Rob Bevis wins the opening leg of the International Stairway on Chablis ET
Friday 20 May 2016
The opening leg of the International Stairway took place today at Devon County Show this afternoon and it was Rob Bevis that took the title with Kate Mustill’s 8 year-old bay gelding Chablis ET.
One of only three clears in the first round, Rob delivered a clear in the jump-off within the fastest time of 45.39 seconds to claim both the lion share of the prize fund and the maximum league points that are on offer. Helen Tredwell with her fathers Larksong came 2nd having produced the only other double clear of the competition in a time of 46.33 seconds.
Nigel Coupe and Golvers Hill owned by Sue Simmons, last years league winners, were the third combination that posted a first round clear however two down in the jump off within a time of 43.80 seconds saw them slide into 5th place whilst Sammie-Jo Coffin and Williem de Lux moved up into 4th despite having picked up 4 penalties in both rounds due to her faster jump-off time of 40.75 seconds.
Alfie Bradstock and KBIS Caicos owned by Graham Fletcher picked up 4th place with a combined score of 8 penalties when a fence was lowered in each round. Their jump off time of 43.33 seconds was also enough to move them up the line ahead of Nigel.
Talking after the presentation Rob Bevis commented “He’s only an 8 year-old and I’ve had him for about four months. I’m really pleased with him today as I thought I’d jump him for the experience and he has come out and jumped a double clear. He’s just proven himself as a great prospect for the future and I’m really happy with him”.
The International Stairway takes place across a number of county shows where winning combinations accrue League Points that count towards the Final which takes place at the British Showjumping National Championships in August at Stoneleigh Park. The series culminates with a high profile championships where three Horse of the Year Show International Wild Cards are allocated as well as it being where the sports National Champion is crowned.
