The Irish rider guided the speedy mare Chardonnay to victory to claim the early lead in the North American League standings.

A contentious eight-horse jump-off saw Vanessa Mannix (CAN) and Catinka 25 settle for second with Conor Swail (IRL) and Theo 160 third.

Competition continues at the Summer Fort Classic CSI3* with Irish rider Robert Blanchette placing one-two in the $25,000 Hunter Derby.