Calgary, Alberta, Canada – September 06, 2019 – Known to some as “high jump for horses” the $100,000 ATCO Electric Six Bar lit up the International Ring for the WestJet Evening of the Horse. The spot lights were bright as 11 horse/rider combinations took on the line of six fences seeing just how high they could go. The height record of the ATCO Electric Six Bar was set in 2004 by Jessica Kurten (IRL) and Castle Forbes Libertina who jumped the final fence set at the height of 2.12m.

Max Kuhner (AUT) & Chardonnay 79

After the first two rounds of competition and a final fence height of 1.75m, eight riders remained. Round three (now over only four of the six fences) had a final fence height of 1.85m and only six riders jumped clear. Among those still clear was last year’s winner (tied) Holger Wulschner (GER). Unfortunately it was not to be, the fourth round claimed four more riders unable to clear a final fence height of 1.95m.

Piergiorgio Bucci (ITA) & Driandria

Max Kuhner (AUT) and Piergiorgio Bucci (ITA) both cleared the final fence in round four to tie for first place.

Winner’s Circle:

“They (the fans) understand the sport and they make the right noise at all the right moments. It’s very nice (feeling) and makes us go that much harder” – Piergiorgio Bucci (ITA) on the atmosphere fans bring to Spruce Meadows.

For full results, please click here.

Source: Press release from Spruce Meadows Media

Photos: © Spruce Meadows Media / Mike Sturk