2002 World Equestrian Games

United States Finishes First in Reining Qualifier at World Equestrian Games 2002

Individually, U.S. Riders Placed One, Two, Three

Jerez de la Frontera, Spain-September 18, 2002 - The United States finished on top in the first qualifier for the first-ever Reining World Championship on Wednesday, at the 2002 World Equestrian Games in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain.

The U.S. squad combined for a score of 661.50 points. Canada came in second with a score of 641.50 and Italy finished right behind, scoring 638.50.

Three of the four U.S. riders finished with the highest individual scores. Tom McCutcheon of Pilot Point, TX, riding Conquistador Whiz, owned by George Shifrin, scored on top with 222. Shawn Flarida of Springfield, OH, riding San Jo Freckles, owned by Michael Harper, captured the next best score of 220. Scott McCutcheon of Whiteboro, TX, and Inwhizable, owned by Inwhizable Partners, finished with the third highest score of 219.50. The fourth rider on the squad Craig Schmersal of Menifee, CA riding Tidal Wave Jack, owned by the B.S. Syndicate, received a 215 for his ride.

The top five teams from the Qualifier, plus five additional individuals, move on to Sunday's World Championship final with a clean slate. The start order is determined by the results of the Qualifier with the highest placed rider going last.