FEDELE

DEFENDING CHAMPION Bianca Fedele, riding her customary horse, CC DUSTY, retained the FEI adult showjumping challenge over two days at the Kingston Polo Club, Caymanas Estates, on Friday and Saturday.

Sunday's final day of the three-day event, which should have featured the league finals, was postponed owing to the inclement weather. It has been rescheduled to a date to be announced.

Fedele, an 18-year-old past student of Hillel Academy, led her 10 opponents on the first day with two clear rounds. She came back with a good showing on Saturday and, despite registering four faults, was still able to finish on top. Fedele, who last year won with four clear rounds, only incurred faults in the final speed round on Saturday.

She won ahead of former junior champion Justin Vaz aboard SHABBA RANKS.

Vaz, a student at Campion College, had eight faults during the two days of competition, the same as third-placed Gaby Ralston aboard APPEAL.

Championship trophy

Former top rider Julian Hyde could only manage seventh, but this was attributed to the fact that he rode a horse to which he was not accustomed.

Fedele received the championship trophy from veteran showjumper Trina DeLisser, who was the judge for the jumping competition.

National coach Betty Wates, who is also the coach of Fedele, said the promising young equestrian was not only pleased with her performance but happy to leave on a winning note.

"She is due to leave the island later this month to attend university in the United States," said Wates. "However, like Samantha Albert who performed so well in the Olympics, she loves the sport and says she is looking forward to her holidays in Jamaica to be competing once again."

The competition was sponsored by Hi-Pro Farm Supplies.