Boyd and Crackerjack put in a solid performance to cruise into the lead in the CCI** this afternoon—and an eventful afternoon it was. The weather spanned at least three seasons, from chilly to damp to hot, and following the final 20-minute break, the horses were up to something. Rowdie Adams’ No Money Down got halfway through his test before loosing his cool, spooking sideways, tuning out. You had to admire Rowdie’s patience—she patted his neck and urged him forward, but No Money Down just wasn’t having it. Eventually the judges blew the whistle; today wasn’t their day, but they’ll recollect and be back to prove themselves soon enough.
Rowdie and No Money Down
Wendy Lewis was next, and Mastercraft, too, was spooking sideways in the walk, though Wendy eventually got a handle on him. Luckily the next pair, Donna Miller and ArdCeltic Art, got things back on track with a solid test.
Phillip and Indie
Phillip currently sits second on Indie, whom he’s catch-riding for Jennie this weekend (Brian O’Connor announced she recently injured her leg); Indie’s a big-moving horse and Phillip rode a forward, consistent test.
Holly and Santino
Holly Payne, Kate Samuels and Kelly Williams all rode expressive, accurate tests to go into the top six; Jennifer Simmons and Lestaire’s awesome trot and canter work was sadly compromised by tension in the walk, otherwise I think they would’ve scored much better.
Pony Power: Courtney Sendak and Wil’Ya Love Me
The top six places are separated by less than 5 points: CCI** cross-country’s gonna shake things up.
CCI** Dressage Top 10:
1. Boyd Martin/Crackerjack – 48.50
2. Phillip Dutton/Indie – 49.40
3. Holly Payne/Santino – 50.60
4. Doug Payne/Crown Talisman – 53.10
5. Kate Samuels/Nyls du Terroir – 53.30
6T. Kelley Williams/Brazen Bomber – 53.50
6T. Boyd Martin/Merging – 53.50
8T. Jennifer Simmons/Lestaire – 54.30
8T. Caroline Martin/Petite Flower – 54.30
10. Alexa Kim Perkiel/Apres Ski – 56.30
[Scores]
More CIC** & CCI** videos to come.
