ERM – Final Result – Leg 2

Alex, who finished in last place in the first competition of the series at the Chatsworth International Horse Trials reversed this form by winning the second leg following faultless show-jumping and cross-country rounds to finish on their dressage mark of 40.1. This performance sent out a warning shot of things may be to come from the 25 year old competitor to his fellow Olympic bound competitors ahead of Rio in eight weeks.

Alex, whose stables are located at Knutsford, Cheshire, said;

“I can’t believe it, we were dead last at Chatsworth and to be here and win is extraordinary. ‘Don’ is an exceptional horse and this win is a huge credit to all of my team. This is my first three star international success on British soil and I think a first for China and to represent my country in such an international field is amazing. I believe Eventing is experiencing a renaissance, the level of competition amongst all the competitors in this Olympic year is incredible and the addition of the ERM series is something really special for the sport that I am very proud to be part of”.

Finishing in second was America’s Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen.  The pair were tipped favourites entering the competition and led after the dressage on 36.5.  However, a rail in the showjumping proved costly, meaning they set out on the cross-country in second place with 40.5 and despite the pair performing a quick and clear round, remaining on top of the podium was impossible after Alex completed with no penalties.  Nevertheless, it was an eye-catching performance for the American selectors, who are expected to name their Olympic team shortly. 

Clarke commented;

“It’s been great fun being part of ERM this weekend, I’ve really noticed the support back in the states via the live stream and on social media. I am delighted with Glen, I set out on cross-country at a safe but good gallop and I’m really pleased his fitness stood up, he’s a real runner and he kept up a great pace”. 

Jonelle Price (NZ) gave the kiwi team selectors a further Olympic team conundrum with her third place podium finish with Faerie Dianimo. The lovely grey mare was foot perfect in both the ERM showjumping and cross-country to finish on their dressage mark to claim the third spot on the podium.