The final qualifying leg of the $25,000 Markel Insurance 1.45m Jumper Series was contested Saturday afternoon on the Oaks International Grand Prix Field at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park at San Juan Capistrano. Following an exciting five horse jump-off, it was John Pearce leading the victory gallop aboard Cantico, owned by Karen Ball. For the second consecutive week, Savannah Jenkins finished in second; this time, aboard Quitana 11, owned by Georgy Maskrey-Segesman.

Acclaimed FEI 4* course designer Anthony D’Ambrosio (USA) created a technical track that asked riders to demonstrate adjustability around the large grass field. Highlights included the final line, set parallel to the VIP hospitality seating, including a solid 1.45m vertical followed by a strong, forward five-stride to a liverpool oxer, and a quiet eight-stride to a final combination that required riders to push forward through the finish line.

First to cleanly navigate D’Ambrosio’s obstacles was Bjorn Ikast and his horse Castino. Four riders later, Savannah Jenkins matched Ikast, ensuring a jump-off. Lane Clark, John Pearce and Bjorn Ikast, on his second horse, all managed to negotiate the course, fault-free.

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