Michael edgings close to Olympic selection

Michael Ryan and Old Road in action during the Badminton Horse Trials last year.

Bandon-based equestrian rider Michael Ryan has made the short-list for the Irish team of at least three riders that will contest the Olympic Games in London next month.

Ryan was brought to the attention of selectors following his particularly strong performance earlier this year at Ballindenisk International on his reliable charge Old Road.

Currently, Ireland is assured an Olympic team of at least three riders, but this could increase to four or five, depending on the places taken up by eligible combinations for other countries.

Michael Ryan and his wife Patricia (nee Donegan) have represented Ireland at European and European equestrian events, and with Patricia having been to the Olympics twice previously, the pair’s joint resumé is missing only an Olympic event for Michael.

Patricia Ryan said: “This is the highest honour for any athlete and I would like Mike to get the chance to fly the flag. It’s a hard one to call, but I know Mike has worked very hard to get to the level that he is at now with his horses.”