Equestrian: Wordley finishes third

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US-based Kiwi showjumper Sharn Wordley has finished third in the Zoetis $US1 million grand prix at the HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties in New York.

The ride aboard his 10-year-old mare Derly Chin de Muze earned him $US120,000.

Wordley received a late invitation from show organisers and was included in the field of 39. Only five combinations are invited; the rest must qualify.

Derly, who was previously ridden by former world No 1 Erik Lamaze and competed at the London Olympics, and has been with Wordley for just under a year.

"She is the best horse I have ever sat on," Wordley said.

"She is definitely a real candidate for world champs."

The leggy chestnut Belgium warmblood didn't even nudge a rail on her way around the challenging course.

The winner was Nayel Nassar aboard Lordan, with Todd Minikus on Quality Girl second after a jump off.

Wordley is aiming to qualify for next year's world equestrian championships at the Nations Cup event in Wellington, Florida, in March.

They're also hoping to line up in two more $US1 million grand prix - one on either coast - next year which are part of the triple crown of showjumping.