In the last international leg of grand slam for eventing, kiwi rider Andrew Nicholson has galloped home to take second place in the prestigious CIC 4 star international three day event, at Les Etoiles de Pau, in France, over the weekend.

Riding his Olympic qualified mount, Mr Cruise Control, the top placing means that Nicholson also jumps to third from sixth place on the leader board of the HSBC FEI Classics, just behind crowned champion Mary King, who made history as the first woman ever to win the title.

Picking up $US150,000 for her efforts in the biggest single award in eventing, Mary has never placed lower than eighth in the five classic events this season.

Pau’s tough four star cross-country section saw 19 combinations out of the 69 strong field eliminated, withdrawn or retired.

Nicholson and Mr Cruise Control were the best of the kiwis, jumping cleanly around the course, to finish clear and within the time.

Nicholson told Country99tv just finishing a four star is a feat in itself, and he is extremely proud of his second placing.

The placing shows the quality of horses Nicholson has to choose from for his London Olympic bid next year.

“The competition now is so tough. The whole standard of eventing has risen over the last ten years to be very competitive.

“You know to be second in a four star CCI, they’re difficult to get placed in, but he’s got good sound form. He would be my fourth choice I would think.”

Nicholson also took out the CIC 2 star, riding Viscount George to first place ahead of Australian Paul Tapner, who was hot on his heels with only .2 of a penalty between them.