The American visitor, who has completed the Le Mans 24 hour car rally three times, led the dressage on a score of 32.8 before completing a distance ahead of Elisabetta Moranzoni and Dinan Valier.

Based in Sussex, as well as in Florida, Halliday-Sharp rode Cooley Ground Control (by Chacoa) just one of many horses she has sourced from Co Wicklow man Richard Sheane. “I love the Irish horse,” she commented afterwards. “Richard and I are even planning to take a few back to Florida (including this one) over the winter to produce further and sell on.” Citing Le Lion d’Angers at the goal for the season, Halliday-Sharp added. ”He’s quite cheeky and felt quite green in his test, so I was both thrilled and amazed when I saw his score!”