What an incredible weekend it has been for international showjumping enthusiasts worldwide! We’ve been treated to a splendid showcase of talent and determination. Just as Irish showjumper Shane Sweetnam remarked after contributing to his country’s team silver victory at the European Showjumping Championships this month, “The future is looking brighter than ever for us. World domination is a goal within reach!”

The week’s excitement reached its pinnacle at the Nations Cup Youth Final held in Belgium. Ireland continued to shine, adding yet another gold to their impressive collection, and Great Britain also celebrated their achievements.

In a thrilling display of skill and teamwork at the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Youth Final in Sentower Park, Opglabbeek, Belgium, Ireland’s pony team emerged victorious, securing the coveted team gold. Belgium secured the silver medal, while Great Britain proudly claimed bronze. The Irish team, consisting of Kian Dore (riding Sparkling Lackaghmore Joey), Emily Moloney (accompanied by Lady Crown), Paddy Reape (partnered with Fernando), and James Derwin (mounted on Rincoola Babog), achieved a remarkable score of four. Their exceptional performance included a hat-trick of final clears when the team needed it most.

Irish chef d’equipe Gary Marshall attributed their success to the simple truth that success begets more success. He also emphasized the commitment to training in ponies and the presence of a robust team system back home.

Meanwhile, the British quartet, featuring Izabella Rogers (with Neil 55), Georgia Cooper-Hall (riding Saxton Freedam), Katie Bradburne (accompanied by Ardough Boy), and Madison Seedhouse (partnered with Vaughann De Vuzit), clinched the bronze medal with a commendable team score of 12. Chef d’equipe Clare Whitaker, though acknowledging a bit of bad luck with some four faults, expressed her satisfaction with the team’s performance, especially praising Katie for her excellent debut on the international stage.

Ireland’s juniors also demonstrated their prowess, securing a well-deserved silver medal. The Netherlands clinched the gold in a nail-biting jump-off, with Eoin Brennan (mounted on Eskola M), Stephen Gibbons (accompanied by Cassius Z), James Brennan (riding MHS I’m The One), and Coen Williams (partnered with Conthanja) representing Ireland on the podium. The bronze medal was claimed by the United States in a closely contested battle.

The young rider category witnessed Sweden taking home the gold, outshining Denmark and Belgium on the podium. In the juniors’ competition, the Netherlands continued their winning streak, earning another gold medal. Belgium secured silver, and Italy proudly brought home the bronze.

Indeed, it was a weekend filled with remarkable achievements and thrilling moments in the world of international showjumping, reminding us all that the future holds endless possibilities for these talented athletes.