Trent McGee and Boucherom Return to Winner’s Circle in $25,000 Blenheim Fall Tournament Grand Prix
Trent McGee and Boucherom led the victory gallop at Blenheim EquiSports for the third time in six months on Saturday, September 17, this time after topping the $25,000 Blenheim Fall Tournament Grand Prix, presented by JB Horse Standards.
The winning duo were one of four entries from the 17-horse starting field to advance to jump off over the Marina Azevedo-designed short course. When McGee entered the Oaks International Grand Prix Field as the second to return, the time to beat had been set at 44.332 seconds by Kate Hovland and Cruz, but McGee and Boucherom made short work of that time. They shaved off nearly three seconds to stop the clock in 41.666 seconds, which would go untouched by the remaining two competitors.
With McGee capturing the victory, Hovland and her own Cruz finished in second, and third place with four faults in a time of 41.346 seconds went to Dakoda Mower and Icebreaker, owned by Rogue 3.
“[Boucherom] is absolutely amazing to work with, and it’s just an honor to ride such a quality mare with so much heart!” said McGee, of the 16-year-old Dutch Warmblood that he has had for three years – and that he rode to his first grand prix win this April. “I started in the 1.20m with her. She’s always had a lot of spirit, but this year, she’s become so consistent. We’ve really focused on developing a partnership, and she’s just got the most heart I’ve ever seen in a horse.”
McGee currently works as an assistant trainer for Archie Cox, after initially beginning to work for Cox at his Brookway Stables as a working student.
“Archie’s completely changed my career; he started me up as a young professional,” said McGee. “The team at Brookway Stables has been so supportive of my career and developing me as a rider in any ring. The work that we’ve done with Boucherom has been awesome. To find this consistency with her and to have such support from such a great team, it’s truly an honor to work with Archie and everyone there.”
With Saturday’s win under his belt, McGee now has his sights set on a bigger win: in next Saturday’s $50,000 1.50m Grand Prix.
“Jumping out here has been incredible; the courses this week were great,” said McGee. “Next week, we’re going to go for it again. We’re going to run it back next week!”
Read more:
Press Releases – Blenheim EquiSports (theplacetojump.com)
