Optimism high in Irish camp

SHOW jumper Cian O’Connor is not short of confidence, but he is sure it is well placed in expecting a good outcome for Ireland in today’s nations cup at the Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show.

Ireland has not had its name placed on the Aga Khan Trophy winners list since 2004, a major reason being the lack of horsepower to match the unquestionable skills of the country’s riders.

While there is always a sense that expectation triumphs over reality for show jumping aficionados when Dublin comes around, this time, it could be appropriate.