ON Saturday, 24 combinations contested the Botanica International Amateur Championship at Balmoral Show and the standard was high, with 10 booking their place against the clock. Leading the victory lap was Kevin O’Reilly [AA] and Cranny West, when they delivered a double clear in 37.08. This combination went into this championship on a strong note, having won the 1m Summer series in Barnadown the week before. Owned by Louise Halford and bred by Flan McNamara, the 14-year-old gelding is by Cranny Vol Clover and out of Cranny Diamond Coevers.

Caitriona Cody [AA] opted for the longer lines with Shanroe Socialite, and she came home with nothing to add in 43.04. Last of the double clears in 47.09 and slotting into third was Breda Perrin [A] and LKS Bianca. Young rider Jennifer McCurry and LGS My Echo put in a blistering round in 37.46, but it came at a price, as she had one on the ground for fourth place. Fifth place belonged to Gwyn Yemm [AA] and Doonini Z, when they recorded four faults in 39.11. Rounding off the top six was Kate Murray [A] and Crynolisk Feisty Blue, who came home on four faults in 39.99.