Irish glory in showjumping Europeans, GBR miss out
Ireland took team gold and individual bronze in Sweden, while the British riders were both out before the end
TEAM gold and individual bronze capped a week of strong performances for Ireland’s showjumpers at the European Championships in Gothenberg, Sweden (23-27 August).
The team victory was
Ireland’s first European showjumping medal since they won team gold in 2001, with Cian O’Connor adding an individual bronze to the tally with Good Luck in Sunday’s final.
Ireland was down to three riders in the team competition as Bertram Allen withdrew Hector Van D’Abdijhoeve after a rider fall in the first round.
But the remaining combinations — Shane Sweetnam (Chaqui Z), Denis Lynch (All
Star 5) and Cian O’Connor (Good Luck) — all pulled out clear rounds to secure the gold.
Home nation Sweden took silver while the bronze medal went to Switzerland.
“The three stallions we had in the final round were all so brave and scopey, so we were quietly confident we could do the business,” said Cian. “It’s made easier when you’re sitting on a horse like Good Luck — he’s an extraordinary animal.”
Individual gold went to Sweden’s Rio 2016 silver medallists Peder Fredricson and H&M All In.
While no Brits completed the competition, Harrie Smolders’ ride Don VHP Z was formerly owned and produced by Brendon
Stud in West Sussex and started his international jumping career with Louise Simpson (née Pavitt).
Britain did not field a team at the championships, instead sending Michael and William Whitaker as individuals.
Unfortunately Michael’s ride Viking was found to be “not quite right” ahead of the first jumping round and was withdrawn.
Meanwhile, William qualified for the individual final aboard Utamaro D’Ecaussines, but together with the stallion’s owners decided that it was not in the horse’s best interests to jump in the final round.
“Along with his owners, we gave it a lot of thought, he had jumped really well all week and physically he’s great, but there is a lot more to play for this year and aged 13 we need to look after him,” said William.
“It was a shame not to carry on but I learned a lot during the week — it was my first senior European Championships and something I have always worked towards.”