Ireland’s show jumpers had a major win in the Middle East at the weekend winning the opening leg of the 2025 Longines League of Nations™ series.
They ended the day on zero penalty points with not a single fence down across two rounds of Jumping, almost unheard of in international competition on the toughest course around the world.
The host nation of the United Arab Emirates finished in second place on 8 points. Third place went to team France who completed on 12 points in a nail-biting finish.
“It means everything,” said Irish Chef d’Equipe Michael Blake of his team’s win. “We were resilient today.”
“It was astounding,” he added of their seven rides with no rails on the ground. “I’m very proud of my boys.”
“It feels very, very good — I’m not going to lie,” laughed Trevor Breen, returning from a serious injury that required surgery. “It was a long road back. I just had to convince Michael that I was ready. I’m just over the moon that I could deliver.”
Jason Foley was thrilled that things worked out so well with Chedington Hazy Toulana, a brand new partner. “It took a good bit of faith from Michael and the crews at home,” he said.
The League of Nations now moves on to Ocala in the USA en route to the Series Grand Final in Barcelona later in the year.
There was more success in Ocala when Cian O’Connor led home a 1-2-3-4 of Irish riders in the Longines Jumping World Cup™ competition, in front of a sold out World Equestrian Centre crowd.
SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
Keeping you ahead of the game in terms of knowledge and inspiration is part of what we do at Sport for Business. Click on the link below to find out more and get in touch about the benefits of becoming a member.
WHAT’S UP NEXT?
Our twice daily news bulletins land Monday to Friday, 50 weeks of the year..
MEMBERSHIP AND EVENTS
See below for our membership and our upcoming events.
The Sport for Business Membership comprises nearly 300 organisations, including all the leading sports and sponsors, as well as commercial and state agencies.
