Speaking after the announcement Comdt Ledingham said that the
Championships would be a big challenge for the riders but he was
encouraged by the way a number of the combinations had developed
during the trips to Wales and West and the recent Nations' Cup shows in Reims and Weirden.

"Competing abroad is an eye opener for many riders at this level and
the recent shows in Reims and Weirden, where we were without some of our
more proven combinations, was a steep learning curve but it was vital
for these riders. In addition the experience that Alex Duffy and David
Simpson have gained on senior Nations Cup teams will stand them in
very good stead," he said.

Comdt Ledingham concluded by acknowledging the contribution made to the programme by SJI junior/young rider representative Taylor Vard and Horse Sport Ireland's High Performance co-ordinator Heather Coyle.