TWO Irishmen have been named among the 11 exceptional young athletes selected for the coveted Young Riders Academy squad for 2025. Francis Derwin Jnr and Max Foley were chosen for their talent, dedication and potential to become the next generation of equestrian leaders following a rigorous two-day selection process at Peelbergen Equestrian Centre.

The selection process included riding sessions, theoretical evaluations and interviews that explored each candidate’s knowledge of the sport and compatibility with the YRA programme. “It was special to me to be recognised by people at the top of the sport and I couldn’t have done it without Marion Hughes and Miguel Bravo,” Foley said. “Big thanks to the whole team and to everyone who helped me along the way. I feel very privileged and a big thanks to McLain Ward also.”

“It means a lot to be given the opportunity to be selected for something like the Young Riders Academy,” Derwin said. “There’s been some great riders to come out of the Academy. It’s also a great opportunity to be able to train with some of the best riders in the world.”

“Irish riders have been extremely well-represented at the Academy over the last 10 years,” Ronan Corrigan said on behalf of Showjumping Ireland. “Their inclusion again reaffirms the value of a strong national circuit for these riders to develop their skills and talent. Showjumping Ireland wishes to congratulate both Young Riders and wishes them success through 2025.”

A Horse Sport Ireland spokesperson said: “Everyone at HSI is delighted that Francis and Max have been selected. They are exceptional talents who have worked incredibly hard to be selected and we congratulate them on their achievement. Year-on-year, the Young Riders Academy chooses some of the finest talent and the 2025 team is no different. We wish them all the very best at the academy.”

The selection committee evaluated the riders not only on their technical ability but also on their mindset, values, and vision for their future in the sport.

The YRA 2025 now begins its journey with a programme designed to support their growth through a blend of sport, education, and experience. The official sporting calendar will begin in mid-April with a clinic led by Franke Sloothaak at Peelbergen Equestrian Centre.