Rowan Willis and Blue Movie in the final round

© Michelle Terlato

Australian showjumper Rowan Willis has produced an outstanding performance at Spruce Meadows in Canada, finishing runner-up with super mare Blue Movie in the Rolex International Grand Prix CSIO5*!

Rowan and “Carrots”, with whom he was very successful at last year’s World Equestrian Games, produced one of just eight clears (from 44 combinations) in the first round. In the second round, they had just one rail down; two other combinations matched this, although received time penalties and thus finished behind Rowan. In the end, it was Beezie Madden who managed to go one better, jumping clear and accruing just one time penalty.

It was a fantastic effort by Rowan, as the Rolex Grand Prix “Masters” at Spruce Meadows is one of the most prestigious events in the world. It is part of the Rolex Grand Prix of Showjumping, which also includes the Grand Prix classes at CHIO Aachen, CHI Geneva, and The Dutch Masters. The Grand Prix at Spruce Meadows has a total prize pool of $3 million ($AUD 3.3 million), with $1 million ($AUD1.1 million) to the winner and $600k ($AUD665k) to the runner up, as well as prizemoney down to 12th place.

“What a day! My girl, my horse of a life time, never ceases to amaze me with her talent and heart. Thank you Carrots for being an incredible partner. There are numerous others to thank that have been with us throughout the journey. Thank you Robert Buniokski for your endless dedication to Carrot’s health. Also a big thank you to Karen Wellings and Renee Willis for all your support! This has been an incredible journey, and I love sharing the ups and downs with my team, family, friends, and supporters,” said Rowan via Facebook.

Congratulations Rowan and Carrots!

Click here to view the official results.

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