Tag Archives: Longines Masters of New York

Diana de Rosa, Publications/Media

A Desert Flight VIP Experience at Longines Masters of New York

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Karen Pekarne with her seven friends. Diana De Rosa Photos.

Uniondale, NY, April 29, 2019 — As their cheers filled the air and they pumped their fists, it was clear the eight women who had won the Desert Flight VIP Experience at the world class Longines Masters of New York on Saturday night, April 27, were thrilled. The team behind the Desert Flight movie had done it again and won the hearts and souls of not only that night’s winners but those who had a chance to view the trailer on the jumbotron.

The plan was simple. Each afternoon and evening of this four-day show, April 25-28, after showing the trailer the ringmaster would come out and announce to the audience that he was about to make one group extra happy.

It began with a Desert Flight t-shirt tossed into the stands but in one of those was wrapped a unique VIP Experience. The person or persons who caught the winning t-shirt would go on a fun afternoon or evening journey. Combined with that VIP wristband was dinner in the lounge, souvenirs, and photo ops at some memorable sites around the Nassau Coliseum, before being escorted to the VIP seating area to get the perfect view of this powerful sport.

For the Saturday evening toss, the winning t-shirt was the last to explode into the stands. Suddenly a cheer was heard when a woman caught the final t-shirt and as she and her friends looked inside another screamed. She spied and grabbed the wristband and ran up and down the steps while the group of eight started jumping for joy.

In no time, Desert Flight team leader Stephen Williams, who had come up with the idea, was by their side explaining what they just won and guiding them down the stairs to kick off their evening.

The Desert Flight Experience

The years that led to this evening started with a vision and when the Desert Flight team threw their hat in the ring with those creating equine films, they did it with a purpose. Produced by Tell Studios in association with Samia Staehle’s Filter 4 Productions, the documentary is a compelling look at the horses and riders that compete in this highly demanding sport.

Executive director, Staehle, who competes herself, wanted to show the drive that it takes to be the best in the sport, and the compelling bond that is the only way to make the horse and rider team successful in competition. The goal was to create a film that would become a love letter to the sport of show jumping. It wasn’t long before Desert Flight became just that, evoking heartwarming emotions from everyone who watched or took part in it.

Since its inception, Desert Flight has been traveling the globe and has been showcased at some of the world’s most eminent equine events. In 2018, that journey took them to the World Equestrian Games in Tryon, NC and later that year to the prestigious EQUUS Film Festival where the film won Best of Festival as well as Best Sports Documentary. Since then it’s been traveling to cities large and small enriching the hearts of many and this evening was no exception.

Meeting Some of the Desert Flight VIP Experience Winners

Among the members who will cherish the memory of this unique opportunity was this group of eight friends who decided to enjoy their first horse show together, since how often do you get a world class horse event right in your own backyard? Encouraged by their colleague, Karen Pekarne, from Little Neck, Queens, they decided to have a girls’ night out never realizing how special it would turn out.

When Karen caught the flying t-shirt that revealed the winning wristband the team of eight were over the moon ready to enjoy their magical night. When given the choice of heading to get some nourishment, their minds were focused on only one thing. What they wanted most was to watch all the world class horses from their VIP seats.

“It was a total surprise and makes a great evening even better,” commented Karen as she and her friends posed for pictures.

While rushing off to catch up to her friends before the class began, she yelled back, “I’m excited to see the performances and the beautiful horses. This is really going to be a wonderful night.”

After the night was over, Karen couldn’t contain her thrill for what she and her friends had experienced. “The competition was exciting and different from anything I’ve ever seen. I loved the way the class was run. The riders and horses were just spectacular and talented and gorgeous to watch. We also attended the after party — so fun!”

On Sunday it was a family of four that caught the elusive t-shirt and wristband. Mackenzie Wood, who lives in New Hampshire, had never seen a horse show of this caliber before. So her father surprised her with tickets to the show. She went with her parents and grandfather and was overjoyed when the VIP Experience was added into the mix.

“It was so cool to catch the t-shirt and I was super excited to get the VIP Passes,” she commented as she and her family were getting ready for the competition to start.

Thanks to Desert Flight, a fun-filled afternoon and evening really did get even better!

Just What Is Desert Flight About?

Enamored by the horses, they all wanted to know more about the Desert Flight movie and how they could see it. In fact, this documentary short film delves into the unique relationship with the horse and why those who have been bitten by the horse bug dedicate so much time and energy to their equestrian life.

It is that sense of bonding and the visceral way in which horses enrich our lives and heighten our senses that the team of writers and videographers succeeded in capturing. It shows the strong passion and love that comes with being one with your horse and the incredible connection that these horse show people share. Whether it’s a child with a backyard horse, or an Olympian competing at the highest level, that horse-human bond is very strong.

Initially, the goal was to do something modest, just a 4-5-minute piece. However, that soon changed and grew like the branches of a tree into a full 39-minute documentary.

The film features some of the top equestrians, even some Olympic gold medalists and hearing their stories will melt your soul. The beauty is that even their candid honest words will touch your core as you attempt to hide a few tears.

