Tipperary man to design equestrian jumping course for 2028 Olympics

Sarah Slater

A Tipperary man is to design the equestrian jumping course for the 2028 Olympics to be held in Los Angeles.

Alan Wade, a highly experienced and respected show jumping course designer has previously created the courses for the FEI World Equestrian Games 2018 in Tryon in the US. He also was the assistant course designer at the London 2012 Olympic Games alongside English man Bob Ellis.

Mr Wade grew up immersed in equestrian sport and began designing his first tracks at the age of 12 at local gymkhanas. His father was Tommy Wade, who was part of Ireland’s winning Aga Khan Cup team in 1963 and 1967.

He said that he is “grateful” to the FEI Board and Olympic Games LA 28 organising committee for "entrusting him with the important role of creating the courses and fence designs”.

The Tipperary native began his professional career designing the main arena of the Dublin Horse Show for the first time in 2009. He has also designed in Rotterdam, Istanbul, Abu Dhabi, Lisbon, and Rabat.

His reputation for excellence has crossed the Atlantic and his popularity has grown in North America. The majority of his designs are now created for shows in the US, Canada and Mexico.

Dublin Horse Show organisers said they are “thrilled” to hear that Mr Wade has been appointed to design the show jumping courses for the 2028 Olympic Games.

Show organisers continued: “Alan’s international career began in the RDS Main Arena in 2009, and he has since become one of the most renowned and respected course designers in the world.

"From European Championships to World Cups, Alan’s courses have challenged and showcased the world’s best horses and riders. We are honoured and proud to see him representing Ireland on the global stage.

"Alan, your exceptional talent, passion, hard work, and dedication have earned you this fantastic opportunity.”

The Olympic Games LA28 will take place from July 14th to 30th 2028.

Equestrian competitions will be staged at Santa Anita Equestrian Park in Arcadia and will feature team and individual competitions.

A total of 200 athletes and horses will compete in the equestrian events.