Lynch ‘interested’ in Beijing spot as Kürten pulls out

SHOW jumper Denis Lynch yesterday said he was interested in competing in the Olympics, but acknowledged the decision is up to the Ireland manager Robert Splaine.

The Tipperary rider, who is on the crest of a wave, made his feelings known after fellow German-based rider Jessica Kürten yesterday said she would not be taking up the individual slot available to Ireland.

“I would be interested in going to the Olympics and so is Thomas Straumann, the owner of my horse Lantinus; that’s what we bought the horse for,” said Lynch. “I’m due to have a chat with Robert to discuss what’s involved. He’s calling the shots.”

Kürten is ranked number two in the world and would have been considered a medal contender. In a statement, she suggested her decision was based on an inability to field her top horses. She said her number one horse Castle Forbes Libertina “has received a well-deserved rest after a busy indoor-season”, while Quibell will be out for four weeks with an injury.

What could have influenced Kürten was the fact she was recently served with a two-month ban by the International Equestrian Federation after a banned medication was found in the horse Castle Forbes Maike last year. She is to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but with the clock running down to the start of the Games, the timing of the hearing would be crucial.

Kürten’s consistency secured the Olympic place for Ireland. However, under the rules it is up to the national federation, Horse Sport Ireland, to decide who would compete in the Games, with the decision ultimately resting with the manager Splaine.

The Corkman yesterday said: “I am now focusing on selecting a horse and rider to fill that place. The reality is that riders need as much notice as possible to prepare for the games so I will be moving to make a decision on this quickly. Horse Sport Ireland have called a press conference for next Tuesday, June 3, and I will announce my decision there.”

Lynch would be an able replacement, having won the grands prix at the first two legs of the Samsung Super League. Last month, he pocketed €100,000 when a winner of the first round of the Global Champions’ Tour in Qatar.