Australian Team 2nd in Challenge Cup in Barcelona

A brilliant performance from our Jumping Team yesterday who took on some very strong nations to take out second place in the Challenge Cup - at the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Final in Barcelona overnight.

Chris Burton and 'Chedington Hazy Toulana' were the first out for Australia and had a great round with just one rail down. This set us up beautifully for the very experienced combination of Hilary Scott and 'Oaks Milky Way' to come in during the next wave and post a magnificent clear round. It all came down to the team anchor combination of Jamie Kermond and 'Yandoo Oaks Constellation' who demonstrated the fruits of their long-term partnership and significant experience to deliver another beautiful clear.

Following four waves of riders (3 for Australia) we had A two-way jump-off between Australia and the Netherlands for the top spot on the podium.

Chris Burton took to the arena once more with 'Chedington Hazy Toulana' and put in a masterfully quick round but unfortunately one rail down opened the door to the Netherlands who took the opportunity and posted a clear to take the win

We caught up with the team afterwards to hear their thoughts on the experience:

Chris Burton says, “We had an amazing experience at Barcelona. I couldn’t have wished for a better way to jump my first 5*, alongside a talented team and experienced Chef. The team spirit was high and the KFC was delicious

Hilary Scott said, “Tonight was such a great achievement for all of us personally on the team, but also for Australian Jumping. To come to the Nations Cup Final with only 3 team members and finish in 2nd place to the Netherlands, in the Challenge Cup was no mean feat. Thank you to my team members Jamie Kermond and Chris Burton for making this such an enjoyable week. Our team Chef, Stephen Lamb, who has been incredibly supportive in every situation; Denis Lynch for his constant guidance and expertise, especially in tonight’s class. Finally, a huge thank you to all our grooms, owners and support crew behind the scenes who put in so many hours and hard work - these certainly don’t go unnoticed. In particular Anna for her passion, dedication and professionalism. Very proud of my horse tonight, she jumped very well as did each of our horses. Extra special to have Alice, breeder of Milky and Napa, and my own mum here with us this weekend”.

Jamie Kermond says, "So proud of the team yesterday it was great fun being in the fight against the Dutch team. I really hope the Aus team can build from this and do as many Nations Cup shows as possible next year. Special shout out to my old mate 'Napa', he really gave me everything last night and he isn’t running out of jump in the later stage of his career.

Chef d'equipe Stephen Lamb said of the Team "We took inspiration from Ted Lasso and some nutritional support from KFC. We came down here with just 3 horses and riders on the team (most nations had 5) and made the most of the opportunity. While the result in the Challenge Cup was enormous, we would’ve preferred to be competing in Sundays final. That said, the overall learning experience for all us was priceless. Ending up in a jump-off against the Netherlands, competing under lights over Paris 2024 course designer Santiago Varela tracks was truly amazing. "To the riders, grooms, owners and of course, the horses themselves - THANK YOU.