Fine Gael Wicklow Deputy, Andrew Doyle, has this afternoon (Wednesday) congratulated Cian O’Connor and Blue Lloyd on taking the bronze medal in the Olympic equestrian individual show-jumping final.

“It has been a long road back from Athens for Cian, who performed spectacularly this afternoon in London. Cian’s horse, Blue Lloyd, is owned by Charles and Barbara O’Reilly Hyland from Wicklow who have been fantastic supporters of the sport horse industry in Ireland for many years. Today’s triumph is a fitting reward for all their hard work and loyally to the industry.

“There were 16 Irish-bred horses representing 9 countries in the London Olympics 2012, with Zara Philips’ and her horse, High Kingdom, taking the silver medal in the team event. It is estimated that the equestrian industry in Ireland is worth in the region of €400 million, and supports the equivalent of 16,000 full-time jobs. The duo’s success today will act as a huge boost to the Irish show jumping sector and to the Irish sport horse industry generally.

“Cian and Blue Lloyd’s performance throughout was full of drama and suspense; from being recalled to the competition this morning after another competitor pulled out, to the dramatic jump-off which saw Cian pick up a bronze medal.

“The value today’s win will have on the international stage, in terms of boosting the Irish profile, is immense. Everyone involved in today’s success is to be congratulated on their hard work and tremendous effort.”

Ends