Shepparton World Cup Class Win for Cadiz

There were 34 entries for the class today, and because there were so many entries in earlier classes, everything was running late. The first rider did not start much before 5.30, tensions were running high from the get-go, and the course was big. The water jump was reportedly the biggest in Australia, several jumps were maximum height and width, and the final line was a treble with two big wide oxers followed by a vertical, all on a slight incline. Not only that, but time was tight enough and there were time penalties being incurred from the start.

Cadiz was 18th out and there had been no clears. Tom McDermott and Clem Smith were both clear but with time. And Cadiz remained the only clear until the last when Clint Beresford produced a second clear with Jitterbug.

Twelve combinations went through to the second round, and a few four-faulters produced impeccable clear rounds, so the pressure was well and truly on. Brooke and Cadiz came in second last, and sailed around the course like they'd been doing this for years. Clear. Finally Clint and Jitterbug went round, but had an unlucky rail and Cadiz had won the class!!!!

Needless to say we are absolutely thrilled and very happy that this wonderful horse has clearly completely recovered from the mystery illness that plagued him while he was in Europe. This is only his second World Cup class, after Wodonga last weekend, and he has stepped up to the task with ease. His rider may also have had something to do with this success. Great work Brooke. You're a halfway decent jockey.

(When viewing the photos, it may appear that the photographer started to get a bit shaky in the second round, but really it was just that the light was failing. There are more photos in the Cadiz file in the Gallery.)