Maynooth’s Elizabeth Hayden had never represented Ireland on a team until competing at Haras de Jardy, France, last September but she made a brilliant debut when winning team gold, and individual silver, with her mount of just six months, Miracle.

Elizabeth, who turned 19 last month when she was presented with The Irish Field junior event rider of the year award for 2013, first sat in a saddle at an early age. She was a regular follower of the Westmeath Foxhounds and a keen competitor on the hunter trial circuit, riding behind either her mother, Joan, or father, Martin.