IRISH-bred horses dominated the two-star World Cup competition in Dubai yesterday evening (Saturday), with Kilkenny-born Marion Hughes taking second place to a Saudi Arabian rider piloting an Irish horse.

Hughes, who is based in Portugal, rode the Cavalier Royale mare Heritage HHS Fortuna in the Grand Prix, and although clocking up two fault-free rounds, was outpaced in the jump-off by over three seconds by the Antrim-bred Cruising gelding Larkhill Cruiser.

Yesterday's winner was Saudi Arabia's WEG silver medallist Abdullah Al Sharbatly, who rode Cian O'Connor's former mount to victory at the Emirates Equestrian Centre venue.

Listen to Brian Hennessy's radio report on the competition by clicking HERE

Marion Hughes

BREEDING

Heritage HHS Fortuna (ISH) – 2001 chestnut mare by Heritage Fortunus (HANN) out of Dreaming Of U (ISH), by Cavalier Royale (HOLST). Bred by Thomas A Hughes, c/o Marion Hughes, Graigue, Cuffesgrange, Co. Kilkenny. Owner: Shaikha Maitha Bint Mohd Bin Rashid Al Maktoum & Marion Hughes. Rider: Marion Hughes (IRL)

Larkhill Cruiser (ISH) – 2001 chestnut gelding by Cruising (ISH) out of Dunadry Lady (RID), by Crosstown Dancer (ID C1). Bred by Brian McAuley, Larkhill Farm, 35 Seven Mile Straight, Co. Antrim. Owner/Rider:Abdullah Al Sharbatly (KSA)