Kilkenny Riders Shine with Top Finishes at European Championships

URGENT UPDATE: Kilkenny’s own Seamus Hughes Kennedy and Darragh Kenny have just delivered remarkable performances at the 38th Longines FEI European Show Jumping Championships, cementing their places among the elite with finishes of fifth and seventh in the individual standings. The event, taking place in A Coruna, Spain, attracted a competitive field of 89 riders starting on July 12, 2023.

In a week filled with high stakes, Hughes Kennedy and his mount, ESI Rocky, showcased impeccable skill, completing five rounds without a single jumping error. Despite a time fault that frustrated the 22-year-old, he climbed from seventh to fifth place, finishing with a low total of 3.16 faults.

Kenny, riding Eddy Blue, also achieved a stunning double clear, climbing six spots to finish seventh. The 13-year-old horse, partnered with Kenny, had only one knock throughout the week, showcasing their impressive synergy under pressure.

The excitement peaked as the riders tackled increasingly challenging courses, with the final round featuring towering obstacles over 1.70m. While the competition was fierce, Hughes Kennedy and Kenny remained focused, demonstrating their readiness to compete at this elite level.

After the final rounds, Kenny expressed his satisfaction, stating,

“The horse jumped amazing… I just have to do what I have to do and see what happens.”

His calm demeanor under pressure was evident as he expertly navigated the demanding course.

Hughes Kennedy, reflecting on his debut at a major championship, shared his mixed feelings.

“I’m delighted with the result in the finish… it was a great championship, especially our first senior championship,”

he said, emphasizing his pride in his horse’s performance despite narrowly missing a medal.

The championship not only highlighted the individual achievements of the Irish riders but also underscored their contributions to the team event, where they played crucial roles in helping Ireland secure a strong overall position among eighteen nations.

As the event concludes, both riders and their horses return home with immense pride in their accomplishments. The competition proved to be a significant stepping stone for Hughes Kennedy and Kenny, paving the way for future successes in their equestrian careers.

With this exhilarating performance, the Kilkenny riders have firmly established themselves on the international stage. Fans and supporters are encouraged to celebrate their achievements and stay tuned for their next competitions as they continue to shine in the world of show jumping.