Sasha Harrison will be heading to Athens with Irish team

The 27-year-old professional eventer heard the news while on a short break to Italy.

''I had to leave my mobile phone on all last night while the selectors were having their meeting,'' said Sasha.

''Then I got the call in the early hours and the selectors told me that I would in the team. It has been a life-time ambition for me.''

Sasha in the only Northern Ireland team member and when the serious work begins her whole entourage heads over to Bishopstone in Wiltshire the base used by GB squad member Rodney Powell.

''It's a shame there are not more from Northern Ireland on the team, but there are a few on the reserve list, so you never know what the final team will be.

Hopefully Ireland will be able to force their way onto the podium Sasha Harrison

''But the trip to Athens will make up for missing Sydney four years ago when my horse got injured.

''I know things can go wrong again. It's only 60 days to go and I will not relax until I'm on the plane to Greece,'' said Sasha whose two mounts All Love Du Fenaud and Look Sharp are also having a rest.

''Both horses are on a holiday this week while I'm away. They will be doing a bit of walking until they start their fitness work again when I get home.''

Sasha believes that Australia will again be the strong force in Athens.

''Australia have won the gold medal for the last three Olympics, so they will obviously be the ones to watch.

''England have also a very strong team, but hopefully Ireland will be able to force their way onto the podium as well.''