“It’s not been the yr I deliberate,” sums up Trevor Breen in episode 158 of The Horse & Hound Podcast, in partnership with STX-UK – the official UK importer of Stephex horseboxes. “However that’s showjumping for you.”
The Irish showjumper has made a outstanding restoration after struggling a damaged and dislocated neck and again in a fall in Hamburg in Might, simply weeks forward of the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Trevor is now again within the saddle and he made a welcome return to the showjumping ring not too long ago, however it’s been a troublesome journey for him and his household.
“I hit the bottom head first, which crushed my backbone and did the injury,” says Trevor of the autumn which got here at an oxer throughout the Hamburg grand prix on Highland President. “It wouldn’t even charge within the high 10 falls in my profession however it’s the primary fall I’ve not received up and walked away from.”
Happily for Trevor, he instantly acquired first-rate medical care within the ring, earlier than being whisked to hospital the place he was later operated on.
“Enormous credit score to the Hamburg staff,” displays a really grateful Trevor, who was initially instructed he could by no means trip once more. “I’m the kind of one that offers with no matter is in entrance of me so I used to be considering, ‘OK, so if I can’t trip once more, what does my life seem like?’”
Trevor Breen: wanting ahead to leaping on the high degree once more
Defying the chances nevertheless, Trevor was strolling inside days and was in a position to return dwelling inside two weeks to proceed his recuperation.
“I slept so much – they are saying you heal greatest while you’re sleeping, in order that was a constructive factor,” says Trevor, who additionally took to strolling so much – each day and night time – till he felt able to return to the saddle.
His alternative of horse was at all times going to be his beloved home-bred Archie, aka Highland President, with whom Trevor gained staff silver on the 2023 European Showjumping Championships in Milan.
“I wouldn’t get off him – I jumped a few cavaletti – it simply felt good!” says Trevor.
There’s now lots for the twin Hickstead Derby winner to be enthusiastic about, with journeys to Spain adopted by Dubai imminent and a few thrilling younger horses stepping up.
“There are some sensible reveals on the market in Dubai, however I really like taking part in golf as nicely and I haven’t swung a golf membership because the accident, so hopefully I can return to that too!” says Trevor, who will probably be accompanied by spouse and fellow showjumper Caroline Breen.
Hear Trevor Breen speak extra about his fall, his outstanding restoration and his deliberate comeback to the game’s high degree by tuning in to episode 158 of The Horse & Hound Podcast, in partnership with STX-UK, or search “The Horse & Hound Podcast” in your favorite podcast app.
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Trevor Breen and his home-bred Highland President, who jumped clear on day one of many European Showjumping Championships in Milan, Italy.
Eire’s Michael Duffy and Cinca 3 within the Nations Cup at Dublin Horse Present.
Credit score: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile by way of Getty Pictures
Trevor Breen and Jicarla T on the London Worldwide Horse Present 2022
Paul Beecher and Loughnatousa W B
Credit score: Lucy Merrell
Credit score: Future
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H&H showjumping editor
Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her function as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her world wide reporting from reveals and interviewing riders, connections and people concerned behind the scenes. Since becoming a member of H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on each topic throughout the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to secure administration — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She additionally has first-hand expertise of working within the equestrian business as a driving teacher and yard supervisor.
