Showjumpers book Tokyo spot with European bronze

Great Britain's team showjumpers booked a quota place at the Tokyo Olympics after claiming European Championship bronze in Rotterdam.

Ben Maher, Scott Brash, Holly Smith and Amanda Derbyshire combined for third place on the podium, marking Great Britain’s first European medal in six years.

Gold medallists Belgium and runners-up France also booked their spots next summer.

Maher also leads the individual competition heading into Sunday’s final day following a third straight clear round, and could become Great Britain’s first European individual champion in 30 years.

"My priority today was the team and gaining Tokyo qualification," Maher said.

"I like to go first, and I really believe in Explosion W. I'm just so lucky to have him.

"It's one day at a time. He will enjoy his rest day tomorrow [Saturday] I am sure, and then it's all down to the last day on Sunday."

Maher will start 1.06 points clear of Belgium’s Jos Verlooy, while Switzerland's Martin Fuchs is in third.

Sportsbeat 2019