A field of 76 entries competing over the Michel Vaillancourt (CAN) course design and 21 pairs qualifying for the jump-off made for stiff competition, causing six pairs to withdraw in advance of the second round. Coyle’s strategy was to go as fast as possible as the first rider to test the short course with his own 2010 Irish Sport Horse mare (Kroongraaf x Cruise Oak):
“There were still a good few clears for the jump-off, and I was first. So, I had to be as fast as possible. Luckily, that horse is incredibly fast! I think sometimes it’s better to go first in a jump-off, because you just stick to your plan and everybody else has to try and beat you,” Coyle posited. “Sometimes it works out better!”
A lengthy entry list meant that CHS Krooze got to take an hour break in her stall between rounds, Coyle relayed, which helped to keep her mentally and physically fresh:
“I sent her back to the barn and she got to cool down and take an hour in the stall. I had Farrel to jump in the meantime. Everything worked out great that I got to keep going and keep myself active by jumping another horse, and then by that point it was time to get going for the jump-off.