The nominations for Irish International Rider of the Year 2005 are four exceptional riders who have all had extraordinary results this year.

For many the decision of who to vote for is not easy when all four are so worthy - to try and help people make a decision we have put together a small profile on each riders year:

JESSICA KURTEN currently ranked No. 6
The 36 year old County Antrim rider, based in Germany with her husband, Jessica has put Ireland into the Top 10 - a feat which we believe hasn't happened for 10 years when Peter Charles was in that position. Jessica represented Ireland at the World Cup Final in April this year and was a member of the Irish Team at the European Championships this year. Jessica was also one of a small number of elite riders invited to Las Vegas last month as the only Irish representative for the 1 million dollar spectacular where she did exceptionally well.

BILLY TWOMEY currently ranked No.55
Born in Cork, the 28 year old is based in Cheshire, England and has competed in three Samsung Super League Nations Cups winning the hearts of many as he seems to always be able to pull out the round Ireland needs as the anchorman - his cool attitude is something every team needs and Billy seems to be able to keep his head, even when there is a riot going on around him.

DERMOTT LENNON currently ranked No. 92
The current World Champion was born in County Down and is currently based in the Netherlands.
At 36 years of age he has an impressive cv and this year has competed in two Samsung Super League Nations Cups and was a member of the Irish European Championships Team for 2005. This quietly spoken rider is considered by many to be under rated due to his quiet nature - perhaps a little more notice should be taken of this quiet achiever who is after all the reigning World Champion.

SHANE BREEN currently ranked No. 115
This rider's entrance into international competition has been spectacular to say the least - he has formed a formidable partnership with the imposing grey gelding World Cruise and they have impressed the showjumping fraternity with their accuracy and consistency as a partnership. Shane and World Cruise were members of three Samsung Super League Nations Cups Teams and they will only get stronger the longer the partnership continues.

To cast your vote text the first name of the rider you are nominating to 53307. The winner of this prestigious award will be announced at the Showjumpers Ball on Saturday 26th November, 2005 at Kilashee House in Naas, County Kildare.

For all the information on the Ball click here