HAVING attracted some of the world’s elite, the team at Kilguilkey ran a fitting event last weekend, and were rewarded by a wealth of compliments and promises to return. Running as the second SemaLease international fixture in the space of a month, this edition was much better supported than the first, with riders from no less than 13 countries taking part. Some needed individual Olympic qualifications, while others, according to organiser Danny Dulohery, were drawn by the prospect of running their top horses over the Ian Stark-designed tracks. “The introduction of Ian has probably been the turning point of these events,” declared Dulohery. “Riders have told me that he is their favourite designer and that they, like me, are hoping he won’t retire!”

A large group of antipodean riders made up not only the biggest overseas contingent but also the most successful one. Between them they dominated all three long format classes as well as featuring at the business end of the remainder. “Everyone was very friendly and laid back,” said first time visitor Jonelle Price, winner of the CCI4*-S. “It reminds me of eventing back home in New Zealand. I also think we were lucky to come, because the going was good and we keep hearing reports of bottomless ground in the UK.”