If you are one of the few who has not seen this film, don’t despair: you can stream it for free via the USEF Network. For those who are not yet members of US Equestrian, a free fan membership is available to anyone using the promo code “desertflight” on the federation’s website (https://www.usef.org/network). For additional information, visit www.desertflightmovie.com and follow #desertflightmovie on social media.

dderosa1@optonline.net
516-848-4867

Jump Media, Show Jumping

Nayel Nassar Writes History in Longines Grand Prix of New York

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Nayel Nassar and Lucifer V. Photo by Jessica Rodrigues for EEM.

New York, NY – Nayel Nassar of Egypt treated the crowd to a fabulous finish in the $400,000 Longines Grand Prix of New York, the grand finale of the Longines Masters of New York, on Sunday, April 28, at NYCB LIVE.

German course designing mastermind, Frank Rothenberger, created a difficult test for the 29 horse and rider combinations brave enough to accept the challenge, knowing 12 of them would be lucky enough to move on to the second round. Six riders representing six different nations managed to jump clear over the tough track and were joined by the six riders who had posted the fastest four-fault rounds for an all-deciding final.

Going in reverse order of standing and carrying faults forward from the first round, the tension mounted as the double clear performances began to present themselves. Captain Brian Cournane of Ireland was the first to jump double clear with Dino but his conservative time of 45.88 seconds left the door wide open for the riders who followed. Israel’s Daniel Bluman received a huge cheer from the crowd when he jumped clear in a time of 41.95 seconds with Landriano Z, putting him in fourth in the final standings.

Olivier Philippaerts, 25, of Belgium was one second faster in 40.93 seconds riding H&M Cue Channa 42 and looked unbeatable but, as the saying goes, it’s not over until it’s over.

Dutch show jumping sensation Harrie Smolders, currently ranked number four in the world, did the seemingly impossible by leaving all the rails in place and racing home in a time of 39.46 seconds to move to the top of the leaderboard, riding Une de l’Othain, an 11-year-old Selle Francais mare owned by his student, Jennifer Gates, and her Evergate Stables LLC.

In a breathtaking performance, Nassar’s partnership with the 13-year-old Westphalian gelding, also owned by Evergate Stables LLC, was on full display as they cleared hurdle after hurdle with the greatest of ease, and in a deceptively fast time. When they galloped home through the timers in 38.59 seconds, the crowd erupted. New York had its winner!

Not only was Nassar the first rider to ever win both the Longines Speed Challenge and the Longines Grand Prix at the same event, he was the first to do it with the same horse.

“It’s unexpected, really! It means the world. Thank you, Christophe [Ameeuw], for providing us with this platform. We can’t showcase what we do without a platform to do it on and I’m really grateful. I’ve always loved these shows and hopefully I can keep making it a target of mine.” ~ Nayel Nassar

Contact: Jennifer Wood
jennifer@jumpmediallc.com

Jump Media, Show Jumping

European Domination Continues in Riders Masters Cup at Longines Masters of New York

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Lillie Keenan and Chaccolette for Riders USA. Photo by Jessica Rodrigues for EEM.

New York, NY – Riders Europe claimed their fourth consecutive Riders Masters Cup title on Saturday, April 27, at the Longines Masters of New York, held at NYCB LIVE, Home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. The Longines Masters of New York concludes on April 28 as the third leg of the Longines Masters Series following stops in Paris and Hong Kong.

In a concept unique to the Longines Masters, the Riders Masters Cup pits five-member teams from Europe and the United States in a head-to-head battle.

The opening round saw Lillie Keenan, Riders USA team’s requisite Under 25 rider, matched up against Pius Schwizer riding Cortney Cox. Keenan dropped two rails for eight faults riding Chaccolette while Schwizer kept them all in place, giving Riders Europe the advantage of 10 points to Team USA’s five points.

“I am proud of this group. I was able to create a real team spirit since the beginning of the week; we have all been eating together, for example. For the sake of the competition, it would be nice if Riders USA manage to win in the Riders Masters Cup. But for that to happen, Riders Europe will have to change the team leader – I like to win too much!” ~ Riders Europe Captain Philippe Guerdat

“It seems like it was a pretty big margin and, in some ways, it was, but with just a couple things going differently we could have won it. It’s not fun losing.  I don’t enjoy losing and none of us were particularly happy about that but the format, I think, is tremendous.  It’s unique and we will be back again in Paris and we hope for a different result.” ~ Riders USA Captain Robert Ridland

Contact: Jennifer Wood
jennifer@jumpmediallc.com

Jump Media, Show Jumping

Star-Studded List to Compete at Longines Masters of New York

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New York, NY – Thirteen Olympians and four of the top-ten riders in the world will ascend on the northeastern United States for the Longines Masters of New York, running April 25 through 28, 2019, at NYCB LIVE, Home of the Nassau Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum.

The Longines Masters of New York features the 2019 edition of the Longines Grand Prix of New York and the fourth leg of the innovative Riders Masters Cup, which pits Riders Europe and Riders USA teams against each other in multi-phase transatlantic duels. All the action will be made even better with decorated riders representing 12 countries across the globe coming to New York with their very best equine athletes to compete.

From world No. 2 rider McLain Ward and four-time Olympian Beezie Madden of The United States to former world-ranking leader Harrie Smolders of The Netherlands and Darragh Kenny of Ireland, equestrian powerhouses will turn out in full force for the Longines Masters of New York. But they will be contested by some of the sport’s rising stars in Belgium’s Olivier Philippaerts, France’s Edward Levy, and Egypt’s Nayel Nassar, as well as Adrienne Sternlicht, Lillie Keenan, and Jennifer Gates of The United States.

