One thing is for sure: Nothing can be predicted in the sport of jumping, and at the Longines FEI World Cup Final in Paris this has been no exception. After a disappointing opening round with Zinius, world no. two Harrie Smolders bounced back yesterday to finish 2nd with the amazing Emerald after two clear rounds climbing up the overall standings to sit 7th ahead of Sunday. All photos (c) Jenny Abrahamsson.
Carlos Lopez's Admara was sky-high behind yesterday, which caused quite a few questions on the press conference after the class. FEI's John Roche answered: "A decision has been taken by the FEI to get rid of hind boots, for ever, that enhance performance. It is over a period of time, and there is a reason for that. It's got to do with qualification systems for the Olympic Games and whatever, and so that we have created a situation where all riders compete under fair and equal conditions. But having seen the horse participate this evening, one could definitely consider that this was totally exaggerated and it is for sure something we will take up with this particular rider."