Meet the 'ambassadors on horseback' of Ireland's Army Equitation School

Commandant Geoff Curran, originally from Fenor, Co Waterford, exercising Hawthorn Hill at the Army Equitation School. One of Ireland’s great showjumpers, Cmdt Curran has represented Ireland at the Olympics. Picture: Moya Nolan

Cloistered behind high red brick walls in Dublin’s bustling city, an Olympic rider puts a gleaming grey horse through its perfect paces.

Hogwarts-like Victorian towers stretch up into the skyline behind the arena, a magical realm that seems to operate in serene and perfect order, oblivious to the incessant traffic and chaotic city life outside.