It was a proud day for Kildare native Judy Reynolds in Rio De Janeiro yesterday as she became the first Irish athlete to ever qualify for an Olympic Freestyle Dressage final by following up her superb performance on Thursday with an equally composed display on Friday.
Aboard her horse Vancouver K, Reynolds was handed a score of 74.090- identical to Thursday's score- and that guaranteed her a top 18 finish, meaning she will compete in the final on Monday. Scores are calculated on the judges examinations of the horse's walk, trot and canter.
The German-based rider took to social media to express her delight after the event.
"I am thrilled and honoured to be representing Team Ireland in the Freestyle Final on Monday in Rio. I am so happy and want to thank my amazing team, my mom and dad, my husband and my groom Elizabeth.
"The biggest thanks goes to my best friend JP (Vancouver K) #TwoHearts."
Get in!!!!!!!!!!! Olympic Finalist 😆 JP is quite simply the best horse EVER!!!!! So very proud… https://t.co/F9CtCTj9IL
— judy reynolds (@JudyReynoldsIRL) August 12, 2016
If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Kildare Now editorial team. Between 9am and 5pm Monday to Sunday please call 045 409350. Between 5pm and midnight please call or text 086 729 0010. Or you can email content@kildarenow.com at any time.