Two-time Olympian Jessica Kurten has been named Horse Sport Ireland's new high performance jumping manager.
A former world number two in the FEI rankings, Kurten enjoyed a glittering equestrian career. She represented Ireland at the Atlanta Olympic Games in 1996 and at Athens in 2004 and was a key member of the European Championship gold-medal winning team in 2001.
She is also an Aga Khan Trophy winner for Ireland and was a regular representative at World Cups and major championship events, earning her place as one of Ireland’s most successful and respected international riders.
"I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed as Ireland’s new high performance jumping manager," she said.
"Ireland has a strong track record in jumping and I look forward to working closely with all members of the team, with HSI and with all the other stakeholders to ensure that we put ourselves in the best possible position.
"I am hugely excited for about our prospects for the World Championships next year and for the European Championships and Olympics in 2028.
"I have been involved in equestrian sport for 40 years, and I will bring all of my experience to fostering a collaborative and successful culture within the Irish team."
Kurten, who succeeds Michael Blake in the role, will be responsible for the planning, delivery and performance of Ireland's senior jumping programme.
