Let me just say wow. Hats off to Steffen Peters and Ravel. They owned Thursday. All of it. Just swooped down and claimed that Grand Prix victory like it was theirs for the taking. I can't think of a more deserving pair. A pair of kings, with a crowd of thousands roaring their approval all around the arena. As he and Ravel exited the arena, a palpable wave of adrenaline washed over all of us lucky enough to witness it. He hoisted wife Shannon up into the air and held her there, hugging her tightly. Jessica Ransehousen was there assuring him she couldn't be more proud. As second-to-last rider in the order of go, it was almost a certain win, and moments later, after the last ride, the judges took away any last doubts. Fist pumps, broad smiles and hugs all around. My offering: a grin that just wouldn't go away and a high five to Steffen. I wish I could've snagged a photo of that moment, but I already had an IFB in my ear and a microphone in hand, getting ready to interview Steffen for the live broadcast. With a live show being produced, you have to be ready to start as soon as the producer gives the cue in your ear.
Right after that live interview, we got another special interview with Steffen, just for Club Equestrian. The amazing part about having an opportunity to interview in a moment like this? It's new and fresh. As nice as press conferences are, you can't quite duplicate the emotions in the first few minutes after a big win. We were lucky to catch Steffen as he was still riding that wave. It's an interview you don't want to miss.