Show Jumping: Meredith’s magical hat-trick

The first clear course of the second round in the World Cup finals in Las Vegas was performed by Swiss star Steve Guerdat riding Tresor.
The track for the final was insidious and testing, with the toughest section a oxer-oxer-vertical combination. Marcus Ehning on Leconte unfortunately comited two mistakes in the final section, in the double  and the on the table.The obstacle which caused the most problems was the last jump, a truly challenging oxer.
The first double zero of this fascinating final was executed by Ludger Beerbaum, riding Cuope de Couer. Rodrigo Pessoa and Rufus, from Brazil, also put on a great show for onlookers, but ended up making a mistake on the last obstacle.
The second double zero was recorded by Christina Lieber, and her steed LB No Mercy, and Abert Zoer fo Holland soon matched the feat on Oki Doki to make the event one of the closest finals in years. McLaine Ward on Sapphire added to the prestige with a wonderful second round and the fourth clear run.
However it was Meredith Michaels Beerbaum who once again soared to victory riding one of the most impressive horses in the last 50 years, Shutterfly, and the partnership took the top spot on the podium yet again with two perfect runs. The German rider showed nerves of steel, especially in the second round, and claimed her third World Cup win, a truly deserved achievement.
The final rankings are as follows:
1. Meredith Michaels Beerbaum/Shutterfly
2. McLaine Ward/Sapphire
3. Albert Zoer/Oki Doki
4. christina Lieber/LB No Mercy
5. Rodrigo Pessoa/Rufus