Despite wet weather earlier in the day, the drizzle began to fade as competition got underway in the CANA Cup 1.55m on Thursday at the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’.
Knowing the strength of the field, FEI Course Designer Leopoldo Palacios (VEN) set a challenging track for the 54 athletes who stepped through the Clock Tower. Time was tight from the start, and only three horse-and-rider combinations managed to produce clear rounds and advance to the jump off.
With victory — and a coveted spot in Sunday’s CPKC ‘International’, presented by Rolex — on the line, Lillie Keenan (USA) and Kick On (Warrior, breeder: Brendon Stud) were last to return to the International Ring in the jump off.
The pressure was on, but Keenan executed her plan with precision. The pair delivered a fast, fault-free performance, crossing the finish line in 41.03 seconds to claim the CANA Cup 1.55m and secure their place in Sunday’s CPKC ‘International’, presented by Rolex.
“What makes our sport so special is it's also an art. And it's about that unison of the horse and the rider, and you have to do that under time pressure.” Lillie Keenan (USA) on her enjoyment of a tight time allowed.
After a Jump-Off with three, Sophie Hinners placed as runner-up aboard Iron Dames My Prins (Zilverstar T, breeder: Ludo Philippaerts). Former Olympic Champion, Ben Maher completed the stage aboard H. Wulf-Hinrich's bred, Catelly (Catalido).
