Wellington, Florida, USA – April 18, 2024– Ireland’s Simon McCarthy ( IRL ) opened the second week of the 2024 ESP Spring Series, presented by Florida Coast Equipment, on Thursday with a win in the$ 32,000 Florida Coast Equipment CSI 3* 1. 45m on the grass tournament area at Equestrian Village, home of the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival during the winter season. As part of the ESP Annual Series, Wellington International’s flower series concludes on May 12 for five months.
For a discipline of 63 horses, Andy Christiansen Jr. ( USA ) set the two-phase course. McCarthy, 28, and Gotcha, owned by Rock Ridge Farms, topped the time of the rate period in 30. 42 moments, simply percentages over the runner-up.
Kelli Cruciotti-Vanderveen ( USA ) riding Forever SFN for owner Serenity Farm Show Stables, claimed reserve honors in 31. 02 hours.
Third place was conquered by Grace Debney ( GBR ), riding Boheme de La Roque, two one-hundredths slower than Cruciotti-Vanderveen in 31. 04 moments for landlord Temple Equestrian, LLC.
I knew I had to pass the initial stage and then go for it, ” McCarthy said. There was a left out in the final few lines, which I had no idea whether I would be able to accomplish. When I was it, I kicked, closed my eyes and hoped I got it. And she was right about me, but I believe that was the key to the success of the project. ”
Gotcha, a 13-year-old Holsteiner mare ( Stakkato x Cassini I ), recently became McCarthy’s number-one FEI tap after his other mount, Athletix Hero Z, was sold to compete in the under 25 grand prix ranks. During the 2024 Winter Equestrian Festival ( WEF ) season in Wellington, Gotcha proved she was ready to rise to the occasion with seven top-five finishes in international competition.
“She’s in fantastic shape; perhaps the best shape she’s ever been in, ” said McCarthy. She has won more victories than any other animal has actually won, and we are incredibly close friends. Today was the first time I had ridden her since the middle of last week because I had been away for the past four weeks. That demonstrates to my crew how well they keep the animals happy, healthy, and in shape. ”
This summer, McCarty and his Rock Ridge Farm students may move on from Wellington and divide their time between Connecticut and New York.
Last Benefits –$ 32,000 Florida Coast Equipment Two-Phase Challenge CSI 3* – 1. 45m
1 ) Simon McCarthy ( IRL ) & Gotcha – 0/ 0 – 30. 42
2 ) Kelli Cruciotti Vanderveen ( USA ) & Forever SFN – 0 / 0 – 31. 02
3 ) Grace Debney ( USA ) & Boheme de La Roque – 0 / 0 – 31. 04
Origin: Press Release from Wellington International
Photos: © Wellington International / Cassidy Klein / Sportfot
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Categories: CSI 3*, English, Jumper News Ireland
