The World Equestrian Center in Ocala was pleasant, along with the presence of luminaries at the Lugano Diamonds Grand Prix this evening. The event was the second round of the Longines League of Nations Series. As per the estimate, USD 330000 prize money was at stake. However, as Longinestiming.com added to the final standing, Swiss showjumper Martin Fuchs claimed the top position in the battle. Native Steve Guerdat joined the Swiss equestrian pro in the subsequent position. However, heartbreak was on the list for the American camp, as Callie Schott earned the third position. 

The Leone JEI rider, Martin Fuchs, perfected his run with a jump-off timing of 36.68. On the other hand, Steve Guerdat stopped a little behind at 37.54. However, Callie Schott could only mark with 37.88. But in comparison, she left behind her fellow Olympians present in the Stars and Stripes in Ocala last evening.

The 3-time Olympian and veteran Laura Kraut could claim the sixth position, taking 80.38 seconds in the round event. She failed miserably to find her place in the final. On the other hand, Spencer Smith was in 14th place, being a non-placed competitor. For Kent Farrington, the forgettable evening ended by giving him the 27th place. Notably, this comes in continuation of Schott’s staunch show in recent times.

Callie Schott holds her ground

The Longines League of Nations Series unfolded aptly in the Paris Olympics year with many expectations. In February, they planned to hold the first leg in Dubai. Germany left the tournament with the top podium, whereas the Americans were in tatters claiming the sixth position. However, motivated Callie Schott performed largely among the American equestrian squad. That performance hyped the motivation for the second leg in the Lugano Diamonds Grand Prix with enormous prize money. Team USA thoroughly kept that factor in mind while building the team for the bout. 

Several big names such as Olympian Laura Kraut, Aaron Vale, and Kent Farrington were present on the team. Laura and Kent earned their nominations by replacing Hannah Selleck and Alise Oken. However, the ultimate result only favored Callie Schott. However, in Ocala, this was not the first time Callie Schott shone brighter. 

Read more: Equestrian World Sets Sights on Paris Championship, Announces Dates Following This Year’s Success

This month, in Ocala, Callie Schott earned several standings, positioning in the top ten. With her equine, Garant, in CSI4* 1. 50 Grand Prix Qualifier, she claimed the second position. So, her timely inclusion in Team USA helped the squad stay in the top three. 

Also read: “I’m Still Flying”: Tokyo Olympics Equestrian Champion Peder Fredricson Triumphant Once Again in London GCT Grand Prix