The CANA Cup has been part of the Spruce Meadows collection since 1977. This historic competition has been won by some of the greats including Ian Millar (CAN), Nick Skelton (GBR) and Beezie Madden (USA). This year, 50 horse/rider combinations stepped through the clock tower hoping to add their name to the champions list.
Fourteen combinations jumped clear first rounds qualifying for the jump off including Canadian fan favourite Eric Lamaze. Leading off the jump off aboard Chacco Kid, the duo delivered a clear and very fast jump off round with a time of 37.80s. Even though he was first in the jump off, Lamaze could not be caught. Australian Rowan Willis jumped clear to a second place finish in a time of 40.72s followed by Kevin Staut (FRA) in third with a time of 41.07s.
"This has been a special venue for me since I was much younger then I am now. I've had the greatest memories here at Spruce Meadows and won some big competitions. One cannot get tired of hearing that noise (crowd cheering) coming through the clock tower. It brings out the best in me and it brings the out best in everyone here" - Eric Lamaze (CAN) on coming into the International Ring through the iconic Clock Tower.