See The Masters One Riders.

Contact: Jennifer Wood
jennifer@jumpmediallc.com

Hunter/Equitation, Jump Media

Longines Masters of New York to Feature Inaugural IHSA Metropolitan Equitation Invitational

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Michael Andrade from Centenary University at the Platinum Performance USEF Talent Search West Finals. Photo by Captured Moment Photography.

New York, NY – Athletes from the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) will showcase their equitation on an international stage at Longines Masters New York. The inaugural IHSA Metropolitan Equitation Invitational will be held April 26 at NYCB LIVE, Home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, in Uniondale, New York at 3 p.m.

Established in Paris, Hong Kong, New York, and recently-added Lausanne, the Longines Masters series was inspired by the legendary tennis Grand Slam. It is considered is one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world. The American leg of the Longines Masters Series will feature international show jumping competition and unparalleled sport with the world’s top-ranked equestrian athletes, as well as luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment. Each Longines Masters event is broadcast in close to 100 countries and reaches up to 260 million households.

Longines Masters of New York has provided two of the most respected authorities on hunter seat equitation to judge the first-ever event. George H. Morris is widely regarded as the founding father of hunter seat equitation. At 14, he won both the ASPCA Maclay Horsemanship Finals and the AHSA Hunt Seat Equitation Medal Finals, the youngest rider ever to achieve the two titles. He is an Olympic silver-medalist and as the U.S. chef d’equipe, he led the team to Olympic gold in 2004 and 2008.

“I’m looking forward to judging the first Metropolitan Equestrian Invitational,” said Morris. “I was the judge at the first IHSA horse show at West Point and support the American system of Equitation. I’ll be judging on the basics of riding: heels down, eyes up, shoulders back, ride forward.”

Brianne Goutal-Marteau will join Morris in the judges’ booth. Goutal-Marteau was the first U.S. junior rider to win all four major equitation finals, including US Equestrian Federation [USEF] Jumping Talent Search Finals-East, the Lindsay Maxwell Charitable Fund WIHS Equitation Finals, the USEF Pessoa Hunter Seat Medal Finals and the ASPCA Maclay National Championships. She was awarded the Maxine Beard Show Jumping Developing Rider honor and has won several grand prix competitions. Goutal-Marteau is a graduate of Brown University, where she competed in the IHSA.

“It’s a totally different kind of experience than anyone, regardless of [level], would have — to go to a show and sit on a horse that you’ve never sat on before. [The horses] come with very specific instructions: you can use a stick on this one, you can use spurs on that one, and if you do, use this size. I think that really sets you up to deal with a plethora of different types of horses,” said Goutal-Marteau, who is a New York native and resides in Manhattan. “I think, as a New Yorker, we’re always wondering, ‘Why aren’t there more shows close by home?’ I think that comes down to the atmosphere, the level of competition, the level of entertainment that the New York Masters provides. Everything is just at the top, top level, and to have it right in your own backyard, I just think it makes everyone so excited.”

For more information, go to IHSAinc.com

Contact: Jennifer Wood
jennifer@jumpmediallc.com

Show Jumping, USEF

The Exciting Longines Masters of New York Is Back

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Top riders in the world will gather for the Longines Masters of New York, April 25-28, as the Riders USA team seeks to earn the win against the Riders Europe team in the thrilling speed duals that make up the Riders Masters Cup, a new intercontinental jumping event. On Saturday, April 27, the Longines Masters of New York will host the fourth edition of the Riders Masters Cup, which has been dominated by the Riders Europe team since its inception. But in April, in front of a home crowd and with an enthusiastic audience cheering them on, the Riders USA team may have the home-team advantage.

The action for top international riders continues with the Longines Masters Grand Prix of New York on Sunday, April 28, and the Longines Speed Challenge on Friday, April 26, while up-and-coming riders go head to head in the Masters Two classes each day, ranging from 1.15m to 1.45m. Tickets are available for day and evening sessions. Other entertainment includes the AKC Agility Premier Cup canine agility competition on Thursday, April 25, the IHSA Metropolitan Invitational collegiate rider competition on Friday, April 26, and the remarkable equestrian performer Santi Serra on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, April 26-28.

Head to www.longinesmasters.com/en/new-york for the full schedule, information, and tickets.

Buy your tickets before April 7 and save 20% on all session tickets using promo code USEF20.

© 2019 US Equestrian Federation

Jump Media, Show Jumping

The Countdown to the Longines Masters of New York IS On

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Photo by Sportfot.

New York, New York – After a celebrated debut at NYCB LIVE, Home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, in 2018, the Longines Masters Series will return to the United States with the Longines Masters of New York on April 25-28, 2019.

The Longines Masters Series got underway with the 10th anniversary of the Longines Masters of Paris at the end of November 2018 and will soon make its way to Hong Kong from February 15-17, 2019, before heading across the Atlantic to New York.

Last year’s Longines Masters of New York highlights included a victory in the Longines Grand Prix of New York for 2017 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final champion and three-time U.S. Olympic medalist McLain Ward riding Clinta. The 2019 edition of the Longines Masters of New York promises to provide even more thrilling moments to delight athletes and horse sport fans alike. With top sport spanning four days, riders from all corners of the world will converge on New York.

