With three Olympic medals to his name, 2017 World Cup champion McLain Ward (USA) proved why he is at the top of the sport at the Longines Masters of New York. Forty-four starters attempted to be the fastest over the speed course set for the Masters One Vestrum-Italy 1.45m, but it wasn’t until the penultimate entry of Ward and HH Callas that the winner was revealed. With a time of 58.62 seconds, Ward shot to the top of the leaderboard with the 11-year-old Oldenburg mare owned by Double H Farm, claiming victory over Olivier Philippaerts (BEL). It was serious business for the 24-year-old Belgian, who guided Goofy van T Laerhof, owned by his father, four-time Olympian Ludo Philippaerts, to the runner-up position in 60.12 seconds. Making it a true international podium, Amanda Derbyshire (GBR) and Cornwall BH took third in 61.82 seconds. “It is an exciting new event and a great arena; I really hope it grows into something very special,” said Ward, who is able to commute to the inaugural Longines Masters of New York from his home in nearby Brewster, NY. “Callas is here to compete and she's aiming for the Longines Speed Challenge class on Friday night. She’s a seasoned, quick horse. She can do it all!”
