WITH a prize fund of 2,500 euro up for grabs, it was 17 year-old Conor Drain from Co. Antrim who took first place in the inaugural Grand Prix of the Chippison Spring Tour, held at Ravendsale Lodge in Co. Louth this afternoon (Sunday).

Riding his mother Geraldine's mare 'Fine Filly', Drain, who was the only Young Rider in the ten horse jump-off, shaded runner-up Clem McMahon and 'Valentino' by well over a second to take the Chippison trophy.

Drain has five Grand Prix victories from the previous league under his belt, and expressed his delight at the first win of the 2010 league and also at receiving the show's Leading Young Rider award.

Third place today went to Paddy O'Donnell and 'Orman'.

Previously known as the 'HSI Guidam Spring Tour', 2010 sees new sponsors John and Marie Burke coming on board with Horse Sport Ireland and the Showjumpers Club. Thoroughbred Remedies, Darragh Equestrian Solutions, Comfort Zone, Jaguar Saddles and Showjumping Ireland are supporting the Tour.

Horse Sport Ireland, in addition to their sponsorship, will provide a prize fund of 1,000 euro for the highest placed Irish Sport Horse in the league. Five hundred euro will be awarded to the breeder of that horse and 500 euro to the owner. The Showjumpers Club will award 2,000 euro to the overall winner of the league and 750 euro to the runner up.

The Tour will run at 13 venues, finishing in Coilog Eventing, Co. Kildare, on April 18, 2010.