Young American rider McCutcheon winner of the Boels Prize
The USA, The Netherlands and Italy placed 1,2,3 in the Boels Prize. American rider Carlee McCutcheon set the fastest time (34.19 seconds) with the mare Coco Mercedes. McCutcheon, just 19 years of age, is a pupil of American top rider Laura Kraut.
Second prize went to home rider Siebe Leemans with Maestro Gusto v/d Laarse Heide (35.49 seconds). Italian rider Zoe Lia came in third place with Demont in 36.82 seconds.
Saturday's second showjumping competition was a 2* 1.40m-competition in two phases. Carlee McCutcheon was very pleased with her performance: " This is my second year competing here and I love Rotterdam. The venue is beautiful, the event is well organised and it is very special to be able to compete in the same event as so many big names in our sport."
"I'm an American, but I train with Laura Kraut and her husband, British showjumper Nick Skelton. They have a house in The Netherlands they go to every summer, and I go with them with my horses."
"Winning this competiting with Coco Mercedes was the goal, if I'm honest. We know each other well and after walking the course, I knew it would be possible. Goal achieved, so I'm very happy."
Siebe Leemans comments after his second place: "I'm super happy to be able to compete here with a number of other youth combinations. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience."
"I've competed in many shows, but CHIO Rotterdam is just amazing. The Rotterdam Arena especially is very impressive and the atmosphere is very special. Competing in your home county is of course always extra special."
"And finally, to be able to compete in the same event as the top riders in the 5*-competitions is also very exciting. I'm going to see them ride as much as I can. They're all terrific riders, but they all have their own unique style of riding and I hope I'll be able to learn from watching them."