FOR Clarke Johnstone, wins are like buses, and having waited 18 months to land his first European international victory, he racked up his second in the space of two hours. This time he teamed up with the thoroughbred 10-year-old Domasco and repeating his earlier feat, was once again the sole runner to complete on his opening mark (25.5). This time it was an easier win however, and having headed into the show jumping with a fence in hand, he finished five marks ahead of Australian Kevin McNab (Pepper Jack) and nearly seven in front of British challenger Milie Juleff (Donateur).

A comparatively recent addition to Johnstone’s string, the British-bred Domasco moved up from New Zealand earlier this year. Another globetrotter, the son of Zoffrany was originally bought at the Tattersalls foal sales, before he was exported to the southern hemisphere. Unsuccessful on the track, he was then introduced to eventing by international rider Heelan Tomkins, and subsequently bought by Johnstone. “I used to ride for Heelan so I knew him well, and jumped at the chance to buy him,” said Johnstone. “This was a perfect run for him, and he’s now ready to upgrade.”