Offaly showjumper returns with a big win in five-star event

DARRAGH Kenny returned to action with a bang, securing a five-star victory and leading an Irish 1-2 with more than a hint of irony to it, as Bertram Allen chased him home in Wellington on Thursday last.

It was a momentous evening for the Offaly native, who had a four-month provisional suspension lifted by the FEI as his positive test for a prohibited substance was related to a prescribed medication for ADHD.

The irony lay in Allen helping out with the preparation of his compatriot’s horses in recent weeks, the Wexford native bagging a four-star double at this venue three weeks ago on Eddy Blue and Zero K.

Eddy Blue was clearly spot on for his regular partner’s comeback to the international circuit and having helped Ireland finish fourth in the 2025 European Championships and also finished seventh individually, it did not come as a shock to see them win the WEF Challenge Cup.

The 14-year-old gelding owned by Carol A Sollak was clever and quick, while Kenny displayed all his customary quiet composure in the irons to see off 10 other combinations in the jump-off. The World No 25 was understandably delighted as he and Eddy stopped the clock at 37.90 seconds in posting their second clear.

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They did have Allen chasing hard on Aloga Stables’ 10-year-old Qonquest de Rigo, though at 39.12 seconds, they did not threaten the winning time. Meanwhile Cian O'Connor and Ulysses made it a very fruitful class indeed for the Green Jackets in fourth, with a time of 40.87.

“This is my first week back so it’s nice to get back in the ring,” said Kenny. “Bertram Allen rode Eddy for me for a little bit and did a fantastic job on him. The horse feels ready to go, and he was amazing today as he always is.

“I knew Bertram's horse has a massive stride; he did seven from one to two. I wasn't sure if I could do that, but it showed up for me. I think my horse is more experienced than his in jump-offs, so that's probably where it got him.

“I’m very lucky to have such a fantastic group of owners and staff who kept the horses in great shape,” the Olympian commented of his time on the sidelines. “I was very lucky Bertram was able to ride them for me - I’m very thankful to everybody who was involved in that.”

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