Horse Sport Ireland Podcast

• Breeding Champions: How Ireland Stays on Top

  Ireland’s continued success on the world stage depends on our ability to consistently breed and produce top-class sport horsesIn this episode, we’re exploring the exciting developments in Ireland’s horse breeding industry—where passion, tradition, and innovation come together. With increased support, targeted funding, and structured breeding programs, it’s never been more achievable for Irish breeders to produce top-level horses. Some brilliant insights you’ll gain from this episode include:●       The important influence of mentors on horsemanship and horse production●       Producing one of Ireland’s standout horses, Harristown Princess●       Developing young horses with time, patience, and understanding●       How Ireland’s horse sport sector has grown more competitive and professional●       Opportunities and support from Horse Sport Ireland & Breeding ProgramsWe’re joined by Paddy O’Donnell, a respected international showjumper from County Waterford, who has successfully developed top horses like Harristown Princess. We’ll also hear from Conor Sheridan, Breeding Executive at Horse Sport Ireland, who explains how new initiatives are empowering breeders and shaping a strong, sustainable future for Irish horse sport.GUEST DETAILS Paddy O'Donnell is a distinguished Irish showjumper from County Waterford, renowned for his dedication to producing top-level sport horses. His most notable partnership was with Harristown Princess, a mare he developed from a young age. Together, they achieved significant success, including winning the TRM/Horseware Premier Series and being crowned National Show Jumping Champions in 2013. Paddy has also represented Ireland on Nations Cup teams and secured victories in international classes, such as at the RDS Dublin Horse Show. Beyond his competitive achievements, he is committed to nurturing young equine talent and supporting the growth of Ireland's breeding programs. His journey from aspiring rider to national champion exemplifies the opportunities available within Ireland's evolving equestrian landscape.https://www.facebook.com/podshowjumping/Conor Sheridan is the Breeding Executive at Horse Sport Ireland and owner of Brosna View Stables in County Offaly. A passionate advocate for Irish sport horse breeding, he combines hands-on experience with strategic leadership in national breeding initiatives. Conor also co-founded The Irish Horse Breeders Group, promoting collaboration and innovation within the industry.https://ie.linkedin.com/in/conor-sheridan-2bb87139MORE INFORMATIONCheck out horsesportireland.ie Horse Sport Ireland Podcast is produced by DustPod.io QUOTESThe more you do, the more knowledge you gain. Knowledge is power. - Paddy O’Donnell  I never rode anything that wanted to avoid fences like her. - Paddy O’Donnell  It gives breeders a chance that if they're going to breed a horse, they can follow the journey. - Paddy O’Donnell  The biggest thing is you don't over phase horses, and you don't over push them. - Paddy O’Donnell  Horses would rather be eating grass in the field than be ridden. So if that's the case, we have to treat the animal with that respect. They have to be happy. - Paddy O’Donnell  Sport should make a person better. That should help your character develop. - Paddy O’Donnell  It's a great life. Horses are a wonderful life. They're hard work. There's loads of ups and downs. - Paddy O’Donnell  KEYWORDS#Horse #breeding #showjumping #training #welfare #competition

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• From the Ground Up: How to Break Into Eventing

  In today’s eventing world, success isn’t limited to those with a horsey background—it’s earned through determination, clear vision, and consistent effort. For riders who start without early access to the sport, the journey can be more challenging, but it proves that with the right mindset and support, anything is possible.In this episode, we explore how one of Ireland’s top event riders carved out his own path to success, showing that strong values, long-term relationships, and a commitment to growth can build a world-class career from the ground up.Some brilliant insights you’ll gain from this episode include:Developing young horses with patience and purposeBuilding a sustainable equestrian business rooted in strong valuesThe lasting importance of traditional Irish breedingHow formal education can strengthen an equestrian careerCreating meaningful partnerships with horses and ownersJoining us is Ian Cassells, currently ranked 43rd in the world, who shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Ireland’s leading event riders.GUEST DETAILSIan Cassells is a leading Irish event rider who began his equestrian journey from a non-horsey background. He graduated with an Honours degree in Agricultural Science from University College Dublin, where he also captained the equestrian club. Ian has represented Ireland at major competitions, including the FEI Nations Cup and European Championships, earning individual and team medals. In 2024, he was the top rider at the Eventing Ireland Nationals and Home Internationals. Based in Newcastle, Co. Dublin, Ian runs his own yard, focusing on developing young horses and training riders, and is respected for his dedication and strong values in the sport.https://iancassellseventing.com/about.html MORE INFORMATIONCheck out horsesportireland.ieHorse Sport Ireland Podcast is produced by DustPod.io QUOTESJust because you don't come from a horsey background doesn't mean it's not a possibility. - Ian CassellsWith horses, you never know everything, and you're forever learning. And when you think you know everything, they'll catch you by surprise and teach you something else. - Ian CassellsPeople don't understand how much goes into the day to day. - Ian CassellsIt's made me more grateful, and made me work even harder to have that success. - Ian CassellsIf you're representing your country you take massive honor and pride. - Ian CassellsKEYWORDS#Horse #sport #eventing #rider #PonyClub #Badminton #training #competition #breeding

