Irish show jumping athlete Darragh Kenny and owner Ann Thompson of the United States have announced the formal dissolution of their partnership.
For the past three years, Kenny, who is currently ranked 7th on the FEI Longines world standings, has competed with several horses owned by Thompson at the international level including Balou de Reventon (member of the winning Irish squad at the Nations Cup Final in Barcelona last year, 8th individually, and most recently 6th in the Grand Prix at Hubside in St-Tropez); Classic Dream (winner of the WC class at Deeridge in February); Important de Muze, recently ridden by Sadri Fegaier (FRA); and Romeo 88 (2nd in the Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final this past December). She also owns Gelano and the promising seven-year-old young horse, Delta de la Rasse.
“With the COVID-19 outbreak having such a huge toll here in America, I explained to Darragh that it was important for me personally to reorganize my level of involvement in the sport horse industry and concentrate on my work with animals in need,” said Thompson. “I do not plan on leaving the sport completely, but it is time for an evaluation of my priorities. Darragh understands my passion, and I appreciate his support for my decision.
“It has been a pleasure to support him, and to get to know the people in his circle, especially his parents whom I adore,” continued Thompson. “Of course, I feel the sadness that comes with the ending of any meaningful partnership, but I will always have the great memories of Darragh’s accomplishments on my horses. Darragh was not only my rider but a friend. I’m lucky to still have my friend.”
Kenny said, “Over the last few weeks, Ann has explained to me that her priorities have changed, and that she wishes to focus on her foundation work rescuing horses. While I am terribly disappointed as we’ve had such a fabulous partnership, I do understand. Anyone who knows Ann will be aware of how passionate she is about animal rescue. I am immensely grateful to Ann for everything she has done for me over the years, and I will miss her and her horses very much. I wish her only the best and will always value our friendship.”
No information has yet been released regarding plans for the competition horses.
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