THE Irish show jumping team finished as runners-up in the five-star BMO Nations Cup at Spruce Meadows in Canada on Saturday night, on a final score of 17. Germany were victorious when they finished on just four, with Belgium in third on 21.

Nine teams lined up and there were plenty of thrills and spills, as two teams suffered elimination - including the home side. The course certainly provided its share of challenges, as faults, retirements and eliminations were rife. From the 36 riders in round one, there were only five clears - one being recorded by Tipperary’s Denis Lynch - while six of those who jumped in the second round managed to remain without penalty.