Jessica Kurten climbs to World No.2 spot

The latest world rankings in show jumping released by the FEI shows Ireland's Jessica Kurten in second place behind Germany's Marcus Ehning. Kurten, now holds the highest position in the world rankings achieved by an Irish rider since the FEI/Gandini Jumping Riders' World Ranking List was introduced six years ago.

The 36 year-old rider has been steadily climbing the world table in recent months, but a run of major successes in Grand Prix and other classes last month has now catapulted her into the top end of the rankings. The World Ranking List published today shows that Kurten has now overtaken former World Champion and current Olympic Champion, Brazil's Rodrigo Pessoa, who trails behind her in third place.

FEI/Gandini World Ranking (31.01.2006)

1º Marcus Ehning / Ger / 3577
2º Jessica Kürten / Irl / 3095
3º Rodrigo Pessoa / Bra / 3092
4º Ludger Beerbaum / Ger / 2818
5º M. Michaels – Beerbaum / Ger / 2756
6º Markus Fuchs / Sui / 2628
7º Nick Skelton / Gbr / 2512
8º Bernardo Alves / Bra / 2427
9º Marco Kutscher / Ger / 2337
10º Gerco Schröder / Ned / 2330
11º Beezie Madden / Usa / 2185
12º Rolf-Göran Bengtsson / Swe / 2145
13º Christian Ahlmann / Ger / 2036
14º Michael Whitaker / Gbr / 2026
15º Steve Guerdat / Sui / 2025
16º Ludo Philippaerts / Bel / 1889
17º Lars Nieberg / Ger / 1829
18º Laura Kraut / Usa / 1778
19º Mclain Ward / Usa / 1609
20º A. Pollmann – Schweckhorst / Ger / 1607