PLUSVITAL PREMIER SERIES 2026: JASON FOLEY CROWNED NATIONAL CHAMPION

The 2026 Plusvital Premier Series came to a thrilling conclusion on Monday, August 31st, at the Irish Breeders Classic, with Jason Foley and Cute Face crowned the 2026 National Champions following a hugely competitive summer-long series.

The final leg saw 34 combinations take to the start line at Barnadown, with just 10 progressing through to the second round. Four combinations went on to produce double-clear performances, with Jessica Burke and Fly For You taking the win in a winning time of 43.86 seconds.

The 11-year-old mare, by Quaprice Boimargot Quincy out of a L’Arc de Triomphe mare, delivered an impressive performance to take the final leg victory.

Burke also secured fourth place with Billy Fern, owned by Brian McConville of Ballyward Stables, after another double-clear performance.

Francis Connors and Carrigshawn Vendi Royal finished second, with Tim McDonagh and Hollypark Galloway taking third. Coen Williams and Dominante Z finished fifth, while junior rider Lauren Adams and Caddie Z took sixth.

FOLEY CROWNED NATIONAL CHAMPION

While the final leg provided plenty of excitement, all eyes were also on the overall standings as the Plusvital Premier Series reached its conclusion.

After seven legs at some of the country's leading venues throughout the summer, it was Jason Foley and Cute Face who emerged as the 2026 National Champions.

Based with Castlefield Sporthorses, Foley produced a consistently strong performance throughout the series to finish at the top of the leaderboard and claim the title for the first time.

Speaking after his victory, Jason said:

“It’s great to be National Champion for the first time, something that I have always wanted to do. The series has been brilliant, very competitive. It’s very special for us home riders to use this league to gain access into the 5* in Dublin and keep us focused.”

TWO WILDCARD SPOTS TO DUBLIN

The Plusvital Premier Series once again provided a pathway to the biggest stage, with the top two wildcard spots for the 5 at the Dublin Horse Show* going to Jason Foley and Francis Derwin.

Both riders went on to make the most of the opportunity, producing exceptional performances in the €1 million Rolex Grand Prix at the 2026 Dublin Horse Show.

From its opening leg through to the final at the Irish Breeders Classic, the 2026 Plusvital Premier Series showcased the depth of Irish show jumping and gave riders the opportunity to compete for valuable prizes, points and a place on the international stage.

Congratulations to Jason Foley and Cute Face, our 2026 National Champions, and to all of the riders, owners, horses and teams who made this year's Plusvital Premier Series such a success.