July 24, 2024 
Bertram Allen’s Olympic dream has been cut short.
The travelling alternate for Ireland has withdrawn his mount Pacino Amiro from the Paris Games due to a “minor” and unspecified injury.
“I’m saddened to share that Buddy (Pacino Amiro) has a minor injury and won’t be able to compete in the Paris Olympics. I was so looking forward to our second Olympics together, but Buddy’s recovery is our top priority,” announced Allen on Instagram.
“I wish the entire Irish team great success in Paris. They’re stronger than ever and ready to achieve amazing things.”
Allen and the 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding previously represented Ireland at the Tokyo 2020 Games, finishing 15th individually. They were also part of the fourth place finishing team at the 2022 Herning World Championships, subbing in for Darragh Kenny and VDL Cartello.
Denis Lynch on Brooklyn Heights and Mark McAuley with GRS Lady Amaro are the non-travelling reserves for this Games. Horse Sport Ireland has yet to announce which pair will replace Allen.
As the current leaders of the League of Nations, Ireland is a favorite to medal in Paris, but has never climbed the Olympic podium in team show jumping competition.
