No change in world top eight, but Billy Twomey makes it into top 10 for first time

Ireland's Billy Twomey makes it into
the World Top 10 for the first time

There's no change to the top eight riders in the current Rolex World rankings list compared to last month, but Ireland's Billy Twomey has replaced France's Penelope Leprevost at number nine. She has dropped one place to 10, while the previous 10th placed rider, Jessica Kurten of Ireland has dropped to 14th.

Kevin Staut remains at the top of the table for Frances ahead of Canada's Eric Lamaze and Germany's Marcus Ehning.

Billy Twomey, who is based in Cheshire, Britain, joins his fellow countryman Denis Lynch, who is at number seven, in the top 10.

"I'd like to thank all the people who have helped me - my owners, sponsors and supporters," said Billy. "I'd also like to thank the Irish Chef d'Equipe Robert Splaine for giving me the opportunity to compete at top class shows.

"I have a couple of very capable horses at the moment and of course this is also the reason why I have been able to win enough points for my first top 10 position."

Horse Sport Ireland Chairman Joe Walsh said: "This is a significant achievement by Billy Twomey. For such a small country to now have two riders in the world's top 10 and another in the top 15 is amazing.

"It is just a pity the general sports media do not give riders sufficient credit for their achievements. In what other sport do we have three athletes in the top 15 in the world?"