TIPPERARY’s Kevin Babington and the Irish-bred Mark Q won the $225,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon at the four-star venue on Thursday, beating Americans Danielle Torano and double Olympic gold medallist McLain Ward in a three-horse jump-off before a 9,000-strong crowd.

Over a course built by Kelvin Bywater, Babington and Mark Q were the pathfinders, clear in 38.43 seconds. “It’s always nice to win a class, Mark Q is my favourite horse,” said a delighted Babington.