There was disappointment for Irish riders Shane Sweetnam and Daniel Coyle in the individual final at the Paris Olympics today.
In the majestic Chateau De Versailles Arena the pair were unable to match their exploits in yesterday’s qualification round where they jumped clear rounds and were second and third ranked in the qualification.
Third last into the ring Derry’s Daniel Coyle on the 14-year-old mare Legacy looked smooth as he successfully negotiated the first half of the tough course. Legacy had jumped three clear rounds already at the venue but disaster struck when he appeared to lose his concentration and had four fences down in a row in the second half of his ride before Coyle opted to retire.
Riding James Kann Cruz, Sweetman was next in the ring but the partnership had three fences down and collected 12 faults to finish 22nd overall.
Only three of the 30 finalists went clear and into a jump off to decide the medal placings.