The 2022 Spruce Meadows 'Masters' is Underway
September 07, 2022
Matthew Sampson (GBR) & Elisa BJX win the 2022 TELUS Cup 1.45m
© Spruce Meadows Media/Mike Sturk
The Spruce Meadows 'Masters' is Underway!
Spruce Meadows (September 7, 2022) - The first day of the Spruce Meadows 'Masters' Tournament was underway early this morning with the TELUS Cup 1.45m. Twenty-two horse rider combinations were ready to step onto the International Ring to kick off the 2022 Spruce Meadows 'Masters'. The 435m track was designed by FEI Course Designer Anthony d'Ambrosio (USA) and athletes had to complete 11 obstacles (13 efforts) in under a time of 70 seconds to qualify for the jump off. Nine horse/rider combinations passed all the test and advanced to the jump off. Matthew Sampson (GBR) riding Elisa BJX galloped across the finish in a time of 40.27s which could not be caught.
Conor Swail (IRL) & Clear Concept win the 2022 Kubota Cup 1.40m © Spruce Meadows Media/Mike Sturk
The Kubota Cup 1.40m was the second competition of the day on the International Ring. This one round competition was against the clock, athletes with the lowest faults and fastest time would get the opportunity to step into the winner's circle. The number 4 top ranked rider in the world, Conor Swail (IRL), riding Clear Concept could not be beat. The duo posted a clear ride in a time of 63.73s to take top spot.
Brian Morton (CAN) & Firefly W win the Cardel Homes 1.30m© Spruce Meadows Media/Mike Sturk
Today's final competition was the Cardel Homes Jumper 1.30m. Athletes representing 5 nations road through the iconic clock tower looking to post the fast clear ride of the event. Canadian and Team Spruce Meadows rider, Brian Morton, aboard his newly acquired (end of the 2021) mount, Firefly W, left it all on the line. The pair sailed through the finish line in a time of 66.47s and could not be caught. Morton also finished 6th on his second mount, Ice Man Du Houssoit.
It Has Begun
The Spruce Meadows 'Masters' has something for everyone. In addition to top international show jumping, spectators and fans alike are able to enjoy shopping over 70 vendors and original fine art, equine inspired demonstrations, FireFit Championships, live music, entertainment and pageantry throughout the week*. The grounds have been decorated to the nines with classic cars and carriages, fresh cut flowers from Holland and photo op spaces for all those Instagram worthy moments.
Tonnes of fresh flowers from Holland have arrived and will be displayed throughout the grounds during the week© Spruce Meadows Media/Mike Sturk
The Horizon's Pavilion will host a Gin Bar surrounded by artists and their original fine art while the Equi-Plex will feature a unique shopping experience and the Skyline Lounge - both locations will be open daily throughout the 'Masters'. A number of demonstrations will be taking place throughout the week including dressage demonstrations by Canadian Dressage CDI winners Ryan Torkkeli and Pia Fortmuller and vaulting demonstrations by Diamond Willow Vaulting Club.
On Friday, September 9 the Equi-Plex will also be home to the wildly popular BMO Nations' Cup Team Autograph Session from 1:30pm-2:30pm. It’s a special time for the fans to meet the stars of the sport.
CVI athlete Brooke Boyd puts on a vaulting demonstration in the Riding Hall © Spruce Meadows Media/Ashley Jimenez
Visit the WestJet International Plaza and celebrate ATCO's 75th Anniversary in their ATCO pavilion stocked with family friendly activities including the Winds of Time Booth. You'll find the TELUS Pavilion right next door where a donation to the Future is Friendly Foundation will get you this year's TELUS Pony (stuffed animal).
Original Fine Art can be found in the Horizon's Pavilion© Spruce Meadows Media/Tony Lewis
Up in the Founders Plaza you'll find more shopping and the Rolex Grand Slam Experience Booth. Check out historic memorabilia from Grand Slam Grand Prix winners, ride the CP 'International', presented by Rolex using virtual reality or jump into the photo booth and make your own "Grand Slam" moment. Don't miss out on this year's Spruce Meadows 'Masters' - for more information and to get tickets visit www.sprucemeadows.com.
