Whether they are competing at grass roots level or at the pinnacle of their sport, training is an essential part of any rider’s regime. Every winning horse and rider combination puts in hours of preparation to reach their goal and coaches are often an integral part of a team working behind the scenes to lay the groundwork for success.

One such coach is Co Louth-based Johnny O’Connell, who travels to meet coaching clients and also operates out of Kilronan EC in Swords, Co Dublin.