THE international equestrian community was united in grief last Tuesday in Co Mayo as the much-loved talented show jumper Jack Dodd (25) was laid to rest at Leigue Cemetery in Ballina.

Thousands of people travelled from Europe, America, and all over Ireland to be beside Jack’s parents David and Trish as they said farewell to their beloved son.

Top Irish international show jumpers Cameron Hanley, Cian O’Connor, Bertram Allen, Shane Breen and Darragh Kenny, among others, made the journey to Ballina.

The funeral Mass took place in St Patrick’s Church, Ballina, where Jack’s bridle, hat and gloves were among the items brought to the Altar. Celebrant Fr Liam Reilly described Jack as a great man, son, friend and sportsman.

Readers at the Mass included Jack’s best friends, the three Duffy brothers of Martin, Alex and Michael.

In one final moving tribute to the young show jumper, who had his own business in Belgium, Jack’s Belgian groom Emely Joos led Gabriel Slattery’s beautiful black stallion Captain Junior, wearing the ‘Jack Dodd Stables’ rug and his riding boots, in front of the hearse to his final resting place.

Riders continue to wear the ‘JD’ logo on their arms at international shows this weekend as a tribute.