Ireland Clinches Third Consecutive Nations Cup Victory at Thunderbird Show Park

The Irish squad proved once again why they’re considered a powerhouse in show jumping, capturing their third consecutive win in the $75,000 FEI CSIO4* Nations Cup 1.55m at Thunderbird Show Park in Langley, BC. After previous victories in 2022 and 2023 (with no event held in 2024), the so-called “Irish Dream Team” returned in top form to dominate Sunday’s marquee team event at the Odlum Brown BC Open.

Led by Chef d’Équipe Michael Blake, Ireland’s team of Conor Swail, Daniel Coyle, Jordan Coyle, and Christian Coyle put on a commanding performance, finishing on just eight faults to seal the win over seven nations. Swail opened with a brilliant clear on My Lady Lavista, the 11-year-old mare (Mylord Carthago x Levisto) making her team debut. Daniel Coyle, fresh off wins in both the qualifier and Grand Prix earlier in the week, delivered another clutch performance aboard his longtime partner Farrel (Cardento x Stakkato), the same horse he rode to Nations Cup victory back in 2019.

Jordan Coyle added his trademark speed and consistency, while Christian Coyle, debuting his 11-year-old Extravaganza Semilly (Jarnac x Heartbreaker), showcased his growing experience at the five-star level. Together, the Irish family quartet brought home a win they’ve long dreamed of achieving side-by-side in team colors.

Canada, supported by Chef d’Équipe Ian Millar and Team Manager Karen Hendry-Ouellette, delivered a proud performance for the home crowd. With Tiffany Foster (Battlecry), Ali Ramsay (Conrado 12), Vanessa Mannix (Kingston), and Mario Deslauriers (Emerson) in the lineup, the Canadians posted 12 faults total, tying Mexico but securing second place on time.

Tiffany Foster set the tone with a foot-perfect first round, while Ramsay and Mannix each incurred just a rail. Deslauriers, always dependable under pressure, closed with a clear. The team’s second round was more costly, but Ramsay came back fighting with a clean effort to end her weekend on a high note.

Mexico settled for third with solid performances by Eugenio Garza Perez, Juan Pablo Jimenez, Alejandro Mills, and Patricio Pasquel, while Team USA rounded out the top four on 20 faults.

Thunderbird’s Nations Cup remains one of the most anticipated team events in North America, and Ireland’s continued dominance only fuels the rivalry heading into the heart of the season. With Olympic selections looming and team cohesion stronger than ever, Ireland’s depth and determination were on full display in Langley — and the rest of the world will be watching.