THE Army Equitation School claimed victory in the Starview Hot Tubs and Outdoor Living 1.35m Championship at Balmoral Show, with Lt Raphael Lee leading this victory lap. Riding Derrycush, he was the fastest of four double clears in 38.56 seconds. Bred by Alfie Hillen, the 12-year-old gelding is by Emerald Van’t Ruytershof and is out of the Aldato-sired dam, ISHD Caldato. This pairing recently won the 1.35m Karlswood Leinster League in Barnadown. They qualified for this championship having placed second in Mullingar in April.

Lisa Doogan and Cove Park came closest to catching the winner, coming home in 40.95. Bred by Thomas Hearne, this 13-year-old mare is by OBOS Quality 004 and out of the Cavalier Royale-sired dam Cove Hill.

Junior rider Jack Cash and the Indoctro-sired gelding Candy 802 kept all the poles in place in a time of 41.18 for third. This pairing gained its place at the championship having finished sixth in the qualifier at Cavan.

Ailsa Sexton and Sparky Lad were last of the double clears in 48.33 for eventual fourth. Bred by Adrian Hill, this 13-year-old gelding is by Ringfort Cruise, who was successfully campaigned by Michael Kelly and David O’Brien.

A speed merchant against the clock, Jonathan Smyth clocked 37.48 with Louieland, but it came at a price, as he had one on the ground for fifth. Bred by Elaine Cadam and owned by Grace Cornyn, this mare is by Cavalier Land and is out of Miss Louie.

Patricia Stewart Greer and GSS Impulse claimed sixth when they finished on eight faults in 45.91. Bred by the late John Mulvey and owned by Gary Stewart, this talented eight-year-old is by Cornet Obolensky and out of Tullibards Lux Sensational. The dam was competed by John and, as a four-year-old, qualified for Dublin Horse Show with Steven Smith.