It usually takes a stride or two, but there’s a defining moment when a rider lands off the last jump of a course and realizes all the rails are still in their cups. That moment is when it all happens—an exuberant explosion of joy. The crowd exhales their collective breath and the rider unleashes a flurry of celebratory gestures—pats, fist-pumps and hugs. We at the Chronicle have put together 10 of our favorite moments of victory from those we’ve captured over the years. Enjoy!

Karen O’Connor celebrated with a fist pump after jumping clear with Mr. Medicott at the 2012 Olympic Games in London. (Photo by Kat Netzler.) 

Show jumper Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum also opted for the fist pump, but sans crop, with Bella Donna at the 2012 London Olympics. (Photo by Kat Netzler.)

Hawley Bennett-Awad let her love for Gin & Juice shine at the Rolex Kentucky CCI****. (Photo by Kat Netzler.)  

Despite the rain, Tiffany Foster’s pleasure over jumping clear with Verdi III at the Spruce Meadows Masters was evident in her smile. (Photo by Mollie Bailey.) 

Vittoria Panizzon was delighted with Borough Pennyz at the 2012 London Olympic Games, though Borough Pennyz didn’t look quite as thrilled. (Photo by Kat Netzler.) 

A quieter moment of celebration and appreciation: Eric Lamaze and the late Hickstead at the 2011 Spruce Meadows Masters. (Photo by Molly Sorge.) 

Mary King’s almost never spotted without a grin, and it was no different after show jumping Imperial Cavalier at the 2012 London Olympic Games. (Photo by Kat Netzler.) 

Peter Charles charged full-speed ahead after jumping clear with Vindicat at the 2012 London Olympic Games. (Photo by Kat Netzler.) 

Maikel Van Der Vleuten looked thankful for Verdi at the 2012 London Olympic Games. (Photo by Kat Netzler.) 

Eventer Aiofe Clark couldn’t contain her elation after jumping Master Crusoe at the 2012 London Olympic Games. (Photo by Kat Netzler.)