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Laura Kraut and Cedric Ride to Represent the USA, Bringing the Nations Cup Winning Title Back to Wellington

Laura Kraut and Cedric. Photos By: Kenneth Kraus

Wellington, FL – March 2, 2013 – The International Arena at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center was filled with an array of colors on Friday, March 1, when spectators gathered at the $75,000 Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup presented by G&C Farm. Laura Kraut and Cherry Knoll Farm’s Cedric were one of the four pairs to represent the United States, bringing the Nations Cup winning title home to Wellington with a phenomenal win.

In 2012 the United States was faced with a disappointing Nations Cup; however, Kent Farrington and Uceko, Reed Kessler and Cylana, Laura Kraut and Cedric, and Beezie Madden and Simon rode brilliantly over the two-round competition last night, securing the 2013 win for Team USA.

Kraut and Cedric have been long-time partners, and their relationship was apparent under the lights Friday night. The pair showcased the same form and athleticism that helped them clinch the Team Gold for the U.S. during the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. Kraut piloted the 15-year-old Holsteiner gelding to an impressive first round clear effort. They made the task at hand appear seemingly effortless, and although they did roll the rail from the vertical in the final combination [11A] during the second round, their efforts proved enough for the U.S. to bring the winning title back to their home turf.

“I was thrilled with Cedric tonight; I thought he jumped both rounds fantastic. The second round I was maybe over cautious coming down the last line. He had such a light rub that I think he thinks he was double clear so he’s pleased right now,” Kraut smiled.

Friday’s Nation Cup has become even more important in 2013 with the added pressure of qualifying for the inaugural Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup Finals riding on the event. The $75,000 Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup is also the only CSIO in the United States, and it is the second of the 22 qualifying legs to be held across the globe with the Finals taking place in September 2013. Friday night’s phenomenal performance earmarked a page in history for America as U.S. Show Jumping Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland stepped forward for his first Nations Cup in his recently acquired position.

“Normally I would be very tense about riding in front of the home crowd, but I felt pretty comfortable that they were there to back me up,” Kraut admitted of her team. “I’m thrilled that we won and I’m very happy for Robert because he was really nervous. He really listened to what we thought and what we wanted to do – he supported us. We’re all kind of getting to know each other and our systems, but I think it worked quite well.”

For owner Margaret Duprey, Friday night’s victory was momentous on several levels – the sport and her first Nations Cup as Cedric’s owner.

“It’s very exciting. It was my first Nations Cup, and I am thrilled,” Duprey exclaimed. “All I could think is he’s back! He was having a good time out there and really enjoying himself. It was a great night; I couldn’t be more excited.”

Duprey concluded, “I am really happy for Robert Ridland, too. What a good way for him to start his new position with the USEF. To have this event at home, and be defending home territory with such a great win, is fantastic.”

Cedric is known for his spry jumping, athleticism and quick feet, and was a solid selection for participation in CSIO Wellington FEI Nations Cup. Kraut is on par with her athletic mount, and is leaving nothing to chance as she heads into the International Arena to defend her turf at home throughout the Winter Equestrian Festival. For more information on Cherry Knoll Farm, Inc., please visit http://www.cherryknollfarminc.com/.

Kendall Bierer for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

Media Contact: Mason Phelps
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
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