The sun was shining over Spruce Meadows as the 'Pan American' presented by Rolex got underway. Opening day featured a single competition on the International Ring, the Mission: Possible 1.50m, where 91 horse/rider combinations set out to begin the tournament on a high note.
Designed by FEI Course Designer Anderson Lima (MEX), the one-round track challenged athletes with 12 obstacles (14 efforts) all to be completed in a time of 80 seconds or less.
Following an impressive first half of his Spruce Meadows tour , Mark Bluman (COL) returned to the International Ring determined to finish on top. Riding Phelina de Septon (Jenson van 't Meulenhof), Bluman delivered the fastest fault-free performance of the day, stopping the clock in 69.94 seconds. His flawless round proved unbeatable, topping a field of 90 competitors to claim the opening international victory of the 'Pan American' presented by Rolex.
“They (the horses) grow a lot here (Spruce Meadows). It's a big atmosphere, it's big jumps. So I think they come here and when they leave they're going to come out better horses-all the horses have been improving well.” Mark Bluman (COL) on how his horses have been improving from competing at Spruce Meadows.
On stage, reigning Belgan champion, Jos Verlooy followed in second place aboard his 11-year-old BWP-mare, Parise van den Dael (I Am Moerhoeve's Star). The pair referred, Lillie Keenan with Emerlon (Emerald) to the third place.
Jos Verlooy did put the cherry on tape, also finishing fourth with SF-gelding, Etundel de Marocy (Diamant de Semilly).
