As the sun set behind the Statue of Liberty and "The Star-Spangled Banner" rang out, Kent Farrington and Creedance flew the flag for the United States of America in the closing 5* thriller in New York.
The American champion’s win was a fitting climax to the sensational inaugural LGCT and GCL Finals on Governors Island and Kent said of the event: “[It’s an] amazing setting, one of the best shows they’ve had this year and great finale to the Tour. [It’s been a] great week, amazing competition, top riders, top horses - you can’t ask for more.”
Determined to be back for next year’s LGCT of New York he added: "I brought two amazing horses here - I thought they were good contenders. I was very happy Creedance was able to win two. I would have liked to get the Grand Prix also but I’ll be back next year for that."
After three days of top sport, entertainment and perfect weather, the crowds and guests left the showground to the iconic music of Frank Sinatra's 'New York, New York'. The New York stage of the team and individual championships saw Ben Maher crowned LGCT Champion repeating last year’s success and London Knights, including Maher, winning the GCL Final. Michael Bloomberg, Donna Karan, Christy Turlington and Longines Ambassador of Elegance Andre Agassi were among the guests for the first-ever leg of the series in New York.
Kent Farrington (USA) took the win ahead of Pieter Devos (BEL) with Espoir and Harrie Smolders (NED) aboard Cas 2. Georgina Bloomberg (USA) set local hearts racing after she finished fourth today with her 10-year-old gelding Chameur 137.