By Irish Horse Board / IHB
Photography: Irish Horse Board/Irish Eventing Times

There are few nations in the world with a heritage as deeply entwined with the horse as Ireland. Irish breeders have long been known for producing exceptional horses across various disciplines, and in 2024 that legacy was firmly reinforced as Irish Sport Horses once again asserted their dominance in the demanding world of eventing, winning three of the seven CCI5* events worldwide.

In a sport where marginal gains and split-second decisions separate the champions from the challengers, Irish Sport Horses stood head and shoulders above the rest. Their victories weren’t isolated or narrow; they were commanding, confident displays of the power, heart, and heritage that make Irish bloodlines so sought after.
At the 2024 Kentucky Three-Day Event, all eyes were on Cooley Rosalent (Valent - Bellaney Jewel xx x Roselier xx), bred by Woods Rosbotham and ridden by British stalwart Oliver Townend. Their performance was nothing short of masterful. Sitting third after cross-country, the pair rose to the top with a stellar showjumping round. Their double clear was one of only two produced over the tough track on the final day of competition.
Just months later at the MARS Maryland five-star, Townend continued his winning streak, this time aboard another Irish-bred sensation, Ballaghmor Class (Courage II - Kilderry Place). Known for his consistency and toughness, Ballaghmor Class added yet another accolade to his glittering career. The Maryland victory was a reminder that the very best Irish Sport Horses aren’t just flashes in the pan; they are athletes built for long, successful careers at the highest level.
In addition to his USA triumph, Ballaghmor Class has firmly established himself as one of the leading event horses of the modern era. Bred by the late Noel Hickey, he first captured global attention when winning Burghley Horse Trials in 2017 and has since achieved a remarkable series of top-five finishes at Badminton, Burghley, Kentucky, and now Maryland; a rare feat that cements his reputation as one of the most consistent and talented event horses of his generation.

Horse Trials, New Zealand’s Caroline Powell captured the title riding Greenacres Special Cavalier (Cavalier Royale - Greenacres Touch x Touchdown). Bred in County Meath by Michael Callery, the mighty mare produced a steady, composed performance across all phases to claim the coveted title...

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