An Inside Look into how Grace O’Connor Has Turned Her Passion in to Her Profession
A 23-year-old equestrian from Summerhill, County Meath, is carving out a name for herself in Ireland’s competitive show jumping scene, combining international experience with a growing home-based business.
Grace O’Connor, owner of GOC Sport Horses, has been immersed in the equestrian world since the age of 10. What began as a childhood hobby quickly developed into a serious pursuit after her natural ability in the saddle became clear.
Recognizing her potential early on, O’Connor’s parents moved her from a local riding school to train under a highly accomplished coach, an Olympic-level rider who had represented Ireland on multiple occasions. She remained there for nearly five years, progressing rapidly.
During that time, O’Connor competed as part of the Irish team, reaching European-level competition before the age of 18. She later transitioned fully into show jumping, where she has continued to represent Ireland in international competitions.
After completing her Leaving Certificate, O’Connor made the decision to forgo traditional higher education, opting instead to pursue a career in the equestrian industry. She enrolled at Mountbellew Agricultural College, where she completed her Green Cert, gaining the practical and business knowledge needed to establish her own operation.
Today, O’Connor runs GOC Sport Horses, focusing on the development and production of young horses. Her business model revolves around sourcing horses at an early age, typically between one and three years old, before breaking, training, and preparing them for competition.
In addition to producing her own stock, O’Connor also works closely with clients, offering sales and campaigning services for horses that require further experience or exposure. She regularly competes client horses to build their show records and increase their market value. Alongside this, she operates a successful livery programme, providing tailored care and training for horses owned by clients.
She also maintains a small breeding programme, with three broodmares ensuring a consistent line of homebred young stock.
“I’m really passionate about producing my own young horses,” O’Connor said. “Seeing them grow and develop from such a young age into competition horses is incredibly rewarding.”
Life in the equestrian industry comes with its challenges, particularly in Ireland’s often unpredictable weather. However, O’Connor says the variety and connection with the animals make it worthwhile.
“No two days are ever the same,” she explained. “Horses are just like people—they all have their own personalities and quirks. Some days are tough, especially in the rain, but others make it all worth it—whether you’re competing or even just riding on the beach. It clears your mind.”
Despite already achieving international experience, O’Connor remains focused on future ambitions. Like many Irish riders, she dreams of competing at the highest level of the sport.
Her ultimate goal is to ride in the main arena at the Dublin Horse Show Aga Khan Nations Cup—one of the most prestigious competitions in Irish show jumping.
“Every little girl dreams of riding in the RDS and jumping on the Aga Khan team,” she said. “That dream has never left me—and to do it on a horse I’ve produced myself would mean everything.”
As her business continues to grow, O’Connor represents a new generation of Irish riders combining traditional horsemanship with entrepreneurial ambition—keeping Ireland’s strong equestrian heritage firmly in motion.
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