This afternoon marked the kickoff of the Longines League of Nations season in Abu Dhabi. Course designer Santiago Varela (ESP) set up a challenging course that led to several surprises. In the end, the Irish team made a winning start and were joined on the podium by the United Arab Emirates and France.
Ireland was the only team to achieve a flawless final result. The Irish combinations delivered outstanding performances, with double clear rounds from Denis Lynch with Vistogrand (Fantaland, breeder: Nicol Carron), Trevor Breen with Highland President (Clinton, breeder: Heather Black), and Michael Pender with HHS Los Angeles (Le Roi, breeder: Marion Hughes). Jason Foley and Chedington Hazy Toulana (Toulon, breeder: G.J.H Markhorst vd Velde) also competed as part of the winning team.
"This victory is really important for us," said Michael Blake. "I'm incredibly proud of the team for this result. A strong start also provides peace of mind for the rest of the season! For us - as a small nation - the Nations Cups are very important, not to say the most important."
"When I cleared that final obstacle, it was truly emotional," added Trevor Breen. "This Nations Cup was a milestone for me, and I'm grateful that Michael gave me the opportunity to be part of it!"
The United Arab Emirates followed on the podium with eight penalty points. In front of the home crowd, Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi and Chacolu (Chaccomo, breeder: Paul Schockemöhle) delivered a double clear round. France secured the bronze medal.
For the French team, Simon Delestre with Cayman Jolly Jumper (Hickstead) and Kevin Staut with Viscounti du Telman (Toulon) both delivered double clear rounds. 'Les Bleus' finished with a total of 12 penalty points.
Also coursbuilder Santiago reacted. "A huge congratulations to the winners but more to the organizers. It's nice to see how the sport evolves in this region of the world! I do believe all horses did a grood job. My job is offcourse to create a difficult but fair class. Not to put to much pressure in the second round, but keep the level high." says the course builder. "Never forget that in the second round, every fault counts. That put's a lot of pressure on the combinations..."