THE dispute between Michelle Kenny of River Lodge Equestrian Centre and her former business and life partner, Rafael Sanctuary, has been settled, the High Court was told on Thursday.

While the romantic relationship between Kenny and Sanctuary ended in 2023, their business relationship continued until August 2025, when Kenny announced her intention to sell the business to facilitate “a fresh start”. A mediation process was established between Kenny and Sanctuary, who had both been directors of the company along with Kenny’s father John since 2017, and it was agreed that five horses could be used as consideration in the settlement.

However, before the matter was settled, Sanctuary removed these five horses and a sixth, Mika, collectively valued at €400,000, from the River Lodge premises in Harpoonstown, Co Wexford. Kenny went to the High Court on September 8th to secure an interim injunction preventing Sanctuary from selling or further transporting these horses, and all were taken into independent care other than Mika, who was returned to Kenny.

On Wednesday of this week, according to Irish Independent, the High Court had been due to hear an application for the cross-examination of Kenny about averments made in her affidavits. However, Mr Justice Oisin Quinn was informed that an agreement had been reached, following discussions between the lawyers for both sides.

Kenny and River Lodge Eventing Ltd were represented by barristers Martin Hayden SC and Keith Farry BL, instructed by solicitors O’Sullivan and Associates, while Sanctuary was represented by barristers Aillil O’Reilly SC and Niall Gaffney BL, instructed by solicitors Doran W O’Toole and Co.

Mr Justice Quinn said: “I want to congratulate both parties. There is obviously a lot of background here and a lot of work had to be done to resolve matters. In matters like this, it is to the benefit of both sides when they can, with the help of their advisors, come to a resolution themselves.”

In a statement, Sanctuary said: “I was more than happy with the outcome of today’s events, which brings to a conclusion my involvement in River Lodge Eventing Ltd. My interest in the business has finally been acknowledged by the company and by Michelle Kenny. Litigation like this can become quite personal. I can now look forward to advancing my business and working with my clients, who have stood by me through these difficult times.”

Kenny said: “I am grateful for the court’s time in securing a successful outcome in this matter. I look forward to continuing in business with no link or connection to the defendant, and renewing my work with my great clients, suppliers and horses.”

The terms of the settlement were being written up, and it is expected that the matter will return to court once that process has been completed. A separate High Court action, taken by American Sam Stathis against Kenny, contesting the ownership of Mika, has yet to be concluded.