Equestrian: Paget wins at Bramham horse trials

Jonathan Paget. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand rider Jonathan Paget underlined his bid for next year's Olympics with a win at the Bramham international horse trials in Yorkshire overnight (NZT).

Paget secured the win aboard Clifton Lush courtesy of a clear and inside-time cross-country effort in only their fifth event together.

The combination, who only teamed up in February, tipped a rail in the showjumping to add just four to their 45.4 dressage score.

Paget, who finished seventh at last year's World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, said the cross country was tough to ride but he had plenty of confidence in his horse, who had been well prepared by fellow New Zealander Joe Meyer.

"It's a matter of me trying to get in tune with the horse," Paget said. "It's just fantastic to win - not sure it has sunk in yet really.

"He's a beautiful little horse - he's very laid back in the dressage and he's really nice to jump and knows his job well."

New Zealander Andrew Nicholson and Armada were third, with compatriot Neil Spratt and Elton II finishing sixth. Spratt was also 13th aboard Upleadon, on whom he had led after the dressage, with Blyth Tait and Santos II 19th.

- NZPA