THE Nations Cup season concluded for 2024 in Vilamoura, Portugal, in November, bringing to an end the series, which included 30 world-wide shows, including the Paris Olympic Games, and saw some 768 clear rounds being jumped. Each year, the Swiss equestrian magazine, PferdeWoche, puts together an exclusive ranking of the countries taking part in Nations Cup competitions, as well as the individual riders.

This year, Meath’s Cian O’Connor has earned the title of most successful Nations Cup rider of 2024, as he rode an impressive 15 clear rounds during Nations Cup competitions. Britain’s Ben Maher took second place with 11 clear rounds, while Derry’s Daniel Coyle shared third place with world number one Sweden’s Henrik von Eckermann, both having jumped 10 clear rounds.

O’Connor’s 15 clear rounds has exceeded the number that 2023 individual winner, Steve Guerdat, clocked up, with the Swiss rider having 13 clear rounds last year.

O’Connor, who is 45, runs Karlswood Stables in Batterstown, Co Meath and has been on 11 Nations Cup teams this year, riding four different horses to secure his 15 clear rounds. He and the nine-year-old French stallion Fancy de Kergane jumped a total of 11 clear rounds, including three double clear rounds in Roeser (LUX), Prague (CZE) and Falsterbo (SWE). O’Connor and the 12-year-old Belgian gelding K.I Maurice, jumped double clear at the five-star show in Rome (ITA), while he accrued one clear round each with the 10-year-old Oldenburg stallion Fermoy and the 11-year-old Zangersheide gelding Iron Man.

Pride

O’Connor was presented with the award from sidelines of the CHI Geneva show and commented: “I think it’s very special, because it’s unique to be able to represent your country.

"We jump every week as individual athletes, but when we can help each other and compete as a team, it creates a very special atmosphere and culture.

"And the Irish team has done so well, that I feel very lucky to have been a part of it for so long. Actually, my first Nations Cup was in Athens in 1999.”

Regarding Nations Cup jumping in general, O’Connor said: “The Nations Cup is probably the biggest challenge for us riders. Two identical rounds at short intervals, two water jumps, two triple combinations. I think the Nations Cup is very important, not only for the development of the horses, but also for the riders. It teaches the riders that Friday afternoon is usually the time and the day to perform - just like at a championship.”

During the 2024 season, 39 countries were represented by 321 riders and they rode a total of 768 clear rounds in the 30 Nations Cup competitions, which included three to five-star shows, as well as the Olympic Games. There was an average of over 25 clear rounds per tournament. This has increased since 2023, when it was just under 21, with a total of 731 clear rounds jumped at 35 tournaments.

O’Connor continued: “I think there is a lot of ambition among young Irish riders to compete in Nations Cups competitions. There are also so many good young riders coming up all the time, who want to be part of it and represent their country.”

Ireland took the top spot in the team category, with a fantastic 77 clear rounds ridden in Nations Cup classes throughout the season, with 22 Irish riders participating. Germany finished in second place with 75 clear rounds, followed by The Netherlands in third with 62.

The Irish team also featured on the greatest number of podiums during the Nations Cup season, with 15 podium finishes. Germany were second on 12, with Britain third on nine.

Team manager Michael Blake said: “We are obviously very pleased to be on top of the table for podiums and clear rounds. It goes to show how much pride we all take in the green jacket and representing our country.

“It’s a fantastic programme we have built and it’s a fantastic honour to be named team of the year.”

Blake also said on social media: “This incredible achievement reflects the tireless dedication of our riders, who consistently perform at the highest level across the globe. We are so proud of each and every one of you!”

Blake also extended thanks to sponsors, owners, home support teams, grooms, breeders, governing bodies, coaches, mentors, families and friends, who stand behind the team every step of the way and he highlighted the importance of teamwork, dedication and passion for Irish show jumping.