It was almost a foregone conclusion that Michael Jung would win the Rolex Kentucky CCI****, and while his masterful riding on fischerRocana FST was inspiring to watch, so were all of the riders fighting for a finish at the toughest event in the United States.
As reporters for the Chronicle, we were just as much in awe of Jung’s performances as the crowds, but there were also lots of other touching and inspiring moments from the weekend. Only one rider wins Rolex Kentucky each year, but every rider there travels home with stories to tell. Here are a few of our favorite stories and moments from the week:
That feeling! Elisa Wallace celebrated her cross-country round aboard Simply Priceless with a huge smile. Photo by Ann Glavan
“Roxie” enjoyed her moment in the spotlight, gazing at the crowd cheering for her. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.
Mark Todd gave a lesson in riding across country in tough conditions aboard NZB Campino, ultimately finishing seventh. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.
Tim Bourke, Ryan Wood and Lillian Heard watched the top 10 show jump. Both Heard and Wood rode three horses each. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.
Maya Black had the ride of her life over the weekend, finishing third aboard the tiny but mighty Doesn’t Play Fair. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.
Nobody was smiling brighter than Laine Ashker, who rode the 17-year-old Anthony Patch to 19th place. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.
ADVERTISEMENT
Katherine Coleman was a bit overcome after her cross-country round on Courage Under Fire, though she had to withdraw before the show jumping. Photo by Ann Glavan
Jung showed grit and determination as he rode Roxie through the Head of the Lake. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.
Barbara Crabo and Eveready flew over the Keeper’s Brush. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.
Kurt Martin celebrated his birthday weekend with his first four-star completion aboard Delux Z. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.
Xanthus III surveyed the crowd with Blyth Tait. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.
Allie Knowles and Sound Prospect rode through the worst of the rain on Sunday. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.