For more information, see www.longinesmasters.com.

Jump Media, Show Jumping

McLain Ward Claims Stunning Victory in Longines Grand Prix of New York

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McLain Ward and Clinta. Photo by Sportfot.

McLain Ward (USA), hailing from Brewster, NY, thrilled a hometown crowd with a flawless triumph in the $382,800 Longines Grand Prix of New York during the final day of the highly-anticipated Longines Masters of New York on Sunday, April 29. Making its long-awaited debut in the heart of the Empire State as the American Grand Slam, the Masters celebrated its 25th competition with an event on American soil as part of Season III of the Longines Masters Series after events in Paris and Hong Kong earlier in the season.

In front of an exhilarated crowd at NYCB LIVE, Home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, the 2017 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping champion and three-time U.S. Olympic medalist led a victory gallop that represented the world’s greatest show jumping talent. Ward and Clinta, an 11-year-old Oldenburg mare by Clinton x Lord Pezi, was the pair to beat in a star-studded jump-off over courses conceived by Dutch course designer Louis Konickx.

The Longines Masters of New York saw top sport throughout four days of competition and Konickx’s tracks rose to the occasion each day. Stopping the short-course clock in a blistering 34.92 seconds, Ward commented on the course designing team, saying, “[Course design] is a real art and I thought it was fantastic for the inaugural event. You have a big crowd, an exciting jump-off, and the course was challenging but it allowed for a few clear rounds and great sport in the jump-off, which is great for the fans.

“It’s always nice to win on your home soil in the U.S. and extra special in New York,” continued Ward. “I can remember years ago when I was a young kid, I won a grand prix at [Madison Square] Garden and that was very special because it was the home state and the home city. It was very special again today here.”

Erynn Ballard (CAN) was poised to become only the second woman to ever win a Masters Grand Prix along with Pénélope Leprévost of France, who earned a Paris title in 2011, when she went clear from the first position in the order. Setting the pace again in the jump-off, Ballard sat in the lead on a time of 35.89 seconds riding Fantast, a 13-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding by Toulon x Rubens du Ri d’Asse owned by Sagamore Farms.

“New York has always been good to me and I would say this is a career best for me from start to finish,” said Ballard after a banner week that also included a win in the $100,000 Longines Speed Challenge on Friday evening. “I had a big win in the Maclay Finals at Madison Square Garden [in 1998] and everyone was saying New York was my place. I think that’s true for this week. I was hoping for two top 10 finishes and I got three podium finishes. There’s not much more you can do than that.”

Two-time Olympic silver medalist Peder Fredricson (SWE) was hungry for a win and gave a lesson in speed with Hansson WL, the 10-year-old Swedish Warmblood gelding by Indra WL x Iowa owned by Måsel AB. He stopped the clock at 35.43 seconds to claim second and bump Ballard to third, but was no match for Ward.

“It’s always difficult to beat McLain,” said Fredricson, who is the reigning Longines FEI European Champion. “He is always quick, but I was really happy with my round. My horse jumped fantastic. If I could have done something, maybe I could have turned tighter to the second to last [jump].

“As a rider, it’s fantastic to ride here,” continued Fredricson on his time in New York. “You really feel the crowd and also in the prize giving, you get really good contact with the people in the audience. I really enjoyed my time here.”

Rounding out the top placings, Olympic team gold medalist Kevin Staut (FRA) took fourth in 36.26 seconds riding Vendom d’Anchat HDC, while Adrienne Sternlicht (USA) was fifth aboard Cristalline in 38.35 seconds.

Ward and his winning mount recently joined forces after he added the ride to his already stacked string, which is made up of five grey mares including Clinta along with his World Cup champion HH Azur.

“It’s great to see her showing all that I thought she could be,” said Ward of the mare he owns with Sagamore Farms. “I saw her in Aachen last summer and fell in love with her, but it took me seven months to get her. She made a great effort today and it was my day.”

A New York native, Ward was complimentary of the Longines Masters of New York and the efforts of its management to introduce unparalleled sport and entertainment to the American market, saying, “They’re really making this an entertainment spectacle, which is phenomenal. It’s something that’s been missing in promoting our sport; making it more exciting to a more diverse audience.”

McLain Ward is now the new contender for the Grand Slam Bonus of €1,000,000 for winning three Longines Grand Prix consecutively in New York (Season III), Paris (Season IV), and Hong Kong (Season IV).

Christophe Ameeuw, CEO and Founder of EEM, had dreamt of bringing the Longines Masters to New York since he conceived the idea of a high-performance show jumping series.

“On behalf of the entire team at EEM and the Longines Masters Series, we want to thank the riders, our partners, our exhibitors, and most importantly, our fans, for making Season III a successful and historic event,” said Ameeuw. “The past four days have exhibited the world’s top athletes and showcased some of the best performances in show jumping history. Bringing the Longines Masters Series to New York has always been a dream and we’re thrilled to have received such a warm welcome. We look forward to continuing this legacy for years to come.”

