Michael Ryan heads the CIC** leaderboard at the inaugural Kilguilkey House International Horse Trials following the conclusion of the first two phases today. Under clear blue skies, the Irish Olympian riding Ballylynch Wizard impressed the judges in the dressage arena and added nothing to his score in the showjumping phase where Tony Hurley’s demanding track resulted in only six clear rounds within the time. The other half of the Donegan Ryan Eventing team; Patricia Ryan lies close behind with Tullineaskey Hi-Ho.

In the CIC* competition, the Army Equitation School’s Capt. Brian Curran Cournane leads the way with Stonehavens Tonduff with Rodney O’ Donnell just one penalty behind with Hillcrest Harry.

Meanwhile, the hydeequine.com CNCP1* Championship which is taking place alongside the International classes is currently led by Lucy Hancock riding Comical Con.

Tomorrow, the focus turns to the cross-country course; which has been designed by International designer Eric Winter. The track features twenty natural fences including banks, logs, ditches and an impressive new water complex. The course has a good cover of grass, which should make for perfect going.

Following their diversification from farming to equestrian enterprise, Kilguilkey House was recently awarded the IRD Duhallow Best Agri-Business Award. The venue has benefitted from LEADER funding through IRD Duhallow.

The Cross Country phase gets underway at Kilguilkey House from 10am tomorrow with a range of National classes scheduled to start at the same time. Further information is available on www.eventingireland.com or www.kilguilkeyhouse.com.