October 2026CCI 4* Short5th Tradewinds Alfredo (unk)[was Rice Crispie] 2013 gelding by Barnaby Flight (ISH)[TIH] out of Danielles Girl (unk). Breeder: Patrick Byrne (Carlow). Rider: Andrea Docomo (ITA) 41.3, 14.8, 44.0 = 100.1CCI 3* Short2nd GRC Shiraz (ISH) 2012 gelding by VDL Arkanas (KWPN) out of Loughnavatta Pearl (ISH)[TIH] by Flagmount King (ID). Breeder: Rory Costigan (Tipperary). Rider: Frederico Sacchetti (ITA) 38.7, 0, 6.4 = 45.1CCI s* Short8th Not a Bother (ISH) 2017 mare by Lancelot (KWPN) out of Ballylean Craft (ISH)[TIH] by Warcraft (TB). Breeder: Paddy Donnellan. Rider: Andrea Dodimo (ITA) 36.4, 5.6, 19.2 = 61.29th Kingsborough Danica (ISH) 2016 gelding by Kingsborough Gladstone (ISH) out of The Mollylou (TB) by Scibano (TB). Breeder: Joseph Gray. Rider: Pietro Majolino (ITA) 30.6, 9.2, 24.8 = 64.6.CCI 1* Intro4th Tykillen Rockstar (ISH) 2020 gelding by Dignified Vant Zorgvlietr (BWP) out of Ballymurphy Queen (ISH)[TIH] by Master Imp. Breeder: Ciara Kinsella. Rider: Andrea Erne (SUI) 35.0, 0, 9.6 = 44.6.Perote International (MEX) 16th 18th October 2026CCI 3* Long7th Balanca SDN (ISH)[was Daleston Castlebar HFS] 2013 gelding by Clover Echo (ISH)[TIH] out of Bornacoola (ISH) by Cavalier Royale (HOLST). Breeder: Robert Fisk. Rider: Bischel Hernandez Sanchez (MEX) 36.1, 4, 11.2 = 51.3.Kronenberg International (NED) 22nd 25th October 2026CCI 2* Short5th Champagne Silver Nova (ISH) 2017 gelding by Cappa Cassanova (ID) out of Derry Silver Lass (ISH). Breeder: Barry Hayes. Rider: Maddison Peries (IRL) 33.3, 4.4, 0.0 = 37.7.These results have been provided to Horse Sport Ireland by Charlie Ripman.These results are funded by Horse Sport Ireland.The post ISH on the podium in all 12 CCIs in the UK, France and the USA appeared first on .

HSI has received 5801 applications and issued 3771 completed applications for foals born in 2026.5801 pedigree applications have had their foal kit sent to the applicant, with the remaining kits issued imminently.It is important to note that, to date, 1192 foal kits have not been yet returned from breeders to HSI for pedigree applications, which is 21 per cent of all applications.Of the 4609 applications who have returned their foal kits to HSI, 3771 have been completed and the passport issued, and 226 are currently undergoing quality control checks, while the remaining 612 applications DNA samples are currently with the laboratory for analysis.Of the 3997 passport applications, where the DNA samples have been returned to HSI from the laboratory, 94 per cent are processed and complete, totalling 3771.The remaining applications are pending QC checks before being completed, and the team is working hard to complete them imminently.In HSIs Customer Service Department, 248 calls were received this week, of which 83 per cent were answered, totalling 207.The post Updated figures of passport applications processed on Horse Source October 23rd, 2026 appeared first on .

Irish Sport Horse James Kann Cruz has been ranked No. 2 in the world in the 2026 World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses (WBFSH) jumping rankings, capping a remarkable season for the 13-year-old gelding and providing another outstanding endorsement of Irish Sport Horse breeding.Partnered by Corks Shane Sweetnam, ranked the worlds number three rider, James Kann Cruz has been one of the worlds leading jumping horses throughout 2026, with a landmark Rolex Grand Prix victory at Falsterbo followed by a top-15 finish at the FEI World Jumping Championships in Aachen.Bred in Galway by Patrick Connolly, James Kann Cruz is by the internationally renowned stallion Kannan (KWPN) out of the Irish Sport Horse mare CSF Telly Cruz (ISH), by the legendary Irish Sport Horse sire Cruising (ISH).His No. 2 position in the final WBFSH rankings is a significant achievement for Connolly and represents another major success story for the Irish Sport Horse studbook on the international stage.The defining moment of James Kann Cruzs 2026 season came in July when he and Sweetnam claimed victory in the 500,000 Rolex Grand Prix of Falsterbo in Sweden.Last to jump in the 14-horse jump-off, the Irish combination produced a brilliant clear in 37.68 seconds to take the prestigious five-star Grand Prix by almost a second from Germanys Richard Vogel and Cloudio.For breeder Patrick Connolly, it was a landmark achievement for a horse bred at home and another powerful demonstration of the quality of Irish breeding at the highest level of international jumping. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Horse Sport Ireland (@horsesportireland)James Kann Cruz carried his outstanding form into the FEI World Jumping Championships in Aachen in August, where he and Sweetnam produced a series of impressive performances against the worlds best combinations.The pair were Irelands only combination to qualify for the individual final, progressing from an original field of 165 horses and riders into the top 25.They finished 15th individually, with James Kann Cruz jumping brilliantly throughout the championship before an unfortunate rail at the final vertical in the opening round of the individual final left them on 10.28 penalties.His pedigree is particularly significant, with CSF Telly Cruz herself an Irish Sport Horse mare by Cruising. The Connolly familys breeding programme has therefore produced a horse that has progressed from Irish breeding stock to become one of the leading jumping horses in the world.His achievements also add to the strong representation of the Irish Sport Horse among the worlds leading horses. In the WBFSH rankings published at the end of May, James Kann Cruz was already ranked fifth individually, while the Irish Sport Horse studbook was seventh in the world.His subsequent performances through the summer have now seen him rise to No. 2 in the final 2026 world ranking.From his Galway breeding to the biggest arenas in international show jumping, James Kann Cruz has become an outstanding example of the ability of Irish-bred horses to perform consistently at the very pinnacle of the sport.James Kann Cruz is owned by Gizmo Partners LLC and Shane Sweetnam.The post James Kann Cruz ranked world number two as new WBSFH rankings published appeared first on .

