Hazel Shannon & Willingapark Clifford Close in on Historic Adelaide CCI5*-L Finish

Hazel Shannon and Willingapark Clifford. Photo by Julie Wilson.

Defending champions Hazel Shannon and Willingapark Clifford are nipping at the heels of history this weekend at the Australian International Three-Day Event where they are two steps closer to a historic third win.

She and Terrance Snow’s 14-year-old Thoroughbred became the predicted favorites after posting a 30.2 in the dressage phase — a five-star personal best for this duo that had them sitting second.

They only improved in the cross country phase where a double clear result had them take over the lead, but not after some controversy. Hazel was initially awarded 15 penalties for missing a flag at an arrowhead at 11b, but it was later removed.

Twice a winner at Adelaide, if Willingapark Clifford jumps clear tomorrow, he’ll join an elite club of horses who have won three five-stars at the same venue. The likes of this club include Great Ovation (Badminton ’71, ’72, ’74), Winsome Adante (Kentucky ’02, ’04, ’05), Avebury (Burghley ’12, ’13, ’14), and fisherRocana FST (Kentucky ’15, ’16, ’17).

What an incredible day! 🎥 credit This Esme #mmaus3de #crosscountry #adelaide

Posted by Australian International 3 Day Event on Saturday, November 16, 2019

New Zealand’s Amanda Pottinger joined Hazel as the only other rider to finish clear inside the time with Just Kidding, a 13-year-old Thoroughbred (Fusaichi Pegasus x Gypsy Princess, by Sadler’s Wells).

Amanda and “Ferg” had a dominating performance here last year where they led the pack after cross country in their five-star debut. Four rails dashed their dreams of Adelaide victory, but as it stands today they are less than a rail behind the overnight leaders on a score of 34.1.

Five-star debutants Diane Gilder and Your Attorney took over third place after a clear round with just 5.2 time penalties. Lauren Browne and Sky’s Da Limit came home clear with eight time penalties for fourth place on a score of 39. Fifth place belongs to Stuart Tinney who jumped clear with Leporis (40.7).

Andrew Cooper and Riverbreeze. Photo by Julie Wilson.

Andrew Cooper leads the CCI4*-S with Riverbreeze 34.3 after a faultless performance.

Gemma Tinney and Diabolo. Photo by Julie Wilson.

Gemma Tinney and Diabolo top the CCI3*-L on a score of 29.6.

If you missed anything, re-watch the CCI5*-L action at this link.

Adelaide CCI5*-L: Website, Scores