EQUESTRIAN:Ireland have been drawn fifth to go of 12 teams at the European eventing championships, which get underway in Italy today, writes Grania Willis.

The team is down to three following the withdrawal of Lieutenant Geoff Curran's horse Balladeer Alfred, meaning the trio of Louise Lyons, Sally Corscadden and Austin O'Connor have no margin for error if they are to earn Olympic qualification.

Germany, Britain and Sweden have already qualified, but there will be fierce competition between the other nine for the two remaining slots on offer.