Being manager ‘not about being popular’, says Splaine

After seven years making sometimes difficult decisions, Robert Splaine is realistic to know his reappointment as Ireland show jumping manager may not be greeted with unanimous acclaim.

The Corkman’s return as team boss was announced by Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) on Wednesday, having convinced the interview panel of his “clear plan” for the team.

No doubt, the panel recalled that Splaine’s decision to select Cian O’Connor ensured Ireland its first Olympic show jumping medal and that Ireland finished third in the FEI Nations Cup League, following wins in Dublin — the first in eight years — and Hickstead. They certainly would have made a strong case for reappointment.