In May, Belgian warmblood gelding RMF Echo was due to be bought from Lynch's stables but Monica and Frank McCourt of Rushy Marsh Farm stepped in to purchase the chestnut to keep the horse and rider together.

That move has paid dividends as Lynch rode to glory today at the famous Kentucky Horse Park venue.

After going clear in the first round the Irishman prevailed following a nine-horse jump-off.

He went clear again in the quickest time of 36.16sec at the North American League Eastern Sub League event.

"The horse ended up in our stable this winter, and I was actually short a horse," Lynch, who won a team jumping gold medal at this year's European Championships in Gothenburg, said.

"Then, I started jumping him in some shows at the beginning of the year, and he started progressing to a better horse. 

"He was sold after Versailles and I was very, very lucky that Rushy Marsh stepped in overnight and secured me the horse, which I'm incredibly grateful for. 

"It was incredible. 

"I'm very, very lucky to have him.

"Echo's been unlucky a few times this year, when he's been beaten at the post. 

"He really deserved this win tonight."

Lauren Tisbo of the United States finished second, going double clear and ending the jump-off in 36.52.

Swiss rider Beat Mandli was third with a double clear performance and a jump-off time of 37.80.

Alison Robitaille of the US leads the Eastern Sub League standings with 42 points.