Kurten falters in Amsterdam

AS IN Leipzig last week, showjumper Jessica Kurten yesterday saw her World Cup effort falter in the opening round in Amsterdam.

Riding 11-year-old Danish-bred Quibell, the German-based rider finished her first round with one pole down.

This saw the Antrim-born woman place equal 11th in a competition won by Lars Neiberg and Loreana 90) Third last to go in a 10-horse jump-off, the German rider was fearless in his approach to the last, cutting out a stride and crossing the line clear in 33.42 seconds to wrest the lead from Leipzig winner Nick Skelton (Arko III). Sweden's Thomas Velin (Equest Carnute) put in a determined effort when second last to go, but fell short by 0.39 seconds to slot into second.