THE Bermuda Equestrian Federation (BEF) Board this week confirmed that, after a series of qualifying events, Patrick Nisbett and his mare Antille 8 will represent Bermuda in Show Jumping at the 2008 Olympic Games Equestrian in Hong Kong.

According to a BEF statement, a series of events for two qualified riders - Jillian Terceira on Navantus and Patrick on Antille - to compete head to head was arranged, but prior to the second designated event, Navantus incurred an injury which prevented him from taking part in any other competitions prior to the designated deadline.

"Jillian had a second horse capable of reaching the required standard by the name of Chaka 111 and on the final day of qualifying at a specially arranged event the combination reached the required standard," the statement said.

"However as Antille had taken part in the previously designated events and had attained some of the criteria and also had proven her fitness at the special event, she was declared to be ahead of Chaka and Navantus in the standings. This means that should anything happen to Antille prior to the final entry deadline in July which might prevent her from competing then Jillian and Chaka will be the reserve combination. Both Patrick and Jillian competed in the Pan American Games last year in Brazil and the Federation is pleased that we have two riders of this calibre.

"There will be a veterinarian inspection prior to going into quarantine and it is anticipated that the horses will be taking part in competitions prior to the final deadline. This is the first time that Bermuda will be represented in Show Jumping at the Olympics, although we have had previous representation in Eventing and Dressage and in fact have had at least one equestrian at all Olympic Games since 1984."