GALWAY show jumper Stephen Moore has set up his own business, Rockmount Equestrian, after 12 years working under the Oakland Stables banner for Darragh Kenny.

The 34-year-old, who hails from Claregalway, has established himself as a successful rider up to five-star level, as well as an accomplished trainer, which culminated in guiding Israel’s Teddy Vlock to compete at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. The name, Rockmount, comes with a long history. Rockmount was established in 1972 by Stephen’s grandfather, JJ Moore, as a riding school, training centre and show facility on the outskirts of Galway city.

Stephen’s father, David Moore, carried the business forward with much success and Stephen competed nationally in Ireland and internationally in Europe until his move to America.

Now living in Wellington, Florida with his wife Riley and one-year-old daughter Maisie, Stephen is looking forward to this new venture, which will focus on training and developing riders and horses.

“I’m really thankful to Darragh and Oakland for our time together and everything I have learned. I’m very excited to start this next chapter with Rockmount Equestrian where I will be competing myself, training clients and developing sales horses,” Moore said.

Darragh Kenny paid tribute to Stephen, saying: “We are naturally sad to see him go, but we are incredibly proud of all he has achieved. We wish him every success as he begins this new chapter and establishes his own business.”