Equestrian Centre Owner Secures Injunction After Horse Seizure

An international eventing and showjumping rider, Michelle Kenny, has been granted a temporary injunction following the seizure of a horse truck and six horses from her equestrian centre, River Lodge Equestrian Centre, located in Harpoonstown, County Wexford. The High Court issued the injunction to prevent Rafael Sanctuary, her ex-partner and former director of her company, from transporting or selling the assets.

Kenny, who is the sole shareholder of River Lodge Eventing Limited, made her application to the High Court on September 7, 2025. According to her affidavit, Sanctuary is currently in possession of six horses valued at an estimated €400,000. The horses include Sligo Balou Lady, Mustang, RLE Seychelles Candy Girl, Naspahir, Pablo Quintero, and the notably valuable Mika.

In court, Kenny’s counsel, Keith Farry BL, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the injunction was necessary as there was a “serious and material risk” that the horses could be taken out of the jurisdiction, making their recovery impossible. The affidavit revealed that Kenny had been informed about the rental of a stable yard in Fairtown, Cavan, where the horses are believed to be kept.

The legal proceedings also highlighted that Sanctuary had accepted service of the protection order pleadings at the aforementioned address. On the same day of the court application, Kenny received information from a veterinarian indicating that Sanctuary was attempting to obtain duplicate passports for the horses, further complicating the situation.

In addition to the horses, the affidavit listed a horse truck, two trailers, and equipment valued at €160,000 as having been taken. Kenny noted that she had attempted to resolve the matter directly, having met with her solicitors on September 4. A warning letter was sent the following day, but Sanctuary did not respond.

During the court session, Mr Justice Rory Mulcahy granted the temporary injunction, which prevents Sanctuary from engaging in any transportation or sale of the assets. Furthermore, Kenny indicated that Sanctuary had control over the primary company email, social media accounts, and website, which are critical for her business operations, accounting for approximately 90 percent of incoming leads. Kenny expressed concern over her inability to access these accounts, further jeopardizing her business.

As the legal battle continues, the outcome will not only determine the fate of the horses and equipment but also the future of Kenny’s business in the competitive equestrian industry.