A brilliant performance from the Irish under 18 (junior) show jumping team of Max Wachman, Ella Quigley, Caragh Charlton and Tom Wachman, managed by James Kernan, saw them claim an outstanding victory in a hotly-contested Nations Cup on Saturday at Wierden in The Netherlands.

At the halfway point, Ireland were in joint-first place with Belgium on just one time fault thanks to clear rounds from Max Wachman (Dorette), Caragh Charlton (Galina) and a time fault from Tom Wachman (Atlantic Du Seigneur).

Max Wachman and Dorette got Ireland off to a perfect start in the second round when he completed a double clear round – one of just two riders to do so in the competition.

A clear from Ella Quigley with Horinde H then put Ireland into the outright lead and when Caragh Charlton lowered just a single fence when second last to go, Ireland could not be beaten.

Ireland finished on a two round total of five faults to finish a fence ahead of Belgium in second while Germany finished third of the 11 teams that took part.

Speaking afterwards, Irish team manager James Kernan said:“I am absolutely delighted with all our team, they were fantastic. Coming into the competition the two Wachman brothers had some match practice but the others not so much. It was a tough Nations Cup and I have to say I think the standard of riding and the standard of horses has really moved up a level over the last year. It is outstanding to win the first Nations Cup of the year for Ireland and I want to thank all the owners, trainers, sponsors and Horse Sport Ireland for their support.”