Bertram Allen just missed out on adding to his international victory tally when he was pipped by .06 of a second in this afternoon's 1m60 Masters Airbus Cup at the five-star meeting at Chantilly, France.
Riding nine-year-old gelding Belmonde, the Wexford rider set a sharp target early in the 16-strong jump-off, going clear in 36.77.
However, his effort was just bettered by Belgian Constant Van Paesschen, who got Diamanthina van T Ruytershof across the beam in 36.71.
Allen's time was almost a full second quicker than third-placed Ferenc Szentirmai on Quickdiamond.
Yesterday, Allen placed fifth in the Global Champions Tour Grand Prix at the French venue with Molly Malone V.
