Lexington, Ky.—Sept. 25
Tim McQuay of the United States rode Hollywoodtinseltown, David Silva’s palomino Quarter Horse (Hollywood Dun It—Hollywood Jac 86), into first place during the first section of reining team competition at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games with a score of 220.50.
Anky van Grunsven of the Netherlands also completed her first ride today on Arthur Beack’s Whizashiningwalla BB and stands fifth on 211.00. Van Grunsven, an Olympic and World Equestrian individual medalist in dressage, took over the fourth Dutch team spot after Jurgen Pouls had to step down.
“I’m a bit more nervous because I feel I’m not ready for this,” said van Grunsven after her ride. “But I had my personal best. I know I’m definitely not the best here, but this was my best ride so far. Give me another year!
“Yesterday I thought, ‘Should I have a safe round or just go?’ And my coach said, ‘Just go. Who cares? You’re not going to win anyways. It’s either going to be good or it’s going to be shit. Just take the risk.’ So I thought, ‘OK, let’s give it a try.’ I know it’ll be much better than this but, for me, I’m very happy that I was here and did the Equestrian Games in reining. It’s a new challenge,” she added.
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Listen to van Grunsven’s interview.
German reiner Nico Hörmann retired his horse during his ride. Mister Dual Spring slipped and fell during a spin.
Three sections of reining remain for the team competition.
