Canada’s Olympians had a rough go of it in the $50,000 Weston Canadian Open for International Jumpers at Toronto’s Royal Horse Show on November 14th. Americans McLain Ward and Laura Kraut, hot off their Team Gold at the Olympics, took first and third respectively, with Britain’s Michael Whitaker narrowly edging into the second position.

Ward, with his 16-year-old veteran campaigner Goldika 559, executed the course in style, taking almost the identical route that teammate Kraut had taken 15 horses earlier. Like most riders, Ward credited his horse and her vast experience for their success tonight.

“I really just tried to stay out of her way tonight,” said Ward. “She made a really good turn after the white vertical at the top of the ring, back to the blue oxer heading home. That’s just her experience and handiness. She really never lets you down.”

Unfortunately “Team Silver Medal” as they are affectionately known, encountered trouble. Ian Millar had two rails down, Lamaze three and Henselwood opted to retire after her mount Black Ice bucked so hard between fences that they were forced to circle to regain control. Long-time Canadian team member Beth Underhill was the top-placed Canadian finishing up in seventh with Tjengo on a clean round and a time of 65.130 seconds.

By the time the competition ends, over $795,000 will have been awarded in prize money, making The Royal one of the most anticipated competitions of the season. For complete schedules, results and live webcasting, please visit www.royalfair.org.

$50,000 Weston Canadian Open
Rider / Horse / Hometown / Score:Time

1. McLain Ward (USA) / Goldika 559 / Brewster, NY / 0.00 : 51.400
2. Michael Whitaker (GBR) / Insul Tech Wonami Van Den Aard / Notts / 0.0 : 53.100
3. Laura Kraut (USA) / Cedric / Middleburg, VA / 0.00 : 53.730
4. Tim Stockdale (GBR) / Fresh Direct Corlato / Northampton / 0.00 : 53.810
5. Henk Van de Pol (NED) / Dan 7-T / 0.00 : 58.200