New York, New York, USA – September 25, 2022 – Shane Breen (IRL) and Haya were the only pair to break the 60-second mark over the one-round speed class for victory in the 1.45m CSI 5*, the first of two final five-star classes on Sunday, September 25, 2022.
“She was fantastic in there,” said Breen of the 10-year-old Royal Dutch Sport Horse / Dutch Warmblood (KWPN) mare (Mylord Cathargo x For Pleasure), owned by Breen Equestrian Ltd. and Old Lodge. “She’s been wonderful all season. We’ve many times been the bridesmaid, so today she was the bride and I’m thrilled. The plan is to build her up for the grand prix, and step by step, we’re getting there. Next year she’s going to be a big name for me.”
While Breen had a plan for his course, he did make one adjustment. “I saw that they were doing seven strides quite easy to the last jump, so I thought if I kept up on the lefthand side, I could do six strides,” he explained. “I chanced it, and it came off for me. I think that’s where I clinched it.”
Of the New York site on Governors Island, Breen said, “All of the LGCT venues are incredible, but this is one of the iconic ones. It’s an honor to be here and ride.”
Second place was claimed Darragh Kenny (IRL) and Chic Chic, an 11-year-old Westphalian stallion (Comme Il Faut 5 x Contendro I) owned by Vlock Show Stables LLC, who finished clear in 60.33 seconds.
With a time of 61.33 seconds, Max Kühner (AUT) and Vancouver Dreams, his own 12-year-old Hanoverian mare (Valentino 240 x Stakkato), finished third.
Final Results – €25,500 LGCT Speed Challenge CSI 5*
1) Shane Breen (IRL) & Haya – 0 – 59.78
2) Darragh Kenny (IRL) & Chic Chic – 0 – 60.33
3) Max Kuhner (AUT) & Vancouver Dreams – 0 – 61.33
Source: Press Release from LGCT – Longines Global Champions Tour
Photo: © LGCT / Stefano Grasso
Categories: CSI 5*, English, Global Champions Tour, Jumper News Ireland
