It was the skill of Chilean rider Samuel Parot that garnered him the win of the feature event of the Split Rock Jumping Tour, the $130,000 CSI3* Grand Prix, presented by Split Rock Farm. With a large field of 45 riders, the technical and challenging course designed by Alan Wade of Ireland brought back only five riders for the jump-off. 

In the first round, Kevin Babington (IRE), past winner of the class, aboard his 10-year-old Hanoverian mare, Shorapur, laid down one of the only clears through sheer will of the horse and rider with one of the fastest times - earning him a spot in the jump-off in what would be a battle to put in another clear against Nick Novak (USA), Samuel Parot (CHI), Eugenio Garza (MEX) and Pablo Barrios (VEN). 

When Parot returned to the ring, he knew exactly what he was up against. With no other rider to put in a double clear over the 9 obstacle jump off course, Parot could go at a slower pace as long as he kept the rails up. Parot's mount, Atlantis, a 12-year-old Zangersheide gelding (Andiamo x Royal Bravour L), was responsive and careful under the accurate ride of Parot. The two having developed quite the partnership in the past year with multiple wins, Parot knew it was a bit of a gamble to try and steady the naturally quick horse in an attempt to put in the only clear round. His strategy paid off.

Taking home the blue was especially meaningful for Parot who had made an effort to make sure and be at the Split Rock Jumping Tour. "I very much enjoyed the show at Split Rock. Winning made it all the sweeter, especially against some very tough competition at a very top show," said Parot.

Source: Press release from Split Rock Jumping Tour // Picture © TPence Photo