European championship history within reach for Ireland’s eventers

Ireland’s senior eventers are on the cusp of a historic result at the FEI Eventing European Championships in Blenheim.

Dag Albert’s team lie in second place after a dramatic day of cross country and a first team medal since 1995 is within touching distance. 

Germany lead the team standings with what looks an unassailable lead on 113.7 penalties with the Irish on 150.7. Switzerland sit in third on 161.3.

Surprisingly, hosts Britain are out of contention after eliminations for Yas Ingham and Piggy March.

Individually, Ian Cassells and Millridge Atlantis (ISH) are best of the Irish in 10th position on a score of 46.2, having picked up 13.6 time penalties. Sarah Ennis is also very well placed in 14th with Dourough Ferro Class Act (ISH).

Padraig McCarthy and Robbie Kearns are 16th and 18th respectively after also only picking up time faults and what was ultimately an excellent showing.

Team manager Dag Albert heaped praise on his squad, saying: “That was probably about as good as we could have hoped for today – I’m delighted with the guys.

“We knew it was going to be extremely hard work out there, so for us to be in second place now ahead of tomorrow’s jumping is great. 

“Four combinations inside the top 20 is great so we just have to keep focused and have a few nice rounds jumping tomorrow to hold on to our position and bring home that medal.”

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