Athlete Spotlight: Conor Swail & Casturano
When it comes to show jumping’s elite, Conor Swail has cemented his place among the best. Hailing from Ireland and currently ranked in the top 10 of the Longines Jumping Rankings, Swail’s 2024 victory at the Kentucky Invitational CSI4* presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute remains one of the most thrilling moments in recent equestrian history.
A Night to Remember at Kentucky
With a crowd of over 10,700 fans packed into Rolex Stadium, the atmosphere on the night of the 2024 Kentucky Invitational was electric. Thirty-eight horse-and-rider pairs tackled Guilherme Jorge’s first-round course, a challenging design with 13 numbered jumps and 16 jumping efforts that tested precision, speed, and partnership.
As the competition narrowed, only six pairs advanced to the jump-off, where Swail and his talented 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding, Casturano, delivered a breathtaking performance. Cantering into the ring as the second-to-last pair, they delivered a flawless, double-clear round in a blistering 40.960 seconds, seizing the lead and claiming victory over an elite international field.
Reflecting on his rising star Casturano, Swail said:
"I've had him for around a year. The horse jumps clear after clear after clear, and the confidence you get from jumping a horse with so much ability and how much he's grown over the last year—it’s incredible. If he keeps doing what he's doing, I think he'll end up one of the best horses in the world. I'm so lucky to have him, and I'm looking forward to what's coming next with him."
Of course, Swail’s four-legged partner wasn’t the only one there to celebrate—the ever-present Ralph, Swail’s loyal dog, added to the charm of the champion’s victory lap.
A Stellar 2024 Showjumping Season
Swail’s momentum didn’t stop after Kentucky. Competing in the Major League Show Jumping Series (MLSJ) with the Trawlany Trailblazers, Swail and his team dominated the 2024 season. The Trailblazers clinched back-to-back championships, with Swail contributing significantly:
- 1 individual win
- 2 podium finishes
- 6 top-10 placements
- An impressive 64% clearance rate
His consistent excellence earned him the title of MVP for the series, further solidifying his reputation as one of the sport’s top competitors.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Kentucky International
As we gear up for the 2025 Kentucky International, now elevated to a CSI5* competition, all eyes are on Swail. With his dynamic partnership with Casturano and a proven ability to shine on the world stage, Swail has the potential to leave an even bigger mark this year.
Will Swail and Casturano return to Rolex Stadium to defend their title? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—the crowd will be watching, and the energy will be unforgettable.
Stay tuned for more updates as we count down to the 2025 Kentucky International!
