Irish rider Darragh Kenny and his owner Ann Thompson of the United States have today announced the formal dissolution of their partnership.

For the past three years, Kenny has competed several horses owned by Thompson at the international level including his top horse Balou du Reventon, as well as Classic Dream, Important de Muze and Romeo 88. Thompson also owns Gelano and the seven-year-old Delta de la Rasse.

In 2019, the now 14-year-old Balou du Reventon was Kenny’s partner at the FEI Longines European Championships in Rotterdam, as well as a part of Ireland’s winning squad at the FEI Nations Cup Final in Barcelona. With Kenny in the saddle, Balou du Reventon also won the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Chantilly and the Rolex Grand Prix of Knokke as well as placing second in the Prague Super Grand Prix. 

“With the COVID-19 outbreak having such a huge toll here in America, I explained to Darragh that it was important for me personally to reorganize my level of involvement in the sport horse industry and concentrate on my work with animals in need,” said Thompson in a statement released today. “I do not plan on leaving the sport completely, but it is time for an evaluation of my priorities. Darragh understands my passion, and I appreciate his support for my decision."

“It has been a pleasure to support him, and to get to know the people in his circle, especially his parents whom I adore,” continued Thompson. “Of course, I feel the sadness that comes with the ending of any meaningful partnership, but I will always have the great memories of Darragh’s accomplishments on my horses. Darragh was not only my rider but a friend. I’m lucky to still have my friend.”

In the same statement, Kenny said: “Over the last few weeks, Ann has explained to me that her priorities have changed, and that she wishes to focus on her foundation work rescuing horses. While I am terribly disappointed as we’ve had such a fabulous partnership, I do understand. Anyone who knows Ann will be aware of how passionate she is about animal rescue. I am immensely grateful to Ann for everything she has done for me over the years, and I will miss her and her horses very much. I wish her only the best and will always value our friendship.”