Macken and Kurten in Aga Khan squad

Equestrian : Jessica Kurten and Eddie Macken have been included in an extended Ireland squad ahead of the Aga Khan at Dublin…

Equestrian: Jessica Kurten and Eddie Macken have been included in an extended Ireland squad ahead of the Aga Khan at Dublin Horse Show next month.

Macken's form at Hickstead over the weekend means the 59-year-old is in with a chance of featuring on Tedechine Sept, while Kurten's presence after a Grand Prix win in Gijon at the weekend is a boost.

Edward Doyle is also included meaning Hickstead competitors Capt. David O'Brien and Marion Hughes miss out, despite the latter registering the best Irish score in the Longines Classic on Saturday.

Denis Lynch is the only rider included who will be competing in next month's Olympics.

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Four competitors from the five will be selected to compete by team manager Robert Splaine on Thursday week.

"I am fortunate to be able to call on five very experienced riders with horses who can perform at this level," said Splaine this afternoon. "This is a vital Nations Cup for us, not just because it's the Aga Khan but also due to our position in the Super League. Put simply this is a competition we need to win."

Extended Ireland squad for Aga Khan

Edward Doyle; Sequoyah Farms Utopia
Jessica Kurten; Castle Forbes Libertina
Denis Lynch; Nabab's Son
Eddie Macken; First Tedechine Sept
Cian O'Connor; Complete or Rancorrado