The Allianz Grand Prix league is being run in a new format this year, split into 1.35m and 1.40m divisions. The points vary between the height grades. There are 12 points awarded for a win in the 1.40m section versus 10 points in the 1.35m.

John Floody got off to a good start with Ballyknock Diamond when finishing fourth in Kernan’s 1.35m and then added to their tally when taking the win in the 1.35m at Cavan and sixth in the 1.40m at the same venue. Although Floody failed to feature in the 1.35m in Portmore, his fourth place finish with BallyKnock Diamond at Killossery was an important one, adding four points to his tally of 20 points.

Floody is no stranger to wins in the Autumn Grand Prix leagues, having claimed the title in 2015 and 2016, and will no doubt have his eye on the title for 2017. He has a six-point advantage over closest rival, Emily Turkington and Willem (18).

Jonathan Smyth and Mulvin Lui are two points behind Turkington on 16 points, Paddy O’ Donnell and Minority Report share fourth place with Floody and Bronson De Reve on 14 points.

Three combinations have clocked up 12 points: Jonathan Smyth (Charlton Clio), Alexander Butler (HS Copperhead Cruise) and Kenneth Graham (George). After this, there are nine combinations on 10 points, which now includes Tholm Keane and Warrenstown You 2, who took the win in the 1.35m Allianz mini Grand Prix at Killossery last bank holiday Monday.

Floody has a small advantage so it is still all to play for as three rounds remain. The final takes place in Cavan Equestrian on 2 and 3 December.