Young British Showjumper Aids Team Europe Victory in Paris
British Show-jumper, Harry Charles, has claimed Gold with Team Europe, whilst competing at the Longines Masters of Paris.
The competition, which was launched last year, sees Team Europe and Team USA compete head to head. Consisting of five rounds, the Grand Prix course sets up a duel between one rider from each team. The winner takes the majority of the points for their team, which contribute to the final placings.
The following rounds consist of not only the need for skill, but also team strategy. The unique format see the losing team of the previous round being able to designate a rider to go up against their opponent until all competitors have ridden.
Charles was pitted against Team USA rider Lucas Porter. Despite Charles putting in an incredible performance, the USA rider took the lead. However, Team Europe managed to clinch the gold medal back as the team won and drew in the following rounds.
On Team Europe’s performance, Team Manager, Phillippe Guerdet explained;
It was a good battle this evening and I’m very proud of my team.”
“In the end everything worked out right. It was a good competition.”
At just 19-years of age, Charles posted the fastest time in competition, riding 11 year-old stallion, Victor, only losing out to winning his duel due to knocking 2 fences, adding 6 penalty seconds on his time.
The speedy performance comes as a surprise as Charles has only just begun competing on the FEI 5* Stage. Winning Team and Individual Gold at the Young Rider European Championships early this year though, many spectators are keen to watch the rider’s progression.
