It was Samual Parot who jumped in the picture at the final day of the Tryon International Equestrian FEI CSI5*. Aboard Couscous Van Orti, Parot finished the 1.50m Suncast Challenge in 35.128 seconds. Parot was one of two combinations to jump double clear around the challenging course designed by Alan Wade. Karl Cook (USA) piloted his ride Caillou 24 to a faultless round and a time of 36.822 seconds, earning them second place. Coming in third to round out top three was Scott Keach (AUS) and Fedor with a time of 37.490 seconds. The class this morning brought an exciting jump-off round featuring six horse and rider combinations and had spectators cheering for Parot, as he dashed through the course and made a big move to the last oxer. Alan Wade delivered another solid course, building two tracks that aimed to test speed and agility. Parot commented on the course, "Alan Wade is really strong course designer and each of his courses are tough, yet fair. In the jump-off I kept seeing good distances. I honestly got a little lucky, and I won. A little luck is always necessary. "Both of my horses jumped well this week and I'm pleased with their performances," he added. Couscous Van Orti, a 2002 Belgian Warmblood gelding (Nabab de Reve x Cash) and Parot have been a team for a little over a year, competing in multiple FEI CSI4* and FEI CSI5* competitions. Parot spoke about the facility, which is growing to be a favorite stop for his team, saying, "Everything here is amazing. It is new, the footing is pristine, and the people are great. Also, the attention to the riders is unlike another show I've been too."
