Monday, July 6th was the first day that any horse show was given permission from the State of New York to legally operate. HITS took advantage of the fabulous day, culminating with a $100,000 Grand Prix that featured an excellent field of High Performance riders. Four riders were clean in the first round and returned for the jump-off.
As the last to return and with only one other clear rider in the jump-off, McLain Ward had the goal of being careful and quick as he navigated CATOKI through the shortened course. A time of 38.984 secured the win for Ward, and he said, “It’s great to get back showing here in Saugerties. This field of horses and riders made this the toughest National level Grand Prix that I have ever competed in, in my life! This was great sport and we are excited for what the next couple of months hold in store”.
2nd Place: Mario Deslauriers & AMSTERDAM 27 [40.493]
3rd Place: Ward & CLINTA [4-Faults, 38.430]
“This is a great start to what looks to be a fantastic summer of showing in Saugerties that will culminate in the AIG $500,000 Grand Prix during the FEI 5-Star event,” said Ward. “So many of my peers were asking me if this series would get off the ground and I must say it is off to a resounding start and looks like fantastic show jumping ahead, with fantastic prize money.”