Lennon second in Toronto World Cup contest

COUNTY Down rider Dermott Lennon finished second in last night’s (Wednesday) Longines World Cup round in Toronto Canada on board Judith Sossick’s Irish Sport Horse Loughview Lou-Lou.

The Irish rider and American McLain Ward, who rode HH Azur, were the only two to go clear in the opening phase from a starting field of 22.

Lennon and Loughview Lou Lou returned first over the shortened jump-off course, but clipped two rails for eight faults in a time of 42.04 seconds. With the door left wide open, Ward opted for a conservative clear, picking up one time fault in the process to finish in 47.58 seconds.

“The horse travelled well and jumped well tonight, so I am happy,” said Ireland’s 2002 World Champion about the mare that shipped from Europe to Toronto to compete at the Royal Horse Show. “It was a difficult course for her and she gave a lot in the first round. She’s not the easiest ride, but she’s very competitive and always wants to try.”

The 42 year-old Irish rider picked up 18,500 euro for his second place while the winner took home 30,500 euro.

Dermott Lennon and Loughview Lou Lou in action at Toronto last night. Picture: Ben Radvanyi Photography