IT is often quoted that battles are lost and won before they are ever fought.

In essence that the very battle plan – the planning behind the campaign in question – is even more essential to success than having the most superior army on the field on a given day.

Top Brazilian show jumper and chef d’equipe Rodrigo Pessoa was always a man with a plan and last Friday night, that became a reality.

He was tirelessly backed up by show jumping powerhouses in Gerry Mullins and Michael Blake and all were, in turn, supported by Horse Sport Ireland.

In a fantastic hard-fought win that brought much pride back to Ireland, it was absolutely wonderful to finally see much deserved gold medals for our top Irish riders, Cian O’Connor, who also won individual bronze, Denis Lynch, Shane Sweetnam and Bertram Allen.

Huge congratulations also to Richard Howley and Jenny Rankin on their glittering achievements (see pages A60-63).

NO. 1 Goal

Right from the first interview he did with Irish Horse World’s Judith Faherty in March at the Winter Equestrian Festival, Rodrigo openly and calmly set out his stall.

The European Championships in Gothenburg were his No. 1 stated goal and he warned far in advance that it could well come at the expense of the Aga Khan Cup.

Post Rio, he inherited division in the Irish ranks which was at truly epic proportions.

That faith was never lost can be seen in that wonderful tricolour jacket!

An open communication strategy is in place and from bitter ashes, a team is being built before our eyes.

Many congratulations to all.

Onward and Upward.