CONOR Swail came out in winning form on Thursday as Major League Show Jumping (MLSJ) returned to the Desert International Horse Park in California for two weeks of championship competition.

Swail, a winning member of team Trailblazers, topped the $76,100 CAD Pomponio Ranch star Qualifier riding Theo 160, an 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding (Christian 25 x Calando IV) owned by Mannon Farm.

“Theo was excellent like he always is for me,” said Swail of the mount, who topped a 13-horse jump-off over courses designed by fellow Irishman, Alan Wade. “I was first to go [in the jump-off], which was a tough job, because there were so many good horses and riders behind me.”

Among the horses and riders behind him were Darragh Kenny (IRL) with VDL Cartello, McLain Ward (USA) on First Lady, and Kent Farrington (USA) aboard Landon as the last pair to go.

Swail also won the $39,000 CAD FarmVet 2* Speed earlier in the day aboard Fasole du Seigneur, owned by Alexis Sokolov.

“When you’re in good form at the start of the week, it’s easier to continue that way,” concluded Swail.

MLSJ action continues at the Desert International Horse Park today, Saturday, with the $1 Million Coachella Cup 5* Grand Prix.

Swail has also been nominated for the November GAIN Equine Nutrition/The Irish Field Star of the Month, see page 84 for details.