ISH Studbook tops World Breeding Federation rankings for 2026, while Galway breeder takes individual world title with HSH BlakeThe Irish Sport Horse is once again the leading Eventing horse in the world, with the Irish Sport Horse Studbook (ISH) crowned the 2026 WBFSH Eventing Studbook Ranking winner.The achievement sees the ISH return to number one for the first time since 2023, having finished runner-up in 2024 and 2025, highlighting the extraordinary consistency of Irish breeding at the highest level of international eventing.Adding to the achievement, Justin Burke has been crowned the 2026 WBFSH Eventing Breeder Ranking winner with his Irish Sport Horse HSH Blake.Galway breeder Burkes homebred gelding has been one of the elite performers of the international eventing season, producing a series of outstanding performances with American rider Caroline Pamukcu.The 2015 gelding, by Tolan R out of Doughiska Lass (ISH) by Kannan, has enjoyed an exceptional season which included a runner-up finish at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5-L, before going on to finish third at the Defender Burghley Horse Trials CCI5-L. He also represented the United States at the FEI Eventing World Championships in Aachen, helping them to win a team bronze medal.HSH Blake was one of the six horses whose performances propelled the Irish Sport Horse Studbook to the top of the 2026 WBFSH Eventing Studbook Rankings.The ISH accumulated 1,454 points, with all six contributing horses featuring prominently in the individual world rankings:HSH Blake: 315 pointsCooley Park Muze: 262 pointsCooley Nutcracker: 235 pointsBrookfield Quality: 215 pointsTullabeg Platinum: 214 pointsShanroe Cooley: 213 pointsCaroline Pamucku with HSH Blake dare one of the worlds leading Eventing combinations. Copyright FEI/Shannon BrinkmanThe result represents another remarkable chapter in the history of the Irish Sport Horse, which has been the worlds benchmark eventing studbook for much of the WBFSH rankings history.The ISHs most recent period of dominance saw it reclaim the title in 2022, moving from third place in 2021 to number one, before successfully defending the title in 2023. In 2023, the ISH won with 1,318 points, ahead of Selle Franais and KWPN.After finishing second in 2024 and 2025, the Irish Sport Horse has now returned to the summit in emphatic fashion.The 2026 result is particularly significant because of the depth of Irish-bred representation behind the final score. The WBFSH Studbook Rankings are calculated using the performances of the top six horses from each studbook, meaning the ISH victory is a reflection not of one individual horse but of the strength of Irish breeding across the very highest levels of the sport.Horse Sport Ireland Head of Breeding, Innovation and Development, Dr. Sonja Egan, said:To see the Irish Sport Horse back at number one in the world is a tremendous achievement and one that we should all be incredibly proud of.The WBFSH rankings are one of the most important measures of success in international sport horse breeding and to finish at the top of the Eventing Studbook rankings reflects the extraordinary work of Irish breeders over generations.What makes this result particularly special is the depth behind it as six Irish Sport Horses have combined to deliver the title, with HSH Blake leading the way.And for Justin Burke to be recognised as the worlds leading Eventing breeder is an outstanding achievement. HSH Blake has enjoyed an exceptional season at the very highest level and Justin deserves enormous credit for producing a horse capable of competing on the world stage.Congratulations to Justin and to all the breeders whose horses have contributed to this fantastic result. It is another powerful demonstration of the quality, consistency and international impact of Irish Sport Horse breeding.I am delighted that the Irish Sport Horse studbook is able to recognise his achievements at the WBFSH General Assembly in Dublin this year.The post Irish Sport Horse reclaims world number one spot as Justin Burke crowned top WBFSH Eventing breeder appeared first on .