DENIS Flannelly has been announced as the ‘lead consultant’ and chef d’equipe for Horse Sport Ireland’s new youth show jumping High Performance programme. Under the new programme, Flannelly will oversee the pony, Children on Horses and junior show jumping teams.

In a change from the previous High Performance model, young riders will now fall under the remit of the senior show jumping manager, Michael Blake. In the past, there was a manager for the pony team and a separate manager for Children on Horses, juniors and young riders.

As part of this appointment, Flannelly has brought in Liz Brennan as youth athlete liaison. A press release from HSI said: “This appointment reflects HSI’s commitment to modern coaching principles, structured athlete pathways, and long-term success on the international stage. Ireland’s youth jumping teams have consistently delivered at the highest level, securing multiple European Championship medals and Nations Cup victories in recent years.

“With Flannelly leading the programme and Brennan ensuring athlete engagement, the focus will be on sustaining and enhancing this success through a progressive, high-performance approach.”

A renowned Level 3 jumping coach, Flannelly has played a pivotal role in the development of European Championship medal-winning riders. As lead consultant, chef d’équipe and jumping manager, he will oversee the technical and strategic direction of the programme.

“I’m honoured to be leading the youth jumping programme with HSI,” Flannelly said. “Irish youth teams have built a remarkable reputation on the international stage, and we now have the opportunity to take things even further - enhancing not just our competitive results, but also the overall development and experience of our young athletes, as they progress through the sport.”

As youth athlete liaison, HSI say Liz Brennan will serve as a key point of contact for athletes and their families, ensuring open communication, strong mentorship and direct support for young riders as they progress through the programme.

Brennan has a long-standing history in Irish show jumping, having previously served as Showjumping Ireland’s National Chair of Ponies and as a key member of HSI’s pony and young riders High Performance committees. She has also played a pivotal role in organising major equestrian events. HSI say her role will focus on ensuring young athletes feel supported, both in and out of the competition arena, while also ensuring that the athlete voice is reflected in programme decisions.

Flannelly and Brennan will be supported by HSI’s High Performance team, with Hayley Devlin and Triona Connors as key contacts within the National Federation (NF).

Avalon Everett, head of sport, legal and governance at HSI, commented: “Denis Flannelly’s appointment as lead consultant brings proven expertise and a fresh, forward-thinking approach to the programme. His thoughtful leadership, alongside Liz Brennan’s role in athlete engagement, will create a dynamic partnership that enhances both athlete development and performance outcomes.

“We are excited to see their vision come to life, as they guide our teams into the 2025 season and beyond.”