IRISH event rider Jonty Evans (46) is in the Neuro Intensive Care Unit in Beaumont Hospital following a fall on cross-country at Tattersalls International Horse Trials yesterday (Sunday).

Evans, who was riding his Rio Olympic mount Cooley Rorkes Drift, took a fall just after fence 19B, the second element of the water complex in the CIC3*. He was transferred to Connolly Hospital in Blanchardstown and following initial evaluation was brought to Beaumont Hospital which specialises in head injuries.

His condition is now being monitored and treated in the Neuro Intensive Care Unit. Cooley Rorkes Drift was uninjured in the incident, remained on his feet throughout and was quickly caught afterwards.

The combination were lying in second place going into yesterday’s final cross-country phase after a fantastic show jumping clear on Saturday evening.

The incident happened when the horse just struck the flagpole coming out of the narrow brush element and the pair jinked sideways on landing. Evans, who was hanging sideways on the near side, hung on but parted company with his horse just as they reached the top of the ascent mound.

While the fall did not appear to be at any real speed, Evans landed on the right side of his head and shoulder and remained inert while nearby medics raced to his aid.

He was swiftly attended to and assessed and within minutes, both a helicopter and an ambulance were called to the scene.

Australia's Emma McNab, later declared the winner, was out on the course at the time and was held by officials while Jonty was attended to further up the course.

An official update on Jonty's condition was released today from Tattersalls International Horse Trials and said: "Following further evaluation at Beaumont Hospital, Jonty Evans is in the Neuro Intensive Care Unit and his condition is being monitored and treated."

More to follow.