Brazil’s Stephan de Freitas Barcha Claims Pan American Games Gold in Thrilling Jumping Final

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08/11/2023

A Dream Come True: De Freitas Barcha’s Gold-Medal Victory

In a captivating turn of events, Brazil’s Stephan de Freitas Barcha rose from third place to claim the gold in the Individual Jumping medal-decider at the Pan American Games 2023 in Quillota, Chile. With a remarkable performance from his mare Chevaux Primavera Imperio Egipcio, the 34-year-old rider showcased incredible poise to secure the coveted gold medal.

Unpredictable Competition Tests Riders’ Skills

The competition on this day proved to be both challenging and unpredictable. Among the field of 28 starters, only four clear rounds were posted. Many of the medal favorites faltered over Marina Azevedo’s demanding courses. What initially seemed to be the key to success, with several faultless performances, took an unexpected turn as the top-ten riders encountered difficulties.

Lying in eighth place, Kent Farrington, riding his 10-year-old gelding Landon, encountered a setback when his horse put a toe in the open water at fence eight. Mexico’s Eugenio Garza Perez came agonizingly close to a perfect round but incurred a heartbreaking fault at the final fence. With only three riders left to run, de Freitas Barcha maintained a clean record, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion.

Kent Farrington’s Silver Medal: A Battle from the Back of the Pack

Farrington’s tenacity shone through as he battled from the back of the pack to secure the silver medal. Riding an inexperienced horse at this level, he demonstrated a remarkable improvement throughout the week, ultimately thrilled with the results. Farrington emphasized the real test the competition presented, highlighting how the PanAm Games had evolved in the sport of equestrian jumping. He was particularly impressed with his horse, Landon, expressing his belief in the horse’s growing potential.

McLain Ward: A Fighter in Contagious

McLain Ward was elated with the result: “He’s a lion; he’s a fighter,” he said of his longtime partner Contagious, who carried him to the bronze medal. Ward also acknowledged the evolving nature of the Pan American Games, emphasizing the need for continued hard work and preparation to compete against the world’s best at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

A Dream Realized for De Freitas Barcha

“To win this kind of Championship in South America is a dream come true!”, said an emotional de Freitas Barcha. The gold medal represents a significant achievement for the Brazilian rider, and he expressed his gratitude to all those who supported him on his journey. The victory holds a special meaning as it is dedicated to two influential individuals in his life, a teacher he had since the age of 15 and a close friend who passed away earlier in the year.

Bright Future: De Freitas Barcha Sets Sights on Paris 2024 Olympics

As the new champion reflected on his gold medal, he expressed the profound meaning behind his victory. Stephan de Freitas Barcha’s journey in equestrian sports began 25 years ago in Rio de Janeiro. He dedicated this win to two influential figures in his life, a beloved teacher and a close friend who passed away earlier in the year. De Freitas Barcha looked ahead to the future, setting his sights on the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he hopes to be part of the strong Brazilian team vying for medals.

With such a dramatic and unpredictable final, the Pan American Games continue to be a stage for incredible equestrian talent, pushing riders to their limits. The compelling performances of riders like Kent Farrington, McLain Ward, and Stephan de Freitas Barcha remind us of the enduring spirit and commitment required in the world of equestrian jumping.

V. Sozzi

08/11/2023

By Redazione HSJ

Jumping