Conor Swail back on top in California

Ireland's top-ranked show jumping rider Conor Swail continued his excellent run of form by claiming victory in Sunday’s three-star $138,600 Grand Prix in California.

Riding the 13-year-old gelding Vital Chance de la Roque, Swail, ranked ninth in the world, was one of 35 athletes to take on the first-round course built by fellow Irishman Alan Wade.

The Co Down man crossed the line clear in 36.53 seconds, which pushed American Karrie Rufer and Mr Europe into the runners-up spot in a time of 36.72. Canada’s Lisa Carlsen completed the top three aboard Livestream 2 in 37.79.

"He jumped amazing. I don’t need to keep saying how great he is," Swail said of Vital Chance de la Roque.

"If you just read his results, that shows for himself. It was a nice win. We were last to go. The time was very hard to beat. Karrie put up a very fast time, but I did feel if I did what we just explained, I would maybe just make it.

"So, thankfully, today he had a great round."