AUSTRALIAN rider Paul Tapner was happy with a top-10 finish in the CIC*** event at Barbury.

The 34 year-old finished seventh after Sunday’s cross country on Innothing, the same horse who he rode to victory in this year’s Badminton Horse Trials.

Tapner, who lives in Highworth, said: “To be honest, I wasn’t expecting a top 10 placing,” he said.

“He (Inonothing) had a fantastic few days and I felt fantastic coming into the cross country.

“He wasn’t at 100% so this has been part of his fitness regime and it’s gone great.

“It’s always nice coming here (to Barbury) because it’s a great spectator event.

“It’s brilliantly organised and it’s probably one of the best events around.”

Tapner also competed in the three-star event on Tiger Flynee but failed to finish.

The Highworth rider also rode Yogi Bear VIII in the CIC** section B, finishing 20th.

Tapner now turns his attentions to competing for Australia in the World Equestrian Games.