Madison Goetzmann Wins Prestigious Masters Two Sam Edelman Grand Prix

In a thrilling finale to the Masters Two division at the inaugural Longines Masters of New York, 17-year-old Madison Goetzmann (USA) displayed talent well beyond her years to win the $35,000 Sam Edelman Grand Prix following a seven-horse jump-off.  Riding Prestigious, her 11-year-old Westphalian gelding, Goetzmann of Skaneateles, NY took every risk in the jump-off before galloping through the timers in 35.55 seconds.  With 1984 World Cup champion Mario Deslauriers (CAN) last to go in the jump-off, the crowd was on the edge of its seat as the two-time Canadian Olympian gave it his best effort aboard Bardolina 2, a nine-year-old Holsteiner mare owned by Wishing Well Farm.  It was close, but not close enough, as the pair stopped the clock in 35.70 seconds to finish runner-up.  Megan McDermott (USA) rounded out the top three after incurring four faults in the jump-off in a time of 35.42 seconds.

“It’s amazing!” said Goetzmann of her Longines Masters debut.  “I wasn’t really sure what to expect but it’s managed so perfectly, it’s a beautiful atmosphere, and the crowds are amazing.  I’m really sad that it’s over!”

With top results throughout the Masters Two division, including a win in Saturday’s Mark Cross Trophy riding Curo, Deslauriers, who resides in New York City, was crowned the Stephex Leading Rider.  His reward was a one-year lease on a Stephex STX 2 horse van.

Serena Marron Saves the Best for Last!

The Masters Three Devialet Grand Prix 1.15m kicked off the final day of show jumping competition at the Longines Masters of New York with a nail-biting finish for Serena Marron (USA) riding Donar J.  Clear rounds were elusive in the opening round until the final two riders, Alexandra Cherubini (USA) riding her 16-year-old Oldenburg gelding, Lando, and Marron aboard her 15-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding, both jumped clear to ensure a two-horse jump-off.

First to go in the tie-breaker, Cherubini was going for broke when she ran into trouble at the double combination, forcing her to circle and costing her a total of 13 faults.  With some breathing room, Marron was able to incur four faults yet still take the win.  Joining Marron and Cherubini on the third step of the podium was fellow American Gabrielle Freund riding No Sunday Sales.

Following four days of intense competition in the Masters Three competition, Summer Paulos (USA) captured the Leading Riding Title with three podium finishes, including two victories.  In recognition of the honor, Paulos was presented with a custom Top Jock x Longines Masters Double Door Trunk, Blanket Box, and Saddle Rack.

For full information on the 2018 Longines Masters of New York, visit www.longinesmasters.com.

Contact: Jennifer Wood
jennifer@jumpmediallc.com

Jump Media, Show Jumping

Riders Europe Claim Narrow Victory over Riders USA in Riders Masters Cup

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Harrie Smolders and Cas 2. Photo by Jump Media.

Team competition was at its finest in a transatlantic showdown between Riders USA and Riders Europe in the innovative $200,000 Riders Masters Cup, presented and created by EEM in collaboration with the European Equestrian Federation.  Show jumping fans were on the edge of their seats as the two teams faced off in a rematch that began at the Longines Masters of Paris back on December 2.  Riders USA chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland (USA) spent the past five months formulating his strategy for a win on home soil and sent out the best of the best to duel against Riders Europe, led by chef d’Equipe Philippe Guerdat (SUI).

In the opening duel, Kevin Staut (FRA) took the win over two-time Olympic team gold medalist McLain Ward (USA) when the American left an uncharacteristic two rails on the floor riding HH Gigi’s Girl.  Georgina Bloomberg then looked like she would emerge victorious with a quick clear aboard Manodie II H but was nipped in the end by Harrie Smolders (NED) to make it two to nothing in favor of Riders Europe.

Olivier Philippaerts (BEL) scored another point for Riders Europe when Adrienne Sternlicht (USA) struggled with her mount, Pembroke, for 12 faults.  Beezie Madden (USA) gave hope to American fans with a clear round aboard Con Taggio to score the first point for Riders USA after Gregory Wathelet (BEL) left a rail on the floor riding MJT Nevados S.  When the final competitor for Riders Europe, 2016 Olympic individual silver medalist Peder Fredricson (SWE), put a clear round on the board with H&M Zaloubet, Laura Kraut was unable to match his faultless performance with Hello Guv’Nor, leaving the opening match score at four to one in favor of Riders Europe.

As the saying goes, especially in show jumping sport, it isn’t over until it’s over.  Facing off in the speed match where double points were on the line, Riders USA had a chance to bring it back for the home crowd.  Ridland adjusted his strategy and sent Kraut back as the lead-off rider.  Riders USA’s confidence swelled when she came out victorious over Philippaerts riding Goofy van T Laerhof with a time of 61.20 versus the Belgian’s time of 61.83 seconds.  That put the score at four to three, with Riders USA quickly gaining on its opponents.

Staut was next in, posting a fast time of 57.43 riding Ayade de Septon et HDC that was soon eclipsed by Madden.  The newly-crowned Longines FEI World Cup Final champion brought in a fresh mount, Jiva, and raced to victory in a time of 57.02 seconds as the crowd went wild.  Suddenly Riders USA had pulled into the lead five to four.

New York City’s sweetheart Bloomberg laid it all on the line in the speed duel, leaving Wathelet in the dust with a brilliant ride.  Riders USA was staging a comeback of epic proportions, surging ahead seven to four.

