Jessica Harrington and Eric McNamara have paid tribute to “fantastic rider and human being” Captain Con Power following the legendary jumper’s death at the age of 71.

Power, who received his first call-up in 1976, was a member of the Aga Khan’s famous Ireland team that won three consecutive matches from 1977 to 1979, alongside three different horses in James Kernan, Eddie Macken and the late Paul Darragh. In Coolronan, Castlepark and Rockbarton.

It was a productive period for Power, who was the leading rider at the Dublin Horse Show in 1976 and 1979, as well as at Ostend, Washington, New York and Toronto in 1978 and Aachen in 1979.

Power’s son Robbie is a Gold Cup and Grand National-winning rider and one of Ireland’s most decorated jump jockeys. Daughter Elizabeth has had great success in eventing and show jumping, including winning the Dublin Horse Show in 2019.

Harrington, one of Ireland’s best racing riders, paid tribute to his mentor and said: “He was a great teacher and person. He helped me a lot when I got into competitions. We’ve come a long way and he was very important to me.” show jumping teacher.

“Someone said he could see a stride from one end of the RDS arena to the other. He had such a driving style, long handling and legs and was a fantastic driver and teacher.

“She was with Eddie Macken, Paul Darragh and James Kernan at the time. They were absolutely charming and Con was the loveliest person.”

McNamara, who competed in show jumping with Power, said: “Great Captain. We were great friends for years and he was always very kind to me during our show jumping days.

“What a great man and what a great rider. Above all, he was a great family man and raised his children to be great people and world-class athletes.

“He will be greatly missed by his wife Mags and may he rest in peace. He was a star and an incredible competitor. He achieved so much, winning many international competitions around the world.”