The Underwriting Exchange Irish Senior Show Jumping Team is set to make their mark as they kick off the CSIO5* Nations Cup in Aachen tomorrow evening. Drawn to jump first among ten nations, the team is ready to showcase their skills in this prestigious event.

High Performance Show Jumping Director Michael Blake has assembled a formidable quartet for this competition. The team features Denis Lynch riding Vistogrand, Bertram Allen with Pacino Amiro (ISH), Shane Sweetnam on James Kann Cruz (ISH), and Cian O’Connor aboard Fancy De Kergane. This event marks their final five-star outing before the highly anticipated Paris Olympics.

The Irish Senior team has been in exceptional form throughout the season, consistently demonstrating their prowess and determination. Their stellar performances have positioned them at the top of the Longines League of Nations Series Standings, with the final showdown set for Barcelona in October.

Blake expressed his enthusiasm and confidence in the team, saying, “Aachen is an incredible venue, and I’m thrilled to be here with these four combinations. The horses have settled in well and are ready to compete. Our riders are world-class, and they’re on horses that have proven their capability to excel, making this an exciting competition.”

Despite the challenging draw, Blake remains optimistic. “The draw hasn’t been particularly favorable, but with Denis Lynch’s extensive experience, I’m confident he will set a strong tone for the team. It promises to be an exhilarating Nations Cup,” he added.

The Underwriting Exchange Irish Senior Show Jumping Team, listed alphabetically for the CSIO5* Nations Cup in Aachen, includes:

• Bertram Allen with Gary de Cersy or Pacino Amiro (ISH)
• Denis Lynch with Brooklyn Heights, Cordial, or Vistogrand
• Cian O’Connor with Fancy De Kergane, Fermoy, or Maurice
• Shane Sweetnam with James Kann Cruz (ISH), Otis Blue, or RR Combella

As the team prepares to compete on this grand stage, all eyes will be on these talented riders and their exceptional horses.