The excitement continued to mount as Riders USA’s hopes looked bright, but Riders Europe were still breathing down its neck.  Sternlicht gave it her best shot with Pembroke, but when a rail fell Fredricson claimed two valuable points for Riders Europe, tightening the gap and making it seven to six in favor of the Americans.

It all came down to the final duel, which saw two of the fastest riders in the world pitted against each other.  Ward took no prisoners, guiding HH Gigi’s Girl home in a blistering fast time of 54.82 seconds.  Smolders had the weight of a continent riding on his shoulders, but the Dutchman never faltered, taking every risk to cross the timers in an unbelievable 52.91 seconds – by far the fastest time of the night – with Cas 2.  His perfectly calculated and executed performance gave Riders Europe the edge, putting the defending champions from Paris ahead by a nose to win eight to seven over Riders USA.

“It went right down to the wire!” exclaimed Guerdat of his team’s victory.  “We knew USA would be strong tonight because, as Robert said, after Paris they wanted to win back at home.  I have a team who are all champions and the best in the world at the moment.  It would be difficult to get a better team than this!”

Ridland was quick to promise that Riders USA will put up a strong fight the next time the two teams meet.

“We’re not giving up,” the American chef d’Equipe pledged.  “We went down to the wire in Paris and we went down to the wire again tonight.  That final duel was really one for the ages.  We put up one hell of a fight and a great second-half comeback.  We clawed our way back, and that’s what sport is about.

“It’s really exciting to see the top riders in the world going for speed,” concluded Ridland.  “It’s a great format, and I think everybody got their money’s worth tonight.  We’ll be back again!”

While Riders Europe claimed the first edition of the Riders Masters Cup, Riders USA promise a strong comeback for bragging rights when the next edition of the Riders Masters Cup is staged at the Longines Masters in Paris from November 30 to December 2, 2018.

Next Generation of Show Jumping Superstars Showcased in U25 Grand Prix EEM

The show jumping stars of the future were put in the international spotlight Saturday night by EEM with the U25 Grand Prix, open to athletes aged 25 and under.  Founder and producer of the Longines Masters, EEM affirmed its commitment to propelling the next generation forward in their sporting careers.  It was an all-American podium finish, much to the delight of the home crowd, with Catherine Wachtell (USA) of Long Valley, NJ, snatching the win following a five-horse jump-off.  Coached by Todd Minikus (USA), who is competing in the Masters One division in New York, Wachtell, 23, earned the victory with a time of 34.96 seconds aboard Indy van de Roten, a 10-year-old Belgian Warmblood mare owned by Autumn View Farm.

Hot on her heels was 17-year-old Samantha Cohen (USA) and Carmen, her 11-year-old grey Dutch Warmblood mare.  With Olympic team gold Medalist Laura Kraut as her coach, Cohen gave it her best effort trying to catch Wachtell but fell short of the win when stopping the clock in 35.75 seconds to finish runner-up.  Taking third step on the podium was Samantha Wight, 20, who took a conservative approach, jumping clear in a time of 40.92 seconds aboard Edison.

“It’s a great division and I think it’s one of the most competitive because you have all the young talent and really amazing horses,” said Wachtell, a recent Georgetown University graduate who will be attending Fordham Law School in New York in the fall.  “It’s tough, but it’s really awesome to be a part of!”

Harrie Smolders Scorches to Victory in Masters One Kingsland 1.45m

The world’s best show jumping athletes were once again showcased at the Longines Masters of New York in the $60,000 Masters One Kingsland 1.45m on Saturday, April 28.  Dutchman Harrie Smolders (NED), who is poised to ascend to the number one position in the Longines World Rankings, topped a six-horse jump-off to take the win.  Riding the 13-year-old Holsteiner stallion Capital Colnardo for owner Copernicus Stables, Smolders took charge of the jump-off by blazing around the shortened jump-off track in a time of 33.12 seconds, overtaking the lead from Emanuele Gaudiano (ITA), who had stopped the clock in 34.05 seconds aboard the nine-year-old Oldenburg stallion, Chalou.  Edward Levy (FRA) took third position on the podium riding Rafale d’Hyverniere after posting a clear jump-off performance in a time of 34.84 seconds.

“It was quite a good class with only six clears,” said Smolders of the Masters One 1.45 competition presented by leading European apparel company, Kingsland.  “(Course designer) Louis Konickx did a good job; it was quite delicate.  It was not very big, but still tough in enough to jump.  The time was perfectly set.  In the jump-off, there were very fast ones straight away.  I saw Emanuele Guadiano and thought he had a good pace; into the double combination he could have gone maybe a little faster.  That is the only place he left a little gap, and that is where I tried to beat him.”

Of his appearance in the inaugural Longines Masters of New York, which joins Paris and Hong Kong in the series, Smolders noted, “It is always a high-standard event, very exclusive with high quality service.  We are always happy to come to the Longines Masters anywhere in the world!”

American Victory as Devin Ryan Tops the Lamborghini Masters Power Six Bar

Requiring horsepower in its own right, the $20,000 Lamborghini Masters Power Six Bar saw the fences grow higher and higher as competitors fell by the wayside.  The last man standing was Devin Ryan (USA) and his 12-year-old Hanoverian mare, Florida, the only pair to successfully clear the final height of 1.80m and claim victory.

