Luck of the Irish runs high in Dubai

Ireland’s Jessica Kurten stormed to victory producing four faultless rounds in the big international class of the day, the Masters. The winner-takes-all class, in which Jessica won $37,000 is limited to just 7 starters and this evening ran to its maximum four rounds in which the fourth round is a jump off against the clock.

Two others made it through to the final round jump-off, the world’s number one Marcus Ehning from Germany and Gerco Schroder (NED) but in the end Jessica proved what a class act she is by winning with a margin of over 3 seconds.

Nick Skelton, thought by many to be a hot favourite for the class was a surprise loss in the first round when he hit the very first fence. In the afternoon classes, the Arab League riders were showing their turn of foot with both classes being speed classes.

The Speed Stakes was won by Sydney Olympic Bronze Medallist Khaled Al Eid riding Spring G into first place in a time of 56.91. The second class of the afternoon The UAE Speed Stakes was won in fine style by Mohd Osama El Borai from Egypt riding Nirvana in a quick time of 41.49.

Of the show Jessica Kurten said “This sow is amazing and one of the most thrilling I have ever ridden at. All the riders have the utmost respect for the Maktoum family for running this show despite their tragic loss knowing its importance to Dubai.”

Event Nº 9 – The Masters
Table A

1º Castle Forbes Libertina / Jessica Kurten (Irl) / 0/0/0/0/0 – 24,32 S
2º Noble Savage H / Marcus Ehning (Ger) / 0/0/0/0/4 – 27,01
3º Eurocommerce Acapulco / Gerco Schröder (Ned) / 0/0/0/0/8- 28,91s
4º Firth Of Clyde / Christian Ahlmann (Ger)/ 0/0/4
5º Fort Neuville De Joter / Bernardo Alves (Bra) / 0 / 4
6º Russel / Nick Skelton (Gbr) / 4
6º Under Cover Agent / Francois Mathy Jr (Bel) / 4