Leslie Law and Fernhill Whatever. Photo by Sally Spickard.
No one could quite catch morning leaders Buck Davidson and Quasar in the last group of 10 this afternoon, but a couple did give it their best shot. Leslie Law and Fernhill Whatever showed their professionalism and polish by laying down a lovely test for a 31.0 from the judges, good enough to take over second place.
The Irish Sport Horse gelding is coming off of a second place finish in the CIC2* at Poplar Place, and Leslie has commented in the past that this horse definitely has a plethora of talent, which was evident today.
Tamie Smith and Twizted Syster. Photo by Sally Spickard.
Elisa Wallace and Julie Richards’ tie will move down to equal third place with Leslie’s score, and Tamie Smith moves into fourth place with Twizted Syster on a 33.3. This pair likely wins my favorite test of the day, as the mare looked relaxed, complete with floppy ears, for a fluid and put together test. Tamie gave Twizted Syster lots of big pats after her final halt and salute, and she is surely thrilled with her ride today. I plan to catch up with Tamie later on today, so stay tuned for more.
Bailey Moran and Loughnatousa Caislean. Photo by Sally Spickard.
Also moving up to challenge in the final group was Eventing Dad’s daughter, Bailey Moran, and Loughnatousa Caislean. Bailey and her chestnut Irish Sport Horse put in a very accurate test that really showed off the horse’s movement. This pair scored a 34.2 for fifth place going into cross country.
Julie Richards and Beaulieu’s Cayenne. Photo by Sally Spickard.
Julie Richards also brought her second ride into the top 10, tying for ninth aboard Beaulieu’s Cayenne with a 35.4. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting this mare’s owner, Sher Schwartz, here in Texas, and she’s thrilled to be here not only riding her own horses but cheering Julie on.
We’re on just a brief break now before the USEA Adequan Gold Cup final kicks off with Jon Holling and Proper Timing at 3:08 p.m. CST. Stay tuned for much more from the first day of competition here at the AECs!
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