Róisín Sheridan

CAPT Michael Kelly’s decision to leave the Army Equitation School after 14 years to join Cian O’Connor’s Karlswood Stables was one that was on the cards for a while before the popular rider made up his mind.

Speaking to The Irish Field this week, Kelly said: “A change was something I’d been thinking about for a while; all was well and I was very happy in the army but I had started to think that I would like to explore other opportunities within the industry apart from just competing.

“I looked into possibilities in the States and Europe and assessed the possible opportunities there.

“Cian has always been a good friend and advisor and when I mentioned to him that I was thinking of a change, he said when I was ready to come to him and we could discuss an idea he had.

“Cian needs more time to concentrate on competing but he didn’t want any other aspect of his business to suffer. I can help with all the aspects of his business; training clients, looking out for new horses, keeping his string competition ready, all sides of the industry and I’m delighted to come onboard and work for Karlswood.

“This is all happening at the right time for me; I’m 32 in February so I’m still young enough to be enthusiastic and work hard.

“Everyone thinks that this move is a really big change in my life, and it is; but to be honest there’s an even bigger change coming in March when my wife is due our first child,” said Kelly.

He continued: “It’s the right time for a move and going to Karlswood is a great fit. We’ve lived in Ashbourne for the past eight years so we don’t have to re-locate and I felt it was time for me to start thinking about my family. Hopefully this move will allow me see aspects of the industry that I didn’t experience in the army.

“I will forever be grateful to everyone in the Army Equitation School. I owe so much to Gerry Flynn, David O’Brien and Shane Carey, their advice and tuition has made me the rider and horseman I am today.

“I have received amazing support and advice from Tom Freyne and Brian MacSweeney, and also from Robert Splaine who gave me a chance to be on teams and gain great international experience.

“The Equitation School is a great place, I’m so grateful for the chances I got there; but it’s someone else’s turn now. They have a great team of riders and some really exciting horses; I got my chance when riders like David O’Brien moved on so there’s a knock on effect; my leaving allows other riders like Jennifer Larkin, Geoff Curran and David Power to have new rides,” he concluded.