The new U.S. Open of Eventing Final is ongoing at the Morven Park International Equestrian Center in Virginia, the week before the Maryland 5-star and two weeks before the Pau, France, 5-star. Next month, there’s the 4-star Long at TerraNova near Sarasota, Fla. Seems like overload, though the U.S. Open’s $200,000 in prize money was able to draw a field of 30.
Leading the way after two days of dressage is Will Coleman ‘s veteran Off the Record, on top of the 4-star Long Open with 25.1 penalties. However, that’s a mere 0.1 penalties ahead of Sharon White and Claus 63. Meanwhile, that combo is just 0.8 in front of Boyd Martin and Liz Halliday’s former ride, Miks Master C.
Sharon White and Claus 63. (Erin Gilmore Photo)
Discussing his longtime partner, Will said, “He’s a star…professional as they come. He knows the job and he really was just excellent for me today. I’m so appreciative of him.”
Looking ahead to Saturday’s cross-country designed by Derek di Grazia, he said “It’s a stiff enough course.”
While noting that Timmy, as his mount is known, “is not the most gifted galloper, he has a good engine and I’m hoping if I’m hyper-efficient, I can get around clean and then maybe get close to the (optimum) time.”
Boyd Martin and Miks Master C. (Erin Gilmore Photo)
Click here for Open results and to find out what’s happening in the other divisions at the Morven Park International and Fall Horse Trials.
