Bromont, QC – Eleven year old, Dutch Warmblood, Pavarotti, provided Todd Minikus with the high notes during Saturday’s Kubota Cup Grand Prix in Bromont, Quebec. They successfully warded off challenges in a jump off field of 13 finalists, which included Pavarotti’s stable pal and second place finisher, Ultimo Van Ter Moude, also ridden by Minikus (USA), effectively blocking the Canadian offense lead by Erynn Ballard (ON).
Winning the Kubota Cup Grand Prix, held at the July 19th International Bromont Tournament, was obviously on his mind, as Todd patted the Kubota utility vehicle for good luck while riding Ultimo Van Ter Moude to the start line. But it was Pavarotti who Minikus rode into first place, winning top money and the traditional, Kubota orange, wool melton, trophy cooler.
Pavarotti was also presented with a SoftStall therapeutic bedding system, given in recognition of the horse’s contribution to the win. Pavarotti’s groom was awarded a basket of grooming supplies presented by Show One Inc. Donning the Kubota Cup trophy jacket for the victory gallop, Minikus received applause and well wishes from the sponsor, Kubota Canada Ltd, as well as an enthusiastic group of spectators.
As American citizens, Minikus and twelve other entrants were unable to accumulate qualifying points towards the Kubota Cup Canadian Show Jumping Series. But with an impressive field of 40 starters competing in the first 2008 Eastern Division qualifier – including a combined compliment of nine Canadian and US Olympians – the high level of competition and obvious good sportsmanship displayed by the international competitors enthused the spectators as Olympic excitement begins to mount.
Yann Candele (CAN) finished in 3rd place on Mustique. Awarded 180 qualifying points as the top placed, Canadian resident, Candele earned an early lead towards the Eastern Canadian Kubota Cup Championships and the opportunity to be invited to the $100,000 Kubota Cup National Final, which will be hosted in early November in Toronto, Ontario.
Rounding out the top 5 positions on Kubota Cup Eastern Leader Board were Erynn Ballard, riding Robin van Roosendael; Jennifer Serek (AB), riding Bottom Line; Lauren Hunkin (ON), riding Larry 0146; and Courtney Vince (ON), riding Nalla.
The Kubota Cup Canadian Show Jumping Series will be presenting the Western Canadian Championships, August 10th upon the completion of the Twin Oaks Derby Show, hosted in Richmond, British Columbia. The second Eastern Division qualifier will be taking place in Ottawa, Ontario August 16th at the Kubota Capital Tournament.
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