Maher has one eye on Olympics after World Cup win at Olympia

The Hertfordshire-based rider emulated Michael Whitaker’s success in last year’s blue riband event by defeating a top-class field packed with fellow Olympic contenders.

Maher, a former British No 1, rose to the challenge with Tripple X III and, having pushed himself into medal contention at the 2008 Beijing Olympics before he was ultimately edged out, the 28-year-old has given himself more than a fighting chance of featuring in Great Britain’s team at Greenwich Park next summer.

And to allow Maher an added sense of satisfaction, he defeated many of the world’s best on a horse he produced from scratch.

“I don’t claim to be an expert breeder, but then I get one that turns out like that,” said Maher, in tribute to his champion horse.

“I did everything with him – saddle on, first show, everything – and he was always a pleasure to ride.

“Perhaps I am always conscious of over-protecting my horses. I know how good he can be, and next year is the ultimate goal. I didn’t want to peak too early.”

Maher, though, will not take Great Britain selection for granted next summer, not when his competition includes the likes of Nick Skelton, Michael Whitaker, Robert Smith and Scott Brash.

Reflecting on Tripple X as a possible Olympic challenger, Maher added: “The problem is also that he has got to get experience. He has got to prove he is good enough to make the team, firstly.

“Even here, I am changing small things the way I ride.

“That is an important part of the process between now and next year.

“But this victory is surreal. I am still trying to take it in.”

Maher won 33,000 euros, prevailing after an 11-horse jump-off that included his British colleagues Robert Whitaker (USA Today) and Guy Williams (Titus).

The combination’s time of 38.71 seconds sent experienced German challenger Marcus Ehning (Sabrina) into second, with Ireland’s Dermott Lennon (Hallmark Elite) third.

The World Cup class, perceived by many astute judges as an Olympics dress-rehearsal, also drew praise from British course designer Bob Ellis.

Ellis built yesterday’s World Cup track, and he will also design the Olympics course at Greenwich Park. “That was as good a World Cup as you could get,” Ellis said.

Maher, meanwhile, also took the day’s warm-up class – the H&M Speed Stakes – when he guided Milena to victory.