show jumping

Michael Slavin

Joining British veteran ace John Whitaker on the two-man Valkenswaard United team, Wexford’s Bertram Allen jumped a clear and very fast four to be on the winning side in the razzamatazz opening round of the new Global Champions League at Miami last Sunday.

In all, 12 teams of two lined out for the event and in the end it came down to a close battle between United and two other sides – the Miami Glory partnership of Georgina Bloomberg and Kent Farrington and the Antwerp Diamonds represented by Harrie Smolders of Holland and USA’s Andrea Coulter.

Both Whitaker on Lord of Arabia and Allen with Quiet Easy went clear in the first round and on time stood second to Miami Glory after the first round. Whitaker went clear again and it was down to Bertram’s shot at the new course.

An early fence down meant that his four fault time would be the deciding factor. Crossing the line in a blazing 52.72, he recorded the fastest time of the decider for the win. He and John picked up €60,000 for their effort and have given their team of five 30 points going forward to Mexico City this weekend.

The event had the feel of a football match rather than a show jumping contest. The scene was set by the beautiful cheerleaders from the Miami Dolphins. Riders then lined out in their team jerseys emblazoned with their name on the back and sporting their team colours and logos.

While there is no doubt it is a popular event for the riders taking part in the tour, the jury has to be out as to its long term benefit for show jumping. Personally, I feel that it poses no threat at all to the traditional Nations Cup.