EFI backs Irish manager Splaine in jumping row with Kürten

THE Equestrian Federation of Ireland (EFI) Jumping Committee yesterday came out in support of Irish show jumping team manager Robert Splaine in his dispute with rider Jessica Kürten.

A statement said: “With reference to the recent statements made regarding Robert Splaine in the media, the EFI Jumping Committee wishes to state that it fully supports the team manager, and that the selection of horses, riders and teams is done on the basis of results and form. It also believes that Jessica Kürten’s unavailability for both the 2006 Dublin Horse Show and the World Equestrian Games has been her decision.

“The committee was formed to manage the sport of international show jumping for Ireland, and this includes many riders and horses. The committee believes that it cannot suspend its code of practice at the behest of one rider, no matter who that rider might be.”