Equestrian Sport: Eddie Macken has been confirmed as team trainer for the Olympic showjumping team.

Macken, who has been based in Vancouver for three years, confirmed to the international affairs committee at a meeting in Dublin yesterday morning he would be available as trainer for the Athens Olympics and for all eight of the Samsung Super League fixtures, which start in May at La Baule in France.

"It's done and dusted," the Co Longford-born 54-year-old said after his meeting with the selectors, which include show jumping's chef d'equipe, Tommy Wade. "Tommy and myself are going to work together. Tommy is still chef and very much in control. I'll be there as assistant and as an advisor. We're all there for the good of the team and I'm hopeful that we'll have a team for the Games that can bring back a medal."

The post of team trainer was initially offered to Lt-Col Gerry Mullins last month, but, when a number of the elite riders requested that Macken have some input, Mullins stepped aside last week. The unsalaried job was subsequently offered to Macken and the final details were hammered out yesterday.

Mullins, who spent yesterday morning showing Princess Anne round the Army Equitation School, will remain in his role as assistant chef d'equipe.

"I'm delighted Eddie's on board," said Wade said. "Gerry Mullins is going to be second chef d'equipe. I have all the time in the world for Gerry and he'll help me as he always has."

The quintet from which four will be selected to fly the flag at the Olympics are Cian O'Connor (Waterford Crystal), Robert Splaine (Coolcorran Cool Diamond), Billy Twomey (Luidam), Kevin Babington (Carling King) and Peter Charles (Pershing or It's Magic Max).