Babington the star as Ireland book Athens Olympic ticket

KEVIN BABINGTON and Carling King produced one of only two double clears yesterday to help Ireland finish fifth in the European Show Jumping Championships in Donaueschingen, Germany.

While out of the medals, it was a case of mission achieved, with Ireland taking one of two automatic qualifying slots for the 2004 Athens Olympics. Babington's superb performance makes him a strong contender for an individual medal, the Pennsylvania-based Tipperary man rising to fourth place ahead of tomorrow's final.

Germany were indomitable yesterday, taking the gold in the 10-nation competition, with world champions France having to settle for silver. Switzerland took bronze and the other Olympic qualifying slot.