Irish riders now dominate the top tier of the Rolex World Jumping Rankings, with three listed in the top 12, more than any other country.
The official rankings, issued Thursday 6th January by equestrian sport’s world governing body, the FEI (Federation Equestre Nationale), show Cork’s Billy Twomey at number seven, with Tipperary’s Denis Lynch at number nine, and Antrim-born Jessica Kurten just a few points outside the top ten, at number 11.
Ireland is the only country to have so many riders at the top end of the table, which includes over 2,000 riders from around the globe. The rankings are based on an accumulation of points gained from international performances up to the end of December 2010. Its hoped that the form of Irish riders generally can continue at this level and assist Irish Teams who will be competing in the 2011 Nations Cup series and the European Championships in Madrid, September 13th -18th 2011.
Current leader in the Rolex rankings is France’s European Champion Kevin Staut, but there are no other French riders in the top 12.
