Press release from Spruce Meadows, edited by World of Showjumping

The RBC Grand Prix of Canada, presented by Rolex, took centre stage on Saturday during the 'National' Tournament at Spruce Meadows, welcoming 31 horse/rider combinations from around the world to the iconic International Ring.

Designed by FEI Course Designer Olaf Petersen Jr., the challenging 570-metre first-round track featured 14 obstacles (17 efforts) and a time allowed of 86s. Only six combinations representing six different nations successfully navigated the course without fault to advance to the jump-off.

Making an immediate impact in his first-ever visit to Spruce Meadows, Mark Bluman (COL) rose to the occasion aboard Landon de Nyze (Comilfo Plus Z x Quadrillo), delivering one of only two double-clear performances of the day. The pair stopped the clock in 44.44s to secure victory in the prestigious RBC Grand Prix of Canada, presented by Rolex.

Jos Verlooy (BEL) and Nixon Van’t Meulenhof (Denzel vt Meulenhof x Carthago) also produced a fault-free jump-off effort, finishing second in 49.02 seconds.

Rounding out the podium was Daniel Coyle (IRL) and Farrel (Cardento x Stakkato), whose blistering jump-off time of 41.99 seconds proved the fastest of the afternoon. A single rail down left the pair on four faults, earning third place despite their impressive speed.

For Bluman, the victory marked a memorable debut at Spruce Meadows, adding his name to the list of international riders who have conquered one of show jumping's most respected venues. The Colombian rider leaves the 'National' Tournament with a landmark victory and a performance that will be remembered for years to come.

“I think everybody in this sport needs a little bit of luck. It's a lot of things that need to come together in order to be able to do the sport at a high level. Starting from grooms, farriers, vets, owners, trainers and thankfully I count with a very big team behind me,” Mark Bluman said on what it takes to succeed at the highest level.