Kurten turns down Olympic place

Jessica Kurten competed in the Olympics in 1996 and 2004

Jessica Kurten has decided not to compete for Ireland in the show jumping at the Beijing Olympics.

The world number two from Co Antrim said her mount Quibell is a nervous flyer and conditions in Hong Kong could prove difficult for the 14-year-old.

Quibell is also currently out of action because of an injury while the Northern Ireland show jumper's other top horse Maike was recently sold.

"I will be hoping to make the team for the 2012 London Olympics," said Kurten.

Kurten's performances on the international circuit have secured an individual place for Ireland.

"Maike would have been the top potential for the Olympics but Maike has been sold," added Kurten.

"Quibell is really a bad flier and after I won in Dubai, I had to promise her that she wouldn't have to fly again.

A few factors have come together Jessica Kurten

"Also, it's not just the same excitement to go to the Olympics as an individual.

"Unfortunately, she (Quibell) also incurred an injury last week which would put her out for about six weeks which would leave training time a little bit short.

"So a few factors have come together."

Irish Show Jumping manager Robert Splaine spoke of his his sadness at Kurten's decision.

"It's a pity Jessica will not be available - I'm now focusing on filling that place," said Splaine.

He added: "As world number two she would have been one of the favourites for the games.

"The reality is that riders need as much notice as possible to prepare for the games so I will be moving to make a decision on this quickly."

I wish the horse-and-rider combination who flys the Irish tricolour in Hong Kong the very best of luck Jessica Kurten

Splaine will announce the horse and rider to compete for Ireland next Tuesday in Kildare.

Kurten made her decision together with horse-owner Lady Georgina Forbes.

"To compete at the Olympics is a dream for every rider and I wish the horse-and-rider combination who flies the Irish tricolour in Hong Kong the very best of luck," said Kurten.

The 38-year-old will start a two-month ban on 7 June after Castle Forbes Maike's positive result for a banned substance.

The horse tested positive for etoricoxib during a competition at La Baule in France in May last year.

Kurten denied any knowledge of the drug, refused the chance to accept a fine and appealed the decision.

Her ban runs to 6 August, which would have made her available for the show jumping in the Olympics.