Equestrian:Ireland finished second to Germany in the first Nations' Cup competition of the season in Wellington, Florida last night.
Meath-based Cian O’Connor recorded a double clear with his new ride Blue Loyd and, in the first round, Shane Sweetnam was also clear on Amaretto Darco, picking up four faults next time out.
Richie Moloney, riding the Irish-Bred Slievenorra, lowered a rail first time around but was faultless in round two, while Darragh Kerins and the Irish-bred mare Lisona recorded four faults in both rounds for a team total of eight.
The Germans won on four faults, with Canada placing third on nine and the USA and Britain tying for fourth with 22 apiece. Ten teams took part in the competition over a course built by American Anthony D’Ambrosio.
Afterwards Team Ireland’s show jumping manager Robert Splaine said: “I was very pleased with all four combinations. We were unlucky in the first round and that was where we could have been stronger. However, we were consistent throughout and Cian’s double clear was special. It was rewarding to improve our position from third to second in the second round.”