Ward is a member of Cheval Riding Club and works in pharmaceutical sales with Merck Seven Seas. She competes in show jumping, one-day eventing and hunter trials at advanced primary level recently finished third in the AIRC National Championships in her grade at Mullingar EC. Earlier this week, the Meath rider also won the Bronze Horse League within her club, accumulating the best score over a seven-week league.

Ward is currently competing on her friend Susan Kennedy’s gelding Yore Diamond (Wilson) as she is between horses having sold her own mare.

She and Wilson will spend a weekend training with Cian O’Connor at his base in Karlswood Stables, Co Meath, where the Irish international will help the pair with their flatwork and jumping and pass on tips from his wealth of experience competing at home and abroad.

“I’m delighted to support this initiative and am thrilled that Karlswood is able to participate. We look forward to welcoming Teresa and hope she enjoys her stay with us,” said O’Connor.

David Abbott, director general of the AIRC added: “It’s a fantastic prize and I wish Teresa a very enjoyable and educational experience with Cian O’Connor as it is something I believe she will remember for the rest of her life.

“The Irish Field have been very supportive of the Association of Irish Riding Clubs through their sponsorship of the Riding Clubs Festival and this latest competition is testament to their commitment to the grass roots of the sport something, which we are very grateful for.”