Optimism high in Irish camp
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.
Giving it credence is the Irish victory last month in the German Nations Cup, a competition considered to be at championship level.
O’Connor has no doubt that winning the German title was a true reflection of the squad’s potential.
“Absolutely, it shows what we can do. It is difficult to have your best four riders and four horses on same day, but Aachen proved that, when we do, we can beat the best in the world. It’s all about timing.”
The Meath-based rider was last night, unsurprisingly, named on the team with K Club Lady by manager Robert Splaine, alongside pathfinder Billy Twomey (Tinka’s Serenade), Dermott Lennon (Hallmark Elite) and anchorman Denis Lynch (Nabab’s Son), with Ireland drawn fifth of the nine teams.
O’Connor is confident K Club Lady is in peak form following her double clear in Germany.
“I’ve minded the horse since Aachen. She deserved a break and I have been setting her up for this. This is always a big goal of mine. It is also especially important for her owner Michael Smurfit, as the horse was only bought in April and now to be competing for Ireland on Aga Khan day is almost unheard of. While we won in Aachen, we will not be shouting too much, but we are expecting a good performance,” said O’Connor.
It may have become a bit of a cant for O’Connor to highlight the importance of Dublin for Irish riders, but it’s understandable for an event that is lauded worldwide.
“Obviously to be on the Irish team is what it’s all about for any rider, even more so, when are you based in Ireland, like I am. It is a showcase and an opportunity to promote myself and my business,” he said.
As for the main danger, O’Connor was unequivocal in pointing to “France” but he quickly adds “the Brits too”, which is no surprise, following their win last week in Hickstead.
The former have already claimed the Meydan Series title, but the British will also be aiming to go out with a bang ahead of next month’s World Equestrian Games.
In many respects, the real battle will be at the other end of the leaderboard, as no less than four of the 10 countries are to be relegated. The Spaniards, newcomers this year, are last to go in today’s competition, providing them with a little assistance as they bid to stave off a late bid by a trio in the relegation zone, Switzerland, Sweden or the Netherlands.
