OFFALY show jumper Darragh Kenny has lost the ride on a number of his top horses following American owner Ann Thompson’s decision to reorganise her involvement in the sport.

In a statement, Thompson said she would be taking a step back to concentrate on her personal work, but would not be leaving the sport completely. It is understood some of the horses will move to a leading American rider.

Thompson owns the 14-year-old stallion Balou du Reventon, who won the five-star Grands Prix in Chantilly and Knokke last year, and helped Ireland to victory in the FEI Nations Cup in Barcelona and qualify for Tokyo. The pair then finished runners-up in the Super Grand Prix in Prague. Their total earning in 2019 Global Champions Tour was €503,235. They earned €165,000 for winning the Rolex Grand Prix in Knokke, as well as other results.

Thompson also owns the 11-year-old gelding Romeo 88, who finished second in the Rolex Top 10 final last December, and Classic Dream, winner of the World Cup qualifier in Florida earlier this year, among other horses.

After a partnership of three years, Thompson said: “With the Covid-19 outbreak having such a huge toll here in America, I explained to Darragh that it was important for me personally to reorganise my level of involvement in the sport horse industry and concentrate on my work with animals in need. I do not plan on leaving the sport completely, but it is time for an evaluation of my priorities. Darragh understands my passion, and I appreciate his support. It has been a pleasure to support him, and to get to know the people in his circle, especially his parents whom I adore.”

A very disappointed Kenny said: “Ann has explained to me that her priorities have changed, and that she wishes to focus on her foundation work rescuing horses. While I am terribly disappointed as we’ve had such a fabulous partnership, I do understand.

“Anyone who knows Ann will be aware of how passionate she is about animal rescue. I am immensely grateful for everything she has done for me over the years, and I will miss her and her horses very much.”