FRIDAY night sees the first Irish team line out for the 2011 Nations' Cup season, which starts in Wellington, Florida with the Nations' Cup of America.

Team Ireland Equestrian's show jumping manager Robert Splaine has announced his team jumping order, which will be:
Darragh Kenny: Gael Force (ISH)
Jennifer Crooks : SF Uryadi
Paul O'Shea: Realman
Shane Sweetnam: Rolette

Ireland has been drawn seventh of eight teams competing for the four-star trophy, and the stiff competition will include strong teams from Britain, Canada and the USA.

Limerick's Paul O'Shea lifted Irish spirits last night (Wednsday) when he was outright winner of the $5,000 Welcome Stakes competition at the Palm Beach venue, riding 'Daydream St. Ghyvan Z'. Wellington will be his 10th Nations' Cup appearance for Ireland and he said after yesterday's win: "Nations' Cups are very special to Irish people. It's a big deal for us, and it's what we all aim for. We like to ride for our country and it's a big honor,"

The Nations' Cup begins just before midnight on Friday, Irish time, but can be followed on live video at www.usefnetwork.com

Paul O'Shea - wins first Wellington class