Brian Cournane. Photo courtesy of Tom von Kapherr Photography.

Bromont, Quebec – July 27, 2018 – The FEI Open Welcome at the International Bromont ended with an excellent performance from Irish riders, who took four of the five top places out of the 44 horse and rider pairs participating.

A fair challenge

FEI CSI4* American course designer Anthony d’Ambrosio set up a course that had 12 obstacles for 14 efforts, including two double combinations. The course, featuring broken lines and tight turns, required control and attention as well as precision from the riders.

In addition, the time allowed of 71 seconds in the first round presented an additional difficulty, as nearly half the participants were unable to execute their round within the set time.

Seventeen riders successfully qualified for the jump-off with 16 finally taking part. The time to beat was established by Christine McCrea, on her mount Jasmin, with a double clear in 43.35 seconds. However, American rider Andrew Kocher was the one who overtook her on Kahlua stopping the clock at 39.10 seconds. Irishman Conor Swail, on Domino van de Valhoeve, gets close to the time, but not close enough, with 39.73 seconds, and they are top 2 in the standing.

Captain Brian Cournane comes out in the ring with Armik, a 9-year-old Oldenburg gelding (Armitage x Rikina II) and goes all-in and finishes in a time of almost one second ahead of Kocher, thus taking the lead and winning the class.

Qualified for Sunday’s Grand Prix

All riders and their mounts are qualified for the Quebec Original Grand Prix that will take place at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 29. The event will follow the always-popular Canine-Equine Challenge planned for around 11 a.m.

About International Bromont

International Bromont presents its 43rd edition in the picturesque setting of the Bromont Olympic Equestrian Park, at the heart of the beautiful region of the Eastern Townships. For more information on the schedule, visit our Web site at www.internationalbromont.org.