Out of 20 entries in the 1.50m Classic, five went clear over a course designed by Eric Hasbrouck (USA), and three of those were double clear. Taking the win in a time of 36.676 seconds was Todd Minikus (USA) on Carlo, a 2006 Holsteiner gelding by Casall x Landlord owned by North Face Farm.

“You have to add a little gumption to him,” described Minikus. “Usually a horse that you push is always faster than a horse that you have to pull. You have to push him the whole way, so that’s good.”

Despite being the first week of circuit, Minikus said that the class “looked big.” However, he stated, “The fact of the matter is, I think this is some of the hardest jumping in the world really. We start right off here. You’ve got to have quality horses. They’ve got to be on the top of their game, and you’ve got to be on the top of your game no matter what class it is here. That’s just life in South Florida.”

Michael Desiderio (USA) & Aminka (Ephebe For Ever x Heartbreaker) took second place with a double clear, registering 37.351 seconds at the end of their decisive run.

Emily Moffitt (GBR) & It’s Real Love van de Smis Z (Indoctro x Liberato) were the only other combination with two clean efforts, going through the timers in 38.312 seconds.

Todd Minikus (USA) & Carlo

Source: Press Release by Jennifer Wood Media, Inc. for ESP / WEF

Photos: © Sportfot