The home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum opened its doors on Thursday, to kick off the debut of the Longines Masters of New York, one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world. Drawing some of the world's top riders for four days of elite showjumping competition, the Longines Masters of New York is the grand finale of Season III of the international Longines Masters Series, which takes place in Paris, Hong Kong, and now New York.

"Today marks a milestone for the Longines Masters Series as we celebrate our new home for the American leg of the series, the Longines Masters of New York," said Christophe Ameeuw, CEO of EEM and Founder of the Longines Masters Series. "Already on the first day of the event, we have seen some incredible riding and know that the next three days will continue to bring show-stopping performances. We also witnessed the official team announcements and draw for the Riders Masters Cup teams, setting the stage for Riders USA to seek redemption against Riders Europe and claim victory on their home soil." 

With three Olympic medals to his name, 2017 World Cup champion McLain Ward (USA) proved why he is at the top of the sport at the Longines Masters of New York. Forty-four starters attempted to be the fastest over the speed course set for the Masters One Vestrum-Italy 1.45m, but it wasn't until the penultimate entry of Ward and HH Callas (Albatros x Quattro B) that the winner was revealed. With a time of 58.62 seconds, Ward shot to the top of the leader board with the 11-year-old Oldenburg mare owned by Double H Farm, claiming victory over Olivier Philippaerts (BEL). It was serious business for the 24-year-old Belgian, who guided Goofy van’t Laerhof (Kashmir van Schuttershof x Lord Z), owned by his father, four-time Olympian Ludo Philippaerts, to the runner-up position in 60.12 seconds.  Making it a true international podium, Amanda Derbyshire (GBR) and Cornwall BH (Con Air x Cambridge) took third in 61.82 seconds.

"It is an exciting new event and a great arena; I really hope it grows into something very special," said Ward, who is able to commute to the inaugural Longines Masters of New York from his home in nearby Brewster, NY. "Callas is here to compete and she's aiming for the Longines Speed Challenge class on Friday night. She's a seasoned, quick horse. She can do it all!"