“I’ve been having a lot of trouble with my sciatic nerve which has curtailed my riding in the earlier part of the season,” reports Steven. “However, it’s improving and I’ve some very nice young horses I’m looking forward to bringing out shortly.”

Smith and Ringfort Valentino are currently in joint-first place with four other riders in the Eventing Ireland Hit Air O/CNC* League with one leg left to run. The final leg takes place at Kedrah Castle on Sunday, June 15th, where the winner will receive a Hit Air vest, rug and saddle cloth.