Canadian veterans Kyle Carter (who is currently living in Citra, FL, USA) and his 15-year-old Thoroughbred gelding Madison Park made an incredible comeback at the CIC 3* Chattahoochee Hills Horse Trials, which took place May 17-19 in Fairburn, GA, USA.
Madison Park had been on hiatus since sustaining a serious leg injury while competing in England in 2011. The injury was projected to be career ending, but after a two-year break, Carter’s long-time partner is not only back in action, but once again competing at an advanced level.
The duo kicked off their return to Eventing by putting in an impressive Dressage performance that earned a score of 53.90 and placed them seventh at the end of the first day. During the following day’s Show Jumping phase, “Park” became slightly distracted by shadows and they added eight jumping faults for two lowered rails, bringing them down two spots to ninth position. However, they rose to their final placing of seventh after completing Hugh Lochore’s challenging Cross-Country course on Sunday, incurring 18 time faults, but no jumping faults for a total score of 79.90.
“Given the seriousness of his injury, (Park) really shouldn’t have made it back. It should have ended his career,” said Carter of his 2010 World Equestrian Games, 2008 Olympic Games, and 2007 Pan American Games mount. “Coming to Chatt Hills was about making sure he still had the power and edge to compete at this level. I wanted to make sure that he could still handle it, and he was great. I didn’t feel any residual effects from his injury.”
“He’s a very brave and willing partner, and was spectacular on course,” continued Carter. “I’m so happy to be back on him. He’s such a great competitor and has been a great horse for Canada. I’m very lucky.”
To obtain further information and results, go to www.chatthillseventing.com.
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