Farrington Flies to the Finish with Gazelle in the ATB Financial Cup

A storm delayed the final jump-off of Thursday’s ATB Financial Cup at Spruce Meadows as severe winds knocked over jumps and dark clouds encircled the South Calgary facility.

Kent Farrington, the No. 1 FEI ranked rider, eventually was dubbed the winner with his 38.40-second trip around the jump-off course with his horse Gazelle. The elements, of course, can throw a wrench in a show jumper’s competition but Farrington was able to battle through.

“These are sensitive animals, and that’s what part of what makes them so great at their job. They’re very alert and that’s what makes them careful,” Farrington said. “When you add wind and things moving that don’t normally move, it’s very different for the horse and that can be very upsetting or distracting to the horse. It makes it more difficult, for sure.”

Three riders of a seven-rider jump-off were able to complete their round successfully before the storm worsened and the winds picked up. Eric Lamaze, the third rider to attempt the course, battled gale-force winds and had a slow time of 46.15-seconds aboard Chacco Kid. Ashlee Bond had begun her round, but Spruce Meadows suspended the competition in the middle of her ride. She was given another chance after the brief delay and wound up finishing second aboard Chela LS with a time just behind Farrington’s.

Following a brief delay and rebuilding of the jump-off course, the remaining riders completed the jump-off before the lightning and rain began.

Source: Calgary Herald