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• Youth Show Jumping: Pathway to the Podium

  As the road to the 2025 Nations Cup and European Championships begins, the focus isn’t just on selecting the strongest riders—it’s about building a pathway that supports young athletes through every stage of development.Today, we are going to explore how a more structured, athlete-focused approach is shaping Ireland’s youth show jumping programme for long-term impact. Some brilliant insights you’ll gain from this episode include:Creating structure, support, and a long-term vision for young ridersA new leadership approach to reshaping Ireland’s youth programme What selectors are really looking for at trialsThe importance of mentorship and team culturePreparing to compete on the European stageWith a new leadership team heading the Youth Show Jumping High Performance Programme, newly appointed Lead Consultant, Denis Flannelly and Youth Athlete Liaison, Liz Brennan join us to share the training and team values they’re implementing to reach big ambitions on the national stage. GUEST DETAILSDenis Flannelly is Lead Consultant of the HSI Youth Show Jumping High Performance Programme and a highly respected Level 3 HSI Jumping Coach. Denis has years of experience as Chef d’Équipe and Jumping Manager, with a proven track record of developing medal-winning riders for Ireland on the international stage. Liz Brennan is Youth Athlete Liaison of the HSI Youth Show Jumping Programme. A cornerstone of Irish youth show jumping, Liz has a long-standing history of supporting young riders through every stage of their competitive journey. Liz plays a vital role in mentoring athletes, fostering team culture, and ensuring open communication between riders, families, and the performance team. https://www.horsesportireland.ie/horse-sport-ireland-announces-new-leadership-for-youth-show-jumping-high-performance-programme/ MORE INFORMATIONCheck out horsesportireland.ieHorse Sport Ireland Podcast is produced by DustPod.io QUOTESIf they just want to be better, that's the first thing for me. - Denis Flannelly Success breeds success. - Liz Brennan We're all about success, and our end game is European Championship podium finishes. - Liz Brennan Horse welfare for me is at the top. - Denis Flannelly Ireland is punching above its weight at the moment. - Liz Brennan There are four elements of success; physical fitness, mental fitness, technical education and tactical awareness. - Denis Flannelly KEYWORDS#youth #showjumping #horse #welfare #coaching #athlete #competition #trainingprogram #equestrian 

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• Unshattered Dreams: The Trevor Breen Story

  When life throws its toughest challenges, true champions find a way to rise. Trevor Breen’s story is one of resilience, grit, and the unwavering support that fuels extraordinary comebacks. Trevor and his wife Caroline take us on an emotional journey from a devastating fall at the Hamburg Grand Prix—where he suffered a broken and dislocated neck and back.Some brilliant insights you’ll gain from this episode include:A champion’s mentality that helped Trevor return to competition after a catastrophic injuryBehind-the-scenes details of professional show jumping The logistics of competing internationally Key turning points in Trevor’s career, from amateur rider to elite show jumper Practical safety advice for riders at all levels, including Trevor’s adoption of the Air vestTrevor also shares the physical and psychological battles of his recovery and we hear Caroline’s experience managing Breen Sport Horses, along with exciting plans for upcoming competitions. With honesty, vulnerability, and a champion’s mindset, their story is one you won’t want to miss.GUEST DETAILSTrevor Breen has ridden nationally and internationally all his life to great success. With selections for The European Championships, Nations Cup Finals, and GCL Teams amongst other Irish National & International teams, and being longlisted for London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympic Games. Trevor has had a consistently successful career on the international show jumping scene, winning on huge stages in The UAE, as well as CSI5* wins in London, Dublin, and Hickstead, and riding for Ireland on numerous winning Nations Cups.Caroline Breen shares the passion for show jumping, achieving wins on the national and international circuit. She has trained with accomplished figures in British Showjumping, such as Tim Stockdale, and plays a crucial role in producing the young horses, training clients and overseeing all aspects of the business management.https://breensporthorses.co.uk/ MORE INFORMATIONCheck out horsesportireland.ieHorse Sport Ireland Podcast is produced by DustPod.io QUOTESIt's the first fall that I haven't walked away from in my whole life. - Trevor Breen I knew it was serious as soon as I saw him. - Caroline Breen There was only one horse I was riding, and that was Highland President. The whole show nearly came to a standstill when I went in. - Trevor Breen He's come back into the sport very mentally strong as well, which is obviously so important for an athlete. - Caroline Breen I have had a serious injury, and if I’ve got something that can help protect me if I do fall again, which I'm sure I will, why not use it? - Trevor Breen He's quite strong, he fights for me in the ring, but he also fights against me. - Trevor Breen KEYWORDS#Horsesport #TrevorBreen #HamburgGrandPrix #injuryrecovery #showjumping #equestrian #HighlandPresident #Airvest #NationsCup

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• William Micklem - Inventions, Sport for All & Eventing High Performance

  In this second episode with William Micklem, host John Kyle discusses William's inventions, his desire to make equestrianism a sport for all in Ireland and High Performance eventing in Ireland today.MORE INFORMATIONHorse Sport Ireland Podcast is produced by DustPod.io 

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