Michael Blake appointed Irish Show Jumping Development Team Manager

Horse Sport Ireland, the Governing Body for Equestrian Sport in Ireland, are delighted to announce two new appointments to support it’s Show Jumping High Performance Programme.

Co Clare’s Michael Blake (pictured) has been appointed Show Jumping Development Team Manager and will also act as assistant to recently appointed Senior Show Jumping Team Manager Rodrigo Pessoa.

Michael Blake has for a number of years been involved with Irish underage teams and was assistant to the Irish Young Rider Team Manager for the 2016 Young Rider European Championships in Millstreet where Ireland secured the team Gold Medal. Michael Blake also acted as Chef d’Equipe for the Irish senior team recently, scoring back-to-back Nations Cup wins at Ocala and Wellington in Florida, USA.

Horse Sport Ireland Show Jumping Team Manger Rodrigo Pessoa said:

“I am very pleased with the appointment of Micheal Blake as Development Team Manager. His enthusiasm and energy will be integral to our group. We have to prepare new and upcoming talents to add more depth for the future of the Irish team.”

Taylor Vard will act as assistant to the new Show Jumping Development Manager Michael Blake. Taylor Vard has many years experience as a rider, coach and as part of the Horse Sport Ireland High Performance Jumping committee.

Horse Sport Ireland interim CEO James Kennedy added::

“These appointments will put in place the structure to support and develop Team Ireland whose main objectives are qualification for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo and winning team and/or individual medals at the Tokyo Games.”