4 minute read
Behind the Reins: Shane Sweetnam Speaks with Kevin O’Connor
By KEVIN O’CONNOR 2003 & 2023 Special Olympian World Athlete
Shane Sweetnam, an accomplished Irish showjumper, has made a significant mark on the international equestrian scene. Competing in the 2020 Summer Olympics and numerous prestigious competitions.
When you were small did you always want to be a show Jumper?
I have ridden since I was 4 or 5 and I know I started competing at 7 yrs old. Between education and other sports, GAA with Castlemagner at the same time. So I had a lot of things going but probably realized after college at around 22 years old that I wanted to do it professionally.
Who got you into riding horses?
My parents Maria and Jerry Sweetnam. Being the youngest of five and all of them rode and my parents having a real passion for horses and showjumping, it became part of my everyday life very early.
Who was your very first coach?
At the start my parents, that was the way back then. Now there is a lot more coaching systems in place. But since I turned professional I have been lucky to have had some very good coaches like Roelof Bril(Holland), Margie Engle(Usa) and the famous Gerry Mullins(Irish army rider).
When did you start jumping around the world?
I started competing in Europe when I was about 15 on ponies. Then a bit in in Europe also in juniors. But probably more seriously Internationally when I started jumping on the senior Irish team when I was 26 with the great horse, Amaretto Darco.
What kind of training and dieting do you have to do?
I like to run and workout at least 3 times a week. As I get older, it’simportant to have a good core and I also think it’s great for my head. Diet wise, I try to keep it simple and healthy enough. But I do have a sweet tooth. lol.
What kind of the course have you never jumped in?
I have been lucky in my career that I have competed at all the major shows in the world and done all the championships. Very lucky.
Tell me about James Kann Cruz and Alejandro. What kind of Pedigree do they have?
James kann Cruz is an Irish bred horse from Galway. He is really special and loves the big occasion. He loves the job. Alejandro is German bred. Who is retired at home in Castlemagner now. He was a very talented horse and had so many great results.
If you did do a Show jumping charitable event what would it be?
I always try to support Down syndrome charities because of my brother Diarmuid. So if it’s special Olympics or Down syndrome Ireland or st Joseph’s foundation, all great charities.
In the sport of Show Jumping who is your legend of all time?
Eddie Macken of course. I think any Irish rider would say Eddie, a legend in the sport all over the world and most importantly a gentleman.
Did you jump under the Manager of Robert Splaine? What kind of Manager was he?
Robert gave me my debut on the Irish team and more caps after and I will always appreciate those opportunites.
Tell me all about your first Olympics.
Tokyo was a very hard experience but you have to learn from these experiences and get stronger. So this time around we are coming back stronger and in good form to do our best.
What kind of transport and gear do you have to carry over different competitions all over the world and what is your favourite horse?
So from USA to Europe, the horses fly on containers made into standing stalls for the horses. Then they travel by horse trucks from place to place. They get looked after impeccably by their grooms Maria Israelsson and Seamus Mckeever. They get worked out, field and spa everyday. Like my kids they are all my favorite lol.
