IN A  36-strong starting field that boasted some of the world's top riders, Ireland claimed two top ten spots in this afternoon's Longines Grand Prix at St. Gallen in Switzerland.

One of ten through to the second round, Antrim-born Jessica Kurten took fifth place with the bay gelding 'Lektor' on a double-clear round, while Cork-born Shane Sweetnam had an eighth with the Darco stallion 'Amaretto Darco' after dislodging a single fence in their second outing.

Kurten picked up 17,000 euro for her place, while Sweetnam returned to his Florida base 9,300 euro richer.

The Grand Prix was won by Britain's Nick Skelton and 'Carlo', while the irish-bred stallion 'Flexible' took the runner-up place with the USA's Rich Fellers in the saddle.

Jessica Kurten