FLAGS flying around the GAA stronghold of Gort and its hinterland are not unusual. For the next seven weeks, sightings of Lone Star State and US flags are. The reason? Jessica Burke has qualified for the Longines FEI World Cup final in Fort Worth, Texas and her hometown is behind their local show jumping star.

“They’re delighted, they even gave me a shout-out at the Galway Blazers hunt ball last week! It was hilarious. Colm Farrell, a good friend, gave a speech while wearing a cowboy hat. They’re absolutely flying at home,” said Jessica, who won the Bordeaux World Cup qualifier recently with Good Star du Bary (Rock ’N Roll Semilly x Oberon du Moulin).