On Monday, 10th of April the final players in the revamp of Irish Showjumping were announced by Charles Powell, President of the EFI.

In an impassioned plea to the media to focus on the positives within the sport, Charles Powell said "I must express my sincere thanks to the members of the media here today for their support during what has been a difficult time in the sport. I would urge you to resist the temptation to pick holes in the fabric of the sport. Who did what, and with which, and to whom, is of little importance, we are a small nation with a small equestrian family. We could pursue this pointless and destructive path of
negativity or we could look to the future with renewed optimism,prepare for upcoming challenges with a unity of purpose...."

Powell noted that last years difficulties saw the focus removed from the steady rise of Jessica Kurten through the ranks to achieve top lady rider in the world and the ranking of number 2 in the world - an incredible achievement, which was sadly overlooked for the public brawling which took the media focus - troubles which are now hopefully in the past.

The fully EFI ratified Showjumping managers are now ; Chairman, John Ledingham, Team Manager, Robert Splaine and Advisors, Tommy Brennan and James Kernan.

The four gentlemen now charged with steering Irish Showjumping through a huge year which includes the World Cup Final this month, the Samsung Super League and the World Equestrian Games in August/September are well qualified to hold their roles with results as competitors at top level, Coaching at top level and also as Chef's and Trainers at the top levels - I don't believe four better men could have been chosen to put Irish showjumping back on the rails, working together as team mates - no doubt these men have the respect of the senior international riders and this will make for strong representation in all major competitions.

Charles Powell also pointed out the importance of the financial input received from both government and sponsors when he stated ".....and at this stage I must pay tribute to the superb generosity and support we receive from the Department of Arts Sports and Tourism, and the Irish Sports Council, represented here today by Chairman Ossie Kilenny and Chief Executive John Treacy.
Show jumping is an expensive sport and without Government funding and the significant support of commercial sponsors we simply would not be able to remain at the forefront of the world stage."

Irish showjumping would appear to now be back in the hands of people passionate about the sport who have no motivation other than seeing Ireland at the top of showjumping - they will no doubt give the riders confidence and encourage them to use their strengths and strengthen their weaknesses - the EFI Jumping Committee is made up of four strong men who want nothing less than success for Ireland!

We look forward to bringing the news of Jessica Kurten at the World Cup Final direct to you as the competitions progress on a daily basis.