IRISH horses and riders were in stunning form at the four-star Hickstead Derby meeting in the UK on Saturday, scoring a hat-trick of wins as torrential rain poured down on the Sussex arena.

Cork-born Billy Twomey (pictured) claimed the Tom Hudson Derby Trophy with the nine-year-old gelding Thomas after a four horse jump-off.

Twomey’s double clear round in 43.77 seconds saw him push Britain’s Phillip Miller into second with Unbelievable Lady, while Waterford’s Anthony Condon finished third with Balzac and also filled fourth spot aboard Aristio.

Dubliner Darryl Walker also claimed fifth place for Ireland with the Irish Sport Horse Cushions.

In the morning’s opening Beethoven Championship for 7&8 year-old horses, Tipperary’s Shane Breen powered to victory with Slibermond after a seven horse jump-off.

Irish-bred horses dominated the afternoon’s thrilling Hickstead Speed Derby, with Silver Lift (ISH) taking the winner’s trophy when ridden by Britain’s Harriet Nuttall, who also guided Highland Cruiser II (ISH) into third place.

Breeding –

Silver Lift (ISH) – 2005 gelding by Easy Lift (TB) out of Faherine (ISH), by Silver Cloud (TB). Breeder: Kay Blackwell, Co. Westmeath. Owner: Mr Rupert Nuttall. Rider: Harriet Nuttall (GBR)

Highland Cruiser II (ISH) – 2001 gelding by Cougar (ISH) out of Leaving Cert (RID), by Flagmount Diamond (ID). Bred by Patrick J Cooke, Co. Leitrim. Owner: Mr Rupert Nuttall. Rider: Harriet Nuttall (GBR)