U.S. Jumping Team Takes Silver at Agria Jumping Nations Cup Falsterbo CSIO5*

The U.S. Jumping Team delivered a strong performance to secure a second-place finish at the Agria Jumping Nations Cup Falsterbo CSIO5* in Sweden, finishing just behind the host nation. The team ended the competition with a two-round total of eight faults, while Sweden took the win with just four faults. Ireland also posted eight faults but was edged out by the U.S. on time, placing third.

Led by Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland and Team Leader Lizzy Chesson, the U.S. team showed consistency and determination throughout the day.

“Karl and Spencer were brilliant today, both finishing with two clear rounds for the team,” said Ridland. “They rode pretty much perfect rounds, and their horses jumped super well. We’re on a roll right now and always aim for the podium. The consistency we’re seeing is a testament to the depth of talent.”

Spencer Smith (Wellington, Fla.) aboard Keeneland, a 2013 Zangersheide gelding owned by Ashland Farms, and Karl Cook (Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.) with Caracole de la Roque, a 2012 Selle Français mare owned by Signe Ostby, both turned in flawless performances across both rounds. Their efforts were among just six double clears in the entire class. Cook also recorded the fastest clear round of the day, clocking in at 70.44 seconds in round one.

Team anchor McLain Ward (Brewster, N.Y.) and High Star Hero, a 2013 Belgian Sport Horse gelding owned by Michael & Wendy Smith, added four faults in both rounds. Carly Anthony (Wellington, Fla.) aboard Heavenly W, a 2012 KWPN gelding owned by Portfolio Horses LLC, picked up four faults in the first round and eight in the second.

The Falsterbo competition continues through the weekend, culminating in the Rolex Grand Prix of Falsterbo CSIO5* on Sunday, July 13, at 2:00 p.m. local time (GMT+2) / 8:00 a.m. ET.