Samsung Nations Cup Update

Twelve nations participated in the Belgium fixture of the Samung Nations Cup Series. Only the six best nations are allowed to the second round of an FEI Nations Cup, and the following nations did not return: Portugal (59), Mexico (45), Germany (35), Switzerland (20), Austria (20) and the USA (17).

Belgium Chef d’Equipe Lucien Somers had predicted victory for the home team, just like in 2004. The Belgians however finished second behind Great Britain.

Great Britain won the competition only 3 points ahead of the home team. The legendary John Whitaker (Hugo du Heup) was delighted: “this is the first time my son Robert and I are together in the same team and winning.” The British team finished with an overall score of 17 penalty points. Robert Whitaker rode a 4 + 4 on Ublesco, Jams Davenport (Florie du Moulin) scored 5 + 4, John Whitaker (Hugo du Heup) collected 5 + 9 penalty points. Italy, relegated from the Samsung Super League last year, had to settle for 3rd place, which was nevertheless a worthy outing for Italy to reach the 3rd position in the standings of the Samsung Nations Cup Series, which is still led by Sweden on 18 points ahead of Norway (15).

New comer Belgian Gregory Wathelet (Mozart des Hayettes) delivered a double clear in front of his home crowd. An achievement equalled only by British rider Scott Smith (Cabri d’Elle). “A fully-fledged young reinforcement for the team”, concluded a delighted Somers: “it’s still too early for the Europeans; I don’t want to burn him out. He’ll get his chances soon enough!” In the first round, Ludo Philippaerts had to stop prematurely after a heavy fall at the water jump, when his horse Chatman lost a shoe. ”I was lucky, really, all I have is a mild headache, and even Chatman has got over the shock”, said the unlucky rider. That didn’t prevent Philippaerts from riding in the second round to finish with 9 penalty points.

The continuous rain was a source of concern for the organisers. Fortunately the grass roots proved solid enough and proved the worthiness of the investments of the Organising Committee in the 6 ha showground over the last few years. The morning competition however had to be cancelled to preserve the ground for the Nations Cup. A sporting gesture made in consultation with the chef d’equipes.