O’Sullivan flying flag for Wicklow in World Equestrian Games

THERE will be a Co. Wicklow representative at the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) World Equestrian Games in the USA.

Bernard O’Sullivan fulfilled his dream when he qualified for the games, which will take place September 10 and 23rd, in Tryon, North Carolina.

50-year old O’Sullivan, who hails from Ballyknockan, sealed his place in late June thanks to his performance in an event in Canada.

O’Sullivan’s event is reining, which is a western riding competition for horses where the riders guide the horses through a precise pattern of circles, spins, and stops. All work is done at cantering or galloping pace.

Hang Ten To Yuma was the name of the horse that O’Sullivan rode as he booked a spot at the FEI Games and speaking after the Canadian event, O’Sullivan commented: “Mission accomplished. It has been a life-long ambition of mine and my family to represent Ireland at this level.

“I’m so grateful to my family and friends for all their support. I can’t thank enough the trainers, owners and clinicians I have the pleasure to work with to achieve this.”

Derek O’Byrne-White, secretary of Horse Sport Ireland sang O’Sullivan’s praises.

“Bernard’s achievements are just amazing given the challenges he had to face.

“Showing in Chile, Australia, and now in Canada on three different horses. Scoring 71.5 and 70 with horses he had such a short time to prepare with.

“In Canada after his qualifying run he went back in with another loan horse in a rookie class and achieved reserve Champion with just 30 minutes familiarisation. It speaks volumes about Bernard’s horsemanship skills.”