WITH the largest number of teams ever competing, the US Nations' Cup at Wellington, Florida last night saw Ireland punch its way up from fourth at the halfway stage to overall third when the competition finished in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Last year's winners, Canada, held onto their early lead to claim victory, and the home team battled it out for places against Mexico and Ireland. In the end, the Irish quartet proved stronger than the US team and edged ahead to take third behind Mexico in the 11-team competition.

Team Ireland Equestrian were very pleased with their third place performance, especially considering that Richie Moloney was riding in just his second Nations' Cup and it was the inaugural Nations' Cup performance for Offaly's 21 year-old Darragh Kenny (pictured). Moloney and 'Brooke van de Zuuthoeve' had five faults in the first round. Team veteran Kevin Babington had nine faults and eight faults with 'Souvenir', while Darragh Kenny and 'Obelix' finished on four faults for each round. Shane Sweetnam and 'Rolette' also had four faults in both rounds. The Irish finished with 29 faults for third place.

Team Ireland Equestrian jumping manager Robert Splaine, said: "It's great that the USA has become home to some Irish riders. They have wonderful owners and some great horses. I'd like to thank them very much. They did a very good job for us. I was pleased with the results. To finish third ahead of the US team was a good outcome. We enjoyed it, and it was good fun."