THE spring season, which was accompanied by new look class names and controversial flag rules, kicked off with the first of the six CCI5*-L fixtures at the Rolex in Kentucky.

There were no Irish riders present this year, but flying the flag in style was the Irish-bred Cooley Master Class ridden by the world number one Oliver Townend. The duo proved unbeatable for the second year in succession, while also in the mix was Townend’s compatriot Piggy French aboard the fourth-placed Quarrycrest Echo.