Introduction
The adage “The harder you work, the luckier you get” rings true for show jumper Tom Foley. While perhaps blessed with a touch of Irish luck, it’s his unwavering hard work and determination that have truly shaped his burgeoning career. This drive propelled him across the Atlantic to establish Tom Foley Show Jumpers in the United States, marking a significant chapter in his life dedicated to the equestrian sport.
From Irish Fields to American Rings
Born and raised in Ireland, Tom’s equestrian journey began at the tender age of three, surrounded by horses. His sister’s riding and competing, alongside his father’s foxhunting, created an environment where a passion for horses could easily flourish. By 24, horses are not just a part of his life; they are his life. He cannot envision a future without them.
Tom attributes his parents’ encouragement as instrumental in nurturing his love for show jumping, supporting him from his earliest pony rides to his Grand Prix victories. The decision to move to the United States presented a significant change for his family, who now watch his competitions from afar, a stark contrast to their daily involvement when he was in Ireland.
Early Equestrian Foundations in Ireland
Like many Irish equestrians, Tom’s formative years were spent with horses and ponies in his own backyard. This hands-on approach, characterized by simply “getting on, playing around and having fun,” was supplemented by experiences at local riding schools and foxhunting.
The equestrian landscape in Ireland differs markedly from the United States. The sport’s greater affordability in Ireland makes it more accessible. Moreover, Irish stables are predominantly sales and livery-focused, unlike the client-based barns common in the United States, where owners typically compete their own horses.
Tom’s early career was enriched by riding a vast array of ponies and horses, each contributing to his development as an equestrian. He believes these talented horses were pivotal in shaping his riding skills and abilities.
The pony jumper division holds significant importance in Ireland. Tom’s initial Grand Prix experience was with his accomplished small pony, Muskerry Crusader, with whom he secured numerous 1.10m Grand Prix wins.
Following Muskerry Crusader, Tom’s father acquired a foxhunting pony named Cherokee Breeze, recognizing its potential as a jumper due to its ability to clear stone walls. Initially, Cherokee Breeze proved a handful, often veering off course and jumping out of the arena, with a penchant for returning to the horse truck.
Despite these early challenges, Tom’s father saw the pony’s inherent quality and persevered in training him for the show ring. Cherokee Breeze evolved into a remarkable jumper, winning the “pony owners” (13.2 hands) Grand Prix for four consecutive years. This experience underscored the profound value of perseverance for Tom.
As Tom’s physical stature and talent grew, Cherokee Breeze was exchanged for Dibidoe. This pony propelled Tom to his first 16-and-under European Championship in 2010, where they earned a team silver medal and ranked among the top four individually. After a few more years in the pony ranks, the transition to horses and the senior Grand Prix level became imminent.
In 2012, Tom led the Munster Grand Prix League for young riders (under 21) on his horse Paddy Fly. This victory not only earned him a title but also a training bursary. Such bursaries offer young riders the invaluable opportunity to enhance their training and broaden their experience under the tutelage of a top international trainer. At 16, Tom seized this opportunity, traveling to the United States to train with fellow Irishman Shane Sweetnam.
Shane had encouraged Tom to contact him should he wish to return, hinting at potential opportunities. Following his initial trip, Tom returned the subsequent winter for three months before securing his visa and moving permanently to the States. Shane fulfilled his promise, aiding Tom in navigating the professional show jumping circuit in America.
Forging a New Path
After several years under Shane’s mentorship, Tom felt ready to embark on his own independent path. Staying connected to his Irish heritage, he spent three years working for Cormac Kennedy at Mor Linn Farm in Massachusetts. This period proved instrumental, as it opened numerous doors and facilitated introductions to many influential figures in the horse world.
It was through these connections that Tom met Andy Kocher. Tom’s exceptional work ethic and persistence eventually led to a job offer from Andy in 2019. Andy recounts Tom’s consistent presence at his barn, riding horses daily without seeking anything in return, which eventually led to a paid position.
Tom’s dedication to Andy’s horses and program earned him increasing responsibilities. Andy provided Tom with a string of horses, a truck, and a trailer, essentially setting him up to operate independently. While Andy offered guidance on selecting shows and provided contacts, the primary objective was for Tom to manage the sales of these horses.
This mutually beneficial arrangement allowed Tom to launch his own venture. Andy entrusted him with a portfolio of sales horses, encompassing both young and experienced equine athletes, for his program. Tom assumed responsibility for their daily training, showing, and marketing for sale.
Tom has since achieved consistent top results with his sales horses at competitions nationwide. He currently manages his operation of 10–15 horses from a private facility in Roswell, Georgia.
The Cornerstone of Success: Consistency
Tom firmly believes that consistency is the bedrock of success for both himself and his horses. He emphasizes that hard work, dedicated hours, and consistent training are the precursors to achieving success. Even during his early days with Cherokee Breeze, Tom learned that perseverance and consistency yield significant rewards.
Tom’s program is built upon establishing strong fundamentals and a solid foundation, enabling him to deliver valuable results applicable across all equestrian disciplines. He highlights the necessity of consistency in flatwork and training to produce desired outcomes, stressing that persistence is crucial, even when facing initial setbacks. Trusting in consistent effort, he asserts, will ultimately lead to the desired results.
He strives to maintain a straightforward and consistent program, allowing his horses the time and space to develop properly. Tom states, “Without routine and consistency, everything goes out the door.” He ensures each horse receives every opportunity to succeed and thrive at all levels of the sport, recognizing that a healthy, happy horse is a pleasure to work with.
By fostering a comfortable and predictable routine for his horses, Tom ensures a positive outcome for all involved. He describes the process as potentially slow but exceptionally rewarding when successful.
Future Aspirations
With a strong support system in place, Tom looks forward to the future of both his personal career and his business. His ultimate goal is for Tom Foley Show Jumpers to be a thriving operation, housing a diverse mix of sales horses, developing young horses, competition mounts, and client horses.
Tom is quick to acknowledge that his accomplishments in the United States are a collective effort. He credits his girlfriend, Hannah Murrin, for managing and providing exceptional care for all the horses in his barn. He also expresses gratitude for the opportunities afforded by working with Andy Kocher and anticipates their continued collaboration will lead to future successes.
Based on Tom’s current trajectory and dedication, his future in show jumping appears exceptionally bright. Andy Kocher predicts that with continued focus on his business and the expansion of his skills, Tom is poised for immense success.
For further information, visit www.tomfoleyshowjumpers.com.
Photos by Kristie Nichols, moonfyrephotography.com.
