CIAN O’Connor will not go forward in the Olympic team competition for Ireland after his horse, Kilkenny, sustained a nose bleed during the individual final at the Baji Keon Equestrian Park today.

The nine-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding, who is owned by Sue Magnier, jumped his heart out to finish with just a single time fault and joint-seventh in the individual competition. Team vet Marcus Swail said the horse has recovered quickly but Cian has decided not to jump in the team competition on Friday.

Swail said: “Kilkenny jumped outstanding again today for Cian. Unfortunately he sustained a nose bleed towards the end of his round. He recovered quickly and all vitals were normal. He was subject to further examination at the on-site veterinary clinic and the horse is now comfortable and back in his stable.”

Cian O’Connor said: “I’ve decided not to put Kilkenny forward for the team competition as his well-being comes first and I’ve no doubt we will have much success together in the future. I’ll be here on the ground to help my team mates win a medal.”

In a video at the stables afterwards sent to The Irish Field, Kilkenny looks in great form eating carrots.

Shane Sweetnam and Alejandro will step in for the team competition as the alternate rider.

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