McDermott wins Greater Sydney Grand Prix

Tom McDermott & Romantic Dream

Photograph:Nicol Taylor

The Grand Prix capped off three full days of jumping action which was attended by Australia’s top jumping horse and rider combinations. 

McDermott and his Australian Show Jumping Champion mount CP Romantic Dream were the only combination to produce two clear rounds on the Brad Longhurst designed course.

It was the mare’s first outing for the weekend.

“We’ve been trying to keep her fresh for this event, she hasn’t come back on song since our trip to New Zealand but she’s sure back now,” McDermott said.

Jamie Kermond and ASB Colthaga and Hilary Scott and Oaks Miss Scarlet were the only other combinations to produce clear opening rounds but Scott had a refusal in the second which relegated her to seventh overall.

Kermond and his mare also knocked a rail which saw them slot into second.

“We’ve been working hard to get this horse back to her best, I’ve been riding her a little differently and I’m getting used to that and she’s getting used to me.

“Well done to Tom, he’s a great rider and a great competitor,” Kermond.

Sharon Slater and CP Ulixes jumped a clear second round but four jumping penalties in the opening round saw them finish the event in third.