Superb Jonty Evans show lifts Ireland

Ireland eventing rider Jonty Evans was in high spirits last night after a superb dressage display left him provisional ninth in the individual standings and helped Ireland to fifth place in the battle for team honours.

“I’m delighted and so proud of the horse; we’ve been together a good while, we know each other really well and he totally trusted me today and did all I could have hoped,” said 44-year-old Evans last night after great canter work in particular put him on an impressive 41.80 penalties, as attention today turned to the crucial cross-country phase.

“I’m so excited to be a small part of helping the team be in the position we are in. The team spirit is really strong and the team behind us have been incredible, said the Cotswalds-based rider.