St. Gallen, Switzerland – June 3, 2016 – The United States traveled to St. Gallen, Switzerland this week to tackle on the CSIO 5* Nations Cup as part of the observation events for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. Fans were on the edge of their seats as riders navigated the technical course and the continuous rainfall.
Lauren Hough and Ohlala proved to the field of competitors that the United States team is a strong contender by leading off with a clear round. Lucy Davis followed as the next American competitor, dropping one rail aboard Barron for four faults. Margie Engle and Royce entered the field third for the U.S., but ended with an unfortunate eight faults after knocking two rails. Anchoring the team for round one was Todd Minikus and Babalou. Unfortunately, the duo lowered the height of a single fence, locking in a score of eight faults for the team in round one.
Hough returned to the ring for round two without letting up, securing a double clear round for the team and earning herself the title of highest-ranking U.S. rider for the class. Following Hough’s lead, Davis overcame her round one fault by putting down a clear effort. Engle and Royce also improved in round two only lowering the height of once fence, while Minikus faced the pouring rain to finish his second round with four faults, as well. The U.S. team ended the day with a total of 12 faults, tying with Sweden, France and Germany for second place, just one-rail shy of the winning team from Ireland.