Hot off his impressive second-place finish in the recent 2018 Longines FEI World Cup Final in Paris, the Longines Masters of New York was Ryan’s first appearance back on American soil.  Hailing from nearby New Jersey, Ryan did not disappoint the home crowd, who willed the pair over each of the six fences on their way to the win.

“I decided I was going to do it for the spectators,” said Ryan, 36, of his decision to enter the Lamborghini Masters Power Six Bar with Florida, a horse he started riding last fall that goes by the nickname ‘Bambi’.  “She’s a really careful mare and it’s always good for a horse to go in a ring and do something a little different.  It was just like doing a gymnastic at home.  I don’t normally jump this high at home but if the horse can do it, it can do it.  She’s super easy to deal with, but when she puts her eye on a jump she turns into a spitfire and she lights up.”

Three riders tied for the runner-up spot after having a fence down in the final test.  Longines Ambassador of Elegance Jane Richards Philips (SUI) partnered with Calinesse de Guldenboom and two up-and-coming American female show jumping stars, Mavis Spencer (USA) aboard Dubai and Kristen Vanderveen (USA) riding Bastian 86, all tried their best, but only Ryan successfully left all the rails in the cups in a true demonstration of horse power.

Canada atop Masters Two Mark Cross Podium

Kicking off Saturday competition at the Longines Masters of New York, two-time Canadian Olympian Mario Deslauriers climbed to the top of the podium after claiming the Masters Two Trophy Mark Cross 1.40m. Deslauriers and Curo, a nine-year-old Oldenburg gelding were fastest in the one-round speed event to cross the timers clear in 57.11 seconds for the win.

“Curo is a blast to ride,” said Deslauriers, who competes for his home country of Canada, but now calls New York City home. “It was a nice change to bring him inside and show him the new fences, the crowd, and all the activity. He really grew up a lot this week.”

Deslauriers is at the Longines Masters of New York with his 18-year-old daughter Lucy, who is competing in the Masters One CSI5* division, saying, “Overall, the event is great and a nice new flavor. To have an indoor event with all the background performances, the boutique area, and this level of sport is a fresh look and I think we need more of that.”

Fellow Canadian competitor Wesley Newlands took second and Samantha Wight (USA) finished third.

Jennifer Kocher Wins Masters Three Oscar de la Renta 1.25m in Fine Fashion

Saturday’s highlight competition in the Masters Three division, the Oscar de la Renta 1.25m, was won by Jennifer Kocher (USA).  The win did not come easily as eight riders passed the first round test to advance to the jump-off over the course set by Louis Konickx of the Netherlands.  Four riders again jumped clear in the tie-breaker with Kocher posting the winning time of 36.02 seconds riding Elion V, a nine-year-old Dutch Warmblood stallion owned by her husband, Andrew Kocher (USA), who is contesting the Masters One division at the Longines Masters of New York.

Tori Corts (USA) finished second with a time 36.90 seconds riding the 14-year-old Chico Bello while Sweden was represented on the podium by Sophie Mörner, the only rider to qualify two horses, both owned by Lövsta Stuteri, for the jump-off.  It was her younger mount, the nine-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, Elliot, who stopped the clock in 38.46 for third place.

For full information on the 2018 Longines Masters of New York, visit www.longinesmasters.com.

Contact: Jennifer Wood
jennifer@jumpmediallc.com

Jump Media, Show Jumping

Fantastic Finish for Erynn Ballard in Longines Speed Challenge of New York 1.50m

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Erynn Ballard and Fantast. Photo by World Red Eye for EEM.

Canada’s Erynn Ballard (CAN) emerged victorious riding Fantast in the $100,000 Longines Speed Challenge at the Longines Masters of New York.  It was an all-female podium finish as the women outran the men in one of the only Olympic sports where the sexes compete as equals.  Contesting the identical track that riders already faced in the Season III Longines Masters of Paris and Hong Kong, Ballard’s speed prowess allowed her to take a two-second penalty for a dropped rail yet still emerge victorious with a time of 60.62 seconds.  Considered the world’s speed championship, Ballard’s time in the Longines Speed Challenge was faster than the 60.99 achieved by Julien Epaillard on home ground in Paris and eclipsed the time of 63.47 that Philipp Weishaupt of Germany posted riding Chacon in Hong Kong.

Leading into the competition, Longines Ambassador of Elegance and Co-founder of The Golden Hat Foundation Kate Winslet met local New York children with Autism and accepted a check on behalf of The Golden Hat Foundation, the Longines Masters of New York official nonprofit partner. The Longines Masters of New York also honored Long Island military with a procession by the Marine Corps color guard and mounted police, and EEM received an official citation issued by Nassau County officials, welcoming the Longines Masters Series to New York.

“The Golden Hat Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to changing the way people on the autism spectrum are perceived, by shining a light on their abilities and emphasizing their potential. With proper education and career training, these individuals can truly realize their dreams. Tonight is a shining example of how organizations, like Longines and the Longines Masters of New York, can make an impact to further Autism Awareness in their community,” said Winslet.

