It was a battle of the titans this evening in the Masters at Jumping Mechelen between USA's Lauren Hough and the two talented Belgian riders Olivier and Nicola Philippearts. Aboard the 13 year old gelding Waterford (by Coolcorron Cool Diamond) Hough was the best in the final fourth round, whilst Nicola took second place in front of brother Olivier. Ten riders competed in tonight exciting Masters class that ended in a jump-off battle between the USA en Belgium. First to go was Olivier and his H&M Forever D Arco Ter Linden. They set for a fast round in 34.39 seconds, however collected eight penalties along the way. Hough and her KWPN bred powerhouse she speed-ed across the course in 30.24 seconds as second to go. But did see a pole come down on the first jump into the double, giving Nicola the chance at a home win if riding a clear. Chilli Willi was enjoying himself across the course and jumpedover the jumps as if they were not there. Having some space over every jump we dare to say that Nicola must now know what it feels like to fly. Sadly the only the only eight years old Cassall stallion got a bit unsettled at the final jump and kicked off the last pole in the triple. By doing so the pair handed the win to USA's Hough as the Belgian rider crossed the finis line in 36.25 seconds being a fair amount slower. Go here to see all the results.
