Ireland's equestrian team claimed victory in the opening event of the 2025 Longines League of Nations in Abu Dhabi, showcasing their dominance and setting the stage for a successful title defense.
Ireland has kicked off its title defense in the 2025 Longines League of Nations with a resounding victory at the opening event in Abu Dhabi. Chef d’Equipe Michael Blake’s team, entering the competition as the top-ranked nation after winning last season's final in Barcelona last October, delivered a flawless performance. Denis Lynch, piloting Vistogrand, began the day with a clear round, followed by Trevor Breen aboard Highland President, who also completed a faultless course.
Jason Foley, riding the new mare Chedington Hazy Toulana, secured Ireland's third clear combination but incurred a time penalty, resulting in two faults.With both the United Arab Emirates and France finishing the first round on zero points, Mikey Pender needed a clean round to match them, which he successfully achieved on HHS Los Angeles. After the first round, Ireland found themselves tied with France and the UAE on zero points, with France leading based on time. As the 11-team field was reduced to eight in round two, Lynch and Breen again demonstrated their prowess with double clears, leaving it to Pender to solidify Ireland's victory. The 25-year-old delivered, finishing with a fence in hand after France's Jeanne Sadran accumulated 12 faults, concluding the day with another clear round for Team Ireland.Following the victory, Blake expressed his admiration for his team's exceptional performance, highlighting their remarkable achievement of not knocking down a single fence over the two rounds. He commended Denis Lynch for his recent outstanding form with Vistogrand, acknowledging that he set the pace with his double clear. Blake also praised Trevor Breen's resilience and determination in returning to competition after a serious injury, emphasizing Breen's remarkable accomplishment. He further lauded Jason Foley for his impressive five-star debut on a brand-new horse, noting their clean performance. Finally, Blake acknowledged Mikey Pender's crucial role in securing the win, stating that when the team needed him to deliver, he always came through. Blake concluded by expressing his overwhelming joy for everyone involved in the team's success
EQUESTRIAN SPORTS LONGINES LEAGUE OF NATIONS IRELAND TEAM VICTORY ABUDHABI
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