New York’s Brianne Goutal-Marteau (USA) kept all the rails in place aboard Fineman, owned by Rose Hill Farm, but finished more than a full second behind Ballard’s time, stopping the clock in 61.86 seconds.  As the first rider on course, Kristen Vanderveen (USA) set the early pace with a time of 62.04 seconds that kept her on the podium in third place with Bull Run’s Faustino de Tili.

“I don’t think there’s anything better!” said Ballard of her Longines Masters debut.  “I was excited to ride here tonight in front of a big crowd; they were cheering for you and cheering for Canada.  As soon as you walk in the ring, you are excited to be here.  It’s really an honor.”

Speaking of the key to her victory with the13-year-old Belgian Warmblood stallion owned by Sagamore Farms, Ballard said, “I think the biggest difference is that my horse has so much natural speed.  His legs are fast, he has a big-stride, and he can turn fast.  I think we won from start to finish.  He’s that fast!”

Created in 2010 by EEM, Founder and Producer of the Longines Masters Series Paris Hong Kong New York, the Longines Speed Challenge is the fastest show jumping competition in the world and always a crowd favorite.  The Longines Speed Challenge is presented by Longines, Title Partner and Official Timekeeper of the Series.

Belgium’s Gregory Wathelet Tops International Jump-Off in Masters One Douglas Elliman Real Estate 1.50m

Gregory Wathelet stood atop an international podium following his sensational win in the $35,000 Masters One Douglas Elliman Real Estate 1.50m on Friday evening, April 27, at the Longines Masters of New York. As the first of six riders to contest the shortened jump-off track set by Dutch course designer Louis Konickx, Wathelet laid down the gauntlet by steering Iphigeneia de Muze to a clear round in a time of 31.74 seconds. None who followed was fast enough to catch the Belgian Olympian, with French speed master and 2014 World Championship double silver medalist Patrice Delaveau posing the biggest threat with a time of 32.13 seconds aboard Aquila HDC, a 13-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by Haras des Coudrettes. Canada’s Erynn Ballard ensured podium representation from north of the U.S. border by taking third with Catoki’s Son Z for owners Ilan Ferder and Tal Milstein.

“She is ten, but she hasn’t done so much at this level,” said Wathelet of his winning mount, a 10-year-old Belgian Warmblood mare owned by Dawa Invest – JL Horses. “I have had her for three years, but I took my time. In the last few shows she got better and better. This was the first time she has been on the plane and I was a bit worried, but she did fine.

“We are all familiar with the Longines Masters in Paris and Hong Kong and this is the same concept with a big show that has a great atmosphere,” continued Wathelet. “This is new and the place is good. I hope the weekend brings the same kind of atmosphere as Paris because that is what makes a show!”

Mavis Spencer Reigns over Masters Two 1.45m

Los Angeles, CA native Mavis Spencer dominated the jump-off of the Masters Two Eastern Hay 1.45m competition to earn her first win at the Longines Masters of New York. Riding Sweet Tricia, a nine-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare that she characterizes as having everything one looks for in a top horse, Spencer bested a three-horse jump-off with a double-clear performance in 39.10 seconds.

“I did the Longines Masters of Los Angeles two years ago and I think it is incredible to have the European environment and horse show that they are able to create here,” said Spencer, whose family spends a lot of time in New York, making it her second home. “This is a super venue and the Longines Masters has done a really nice job. I was really excited to be able to come and show here in New York.”

Joining Spencer on the podium, New York, NY resident and trainer at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY, Lucy Davis (USA) rode Cassis 54 to second. They were also clear over the short course in 44.27 seconds. Canada’s Bretton Chad rounded out the top three with The Pugilist on five faults.

Ireland Victorious in Masters Two 1.35m

Jonathan Corrigan won for his home country of Ireland in the first class of Day 2 at the Longines Masters of New York on Friday, April 27. Fifth in the ring from a field of 21, he claimed the Masters Two Écuries d’Ecaussinnes 1.35m accumulator competition with a clear round for 65 points – the class sponsor is the breeding and sport stable founded in 1997 by Christophe Ameeuw, CEO of EEM. A time of 44.14 seconds riding Javas Keltic Mist, a 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding, gave the Irish duo the win. Also jumping clear for podium appearances, Tori Corts (USA) took second on Chellini and Cara Raether Carey (USA) finished third riding Cocarie.

Summer Paulos Can’t Be Beat

For the second day in a row, Summer Paulos stood atop the Longines Masters of New York podium after winning the Masters Three The Fuel Stop 1.25m speed competition. Hailing from Newtown, CT, Paulos and Balans RV, a 12-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, topped the field by recording a clear round in 49.53 seconds. The time was just over a second ahead of runner up and New York native Charles Stevens. He and Balando finished second, while Lilli Hymowitz took third riding Cylana.

Alexandra Cherubini Has the Speed

Speed was key in the Masters Three Old Salem Farm 1.15m competition. Alexandra Cherubini of Boston, MA had just that to top the field riding her own Lando, a 16-year-old Oldenburg gelding. They broke the timers clear in 49.03 seconds for the victory. Gabrielle Freund set an early lead as the first to go, but settled for second riding No Sunday Sales. Rounding out the podium positions was Grace Busch, who took third for the second day in a row aboard Royal Landor.

For full information on the 2018 Longines Masters of New York, visit www.longinesmasters.com.

Contact: Jennifer Wood
jennifer@jumpmediallc.com