Ireland’s equestrian reputation in tatters again

FOR the second Olympics in a row Ireland’s reputation in world equestrian competition lies in tatters.

It is almost four years since Cian O’Connor was pictured biting his gold medal in Athens in what was seen as a historic achievement.

The 24-year-old and his horse, Waterford Crystal, had gone into the final round of the Olympic final on August 27, 2004, holding four penalty points. The pair performed flawlessly to win the coveted title.