Sam Stars for Kiwis in Abu Dhabi

Samantha McIntosh’s superb run continues, with a fourth and a seventh overnight at the CSIO5* in Abu Dhabi.

“I am extremely happy with my horses today,” said McIntosh. “Both were stars.” Estina placed fourth in the 1.45m speed class, with Check In 2 seventh in the 1.60m President Cup Grand Prix. “Today’s Grand Prix was big and tough.”

Thirty-seven started the class with 12 coming back for the second round. McIntosh and Check In had a rail in their 46.44-second round. Ramzy Al Duhami (KSA) and Ted took the honours going double clear in 43.7 seconds.

Daniel Meech and Fine had a rail in the opening round, which threw the horse’s concentration and Meech opted to make a circle, with Saturday’s Nations Cup in mind.

In the 1.45m speed class, Estina and McIntosh came home clear in 57.72 seconds. Emanuele Gaudiano (ITA) and Carlotta headed home the 45-strong field with their 52.81-second effort – comfortably ahead of his second-placed countrywoman Luca Maria Moneta (ITA) on Neptune Brecourt with her 56.54-second time.

Richard Gardner was much happier with Calisto today. The combination had a rail down in the 1.45m, but he’s confident things are now “back on track”.

Bruce Goodin and Backatorps Danny V also had a rail, but the new combination continues to improve each outing.

Meech and Sitia-Blue were chasing the top times, but had a couple of green mistakes towards the end of the course to finish with eight faults.

McIntosh had plenty of praise for her team mates. “There were some positive rounds from the team horses today, so we are all looking forwards to getting into the ring on Saturday (for the Nations Cup competition). It’s been very hot here so it will be good to have a quiet day tomorrow.”

She also appreciated the support and messages from New Zealand.

Friday is a rest day for the team, with Saturday’s Nations Cup the big goal.

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Time Table:

The horse details:

By Diana Dobson – HP Media Liaison