PROFESSIONAL Irish riders basing themselves in the USA has become quite commonplace in recent years. Names that spring to mind include top international show jumping riders Conor Swail, Shane Sweetnam and the Coyle brothers.

American riders often visit Ireland, whether for training, competitions or in search of a new horse but few permanently base themselves here. Eventing and show jumping rider Gillian Beale King broke that mould when, after two years at Belline Equestrian, she set up on her own at Doyle’s Equestrian Centre in Carlow. Her plan now is to build up her competition string, as well as buying horses to produce and sell on and establish herself further as a coach.