Sara Kozumplik Jumps to the Lead in The Event at TerraNova CCI4*-S After Show Jumping
Sara Kozumplik (USA) and Rubens D’ysieux (Balougran x Orenda D’ysieux) moved into first in The Event at TerraNova CCI4*-S after show jumping to head into Sunday’s cross country on a 35.7. William Robertson’s show jumping course proved influential on day two of the eventing competition.
Rubens D’ysieux, a 17-year-old Selle Francais gelding owned by Kim Small, has been Kozumplik’s partner for many years. “He’s very secure in his soul. He’s an exceptional horse and in many ways, he’s very smart. He’s gifted, he is kind and he’s lovely to have around but doesn’t need anyone to tell him he’s good. He’s already quite aware,” Kozumplik said.
The Event at TerraNova CCI4*-S runs cross-country on the third day, which is typical for short format events, giving the riders plenty of time to walk Capt. Mark Phillip’s CCI4*-S track. “I walk the course; then I like to have a little quiet time to think about those things. I don’t do a ton of jumping in the cross-country warmup. I’m on good horses and they’re prepared,” Kozumplik said. “One line that I heard a long time ago that I really love, and I think applies to all disciplines, is ‘if you didn’t bring it to the horse show, you’re not gonna find it here.'”
Mary Bess Davis (USA) with her own Imperio Magic (Cassander x Khadija Des Hayettes), a 2014 Warmblood gelding, launched into second from seventh place with the only clear round in the CCI4*-S. They head into cross-country day on their dressage score of 36.7. Davis and Imperio Magic have been together since their first Open Beginner Novice in January 2020 at a Stable View Opener Horse Trial. While this is Davis’s second four-star with Imperio Magic, she previously produced four horses to the four-star level about 12 years ago.
“I had two kids and took a break. And so, coming into this weekend, it was all about just doing the best we can do at this moment and trying to put together three strong disciplines. It’s all a gift to me [and so much fun] to be back at this level that I go in very excited, but also relaxed because I’m happy to be back here and I’m on such an incredible horse,” Davis said.
This is Davis’s first time experiencing and competing at TerraNova. “[TerraNova] is amazing- the facility, the footing, the buildings, the barn, everything is very competitor friendly. They go above and beyond. It’s been a great experience,” Davis said.
The new VIP Pavilion at TerraNova Equestrian Center spans two arenas during this FEI dual-event hosted week, including both The Event at TerraNova CCI4*S and TerraNova Dressage CDI4*/CDI-W. Spectators enjoyed excellent viewing while creating atmosphere for the competitors and their horses.
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