Farrington is back at the top
The 36-year-old proved why he’s world number one in front of an elated home crowd to take the grand prix
Tryon Fall 5 CSI5*
Tryon International Equestrian Centre, North Carolina, USA
NESTLED at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Mill Spring, the scene at Tryon
International Equestrian Centre on Saturday night was something from an American movie; smoke rising from the barbecue, a rendition of the national anthem, corn for sale and children clinging on to the bucking bronco.
Free entry drew thousands of spectators to cheer on their heroes — and world number one Kent Farrington didn’t disappoint, clinching the $380,000 (£288,000) Rolex grand prix in style aboard Gazelle.
Only three riders managed to navigate Olaf Petersen Jr’s track safely to the jump-off, with Brit Alexandra Thornton racking up 17 faults and Eve Jobs, the daughter of the late Apple founder Steve, taking a tumble.
‘A GREAT ATMOSPHERE’
SECOND to go in the jump-off, Kent took the tightest of turns to an upright to finish in 34.676 seconds, ahead of Mexican Eugenio Garza and Bariano.
The pressure was on for Floridabased Irishman Richie Moloney, who looked on track to take the title, before agonisingly tipping the final fence, pushing him into third.
“He’s got a lot of blood and can be really strong,” said Richie about his Canabis Z stallion Carrabis Z, whom he has had for five years. “But he tries really hard in the ring and wants to be careful. It’s a great atmosphere here with the crowds cheering — it gets you excited in the ring.”
This was a fifth grand prix victory this year for Kent and Robin Parsky’s winning mare.
“Gazelle is a very experienced horse — she’s been around the world and seen a lot,” said Kent. “She’s very sweet at home and a great competitor in the ring. I just try not to make any mistakes, and keep out the way.”
H&H