Top Irish rider Cian O’Connor has been forced to take a break from riding due to a groin injury sustained while competing in Eschweiler, Germany. As a consequence, the 2012 Olympic bronze medallist will miss out on planned Nations Cup appearances in La Baule and Rome.

On his official Facebook page, O’Connor writes:

“I'd like to thank Helena Stormanns, show organiser, and the Allen family for their help both at the show and in pointing me in the right direction on the road to recovery. 

I was really looking forward to being part of the Irish teams at La Baule and Rome and indeed my GCL team Miami Glory in Madrid, but unfortunately under doctor’s advice it is best I miss these outings. 

I'll now focus my efforts on getting my injury healed first and foremost, as well as coaching my students. It's far from ideal but it could always be worse!”

At World of Showjumping we wish Cian a quick recovery and hope to see him back in the saddle soon!

Source: Cian O'Connor's official Facebook page // Picture © Jenny Abrahamsson