Hickstead reality check for Irish, but no relegation

HAVING won the German Nations Cup two weeks ago, Ireland’s show jumpers were given a reality check yesterday, when they finished a disappointing sixth in the British equivalent at Hickstead.

However, the result was good enough to end any worries of relegation in a year when an unprecedented four of the 10 countries in the series will drop to the second tier.

Tipperary’s Shane Breen and Carmena Z opened with 12 faults, followed by Dermott Lennon and Hallmark Elite on 9. Matters improved with five from Billy Twomey and Je t’Aime Flamenco, but then Denis Lynch and Nabab’s Son finished on 12 to leave the team sixth on a midway total of 26.