Photos and Story by Alan Fabricant
On a clear Saturday evening on February 24th, 39 pairs of riders and horses took to the main stadium field at Wellington Internation for the “Saturday Night Lights” $385,000 Lugano Diamonds CSI5* Grand Prix.
In front of a full house with standing room only, just four went through the first round clear (within the time limit and no knockdowns).
During the jump-off all four went clear.
Richard Vogel of Germany riding United Touch S had the fastest times in both rounds, captured first place and received $127,050 for his efforts.
Riding Callas was McLain Ward of the USA came in a close second and went home with a check for $77,000.
Shane Sweetnam from Ireland aboard James Kahn Cruz finished in third place and a check for $57,750.