The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping dream is still alive for McLain Ward, after winning the second leg at the Dutch Masters with HH Azur today.
McLain Ward and HH Azur on their victory lap at the Dutch Masters. (Photo Rolex Grand Slam/Thomas Lovelock)
There were 16 riders in the jump-off from a starting field of 35 over Louis Konickx’s course in the Brabanthallen, including world champion Henrik von Eckermann of Sweden on King Edward. But none could cover the ground faster than McLain, winner of the first leg in Geneva last September, on the mare who carried him to the FEI World Cup title six years ago in Omaha.
Henrik set quite a pace in 38.52 seconds, but was overtaken by Frenchman Julien Epaillard on Donatello d’Aug, who was 0.46 seconds faster. McLain was better in 37.86 seconds to remain “alive” in the race for the Grand Slam title.
Discussing his victory in the 1 million Euro class, McLain conceded “it was lot of stress, having to watch the remaining 12 riders in the jump-off. The level here so high, and I think later tonight I will realize what we have achieved. The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping has truly raised the bar of the sport and winning a Major is one of the greatest moments in a rider’s career. I am so proud of my team and my horse –- and a little proud of myself.”
He added about the 17-year-old mare, “She is smarter than everybody else and is truly a queen. I think she understands what is happening and really rises to the moment. She loves her job and the partnership that we have created is truly so special. We will now aim her for CHIO Aachen to try and win the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.”
McLain emphasized, “It’s a great goal to aspire to.The challenge of the game is what gets you out of bed every day and it drives you, and at this point in my career, i realize that’s the most important part of it.”