THE Showjumping Ireland Board appointed a new national chairperson and national vice chairperson last Monday, February 10th, at their first meeting this year.

Des McFadden replaced outgoing chairperson Christy Murphy, who had served his term as national chair. McFadden was vice chairperson for the previous three years.

Well-known within the Ulster Region and National Show jumping as a long-time Ulster Region Committee member and sponsor through his various business interests, McFadden also has a significant family involvement with his sons, daughter and grandchildren all involved in the sport. He had also served as National Pony Chair for the past number of years and that position now passes on to Melvyn Kennedy.

Marguerite Ryan was also appointed as vice chairperson on Monday, whilst also being requested by the Board to remain as chair of the National Competitions Committee. Marguerite, like the National Chair, is a huge supporter of National Show jumping as a sponsor, and owner, with extended family connections within the sport, with her son Jack and daughter Ciara jumping Nationally and Internationally.

In a statement on the appointments, SJI said: “Showjumping Ireland continues to take progressive steps in growing the sport nationally and internationally, whilst also ensuring the highest levels of governance are adhered to across its broad committee and membership activities.

“Its direction and actions taken over the last number of years have ensured that it remains in a strong position to support the sport and industry and it continuously works with its fellow affiliates and sector stakeholders to support, grow and enhance the sport horse industry.

“Showjumping Ireland is delighted to have two progressive, knowledgeable and involved people at the head of the organisation, who have a full understanding of the needs of the members, sport and sector.”