Adam Prudent, Wellington, FL, started the show off with a win in the 1.30 Meter Speed class, besting a starting field of 105 entries to grab top honors with his mount Douwe, owned by Atlas Equine Holdings, with a clear round in a time of 51.903 seconds. A full second slower, Emanuel Andrade, representing Venezuela, with his Belita, were second in 52.913. Third place went to Alejandro Karolyi also representing Venezuela and Arena Du Pachis ET, owned by Monica Carrera. The pair completed the course designed by Alan Wade in a time of 53.584 seconds.
Emanuel Andrade returned to the winner's podium as he took first and second place honors in the next class. Andrade took his victory lap for the 1.40 Meter Speed class with his mount, Jenni's Choice, dripping in swag and a huge smile on his face. Andrade's winning ride was completed in 58.517 seconds. He was almost two seconds slower with Gran Mamut, owned by Alder International Management Company, who finished the track in 60.245 seconds. Peter Lutz, Goldens Bridge, NY, with Sam 1091, owned by the rider and QBS Equestrian were third in a time of 60.617.
The opening day culminated with the presentation of the horses which will compete in the FEI classes during the SRJT Columbus International CSI 2*. Presented in hand before a panel of veterinarians, each horse must trot and prove he or she is sound to compete. All 77 of the horses presented were accepted to compete in the division, assuring an exciting event.
