2003 Pan American Games - Show Jumping

A Great Start for Team U.S.A.

A Happy Team

It was obvious that these riders figured out that balancing act after negotiating what Margie called a “nice introductory course.” There were 14 jumps and 17 jumping efforts in the first course.

Overall our team is happy. “The team spirit has been great,” commented Chris. Kappler went on to explain that they are also pleased with the facilities, noting that many of the rumors that caused concern that the facilities and event would not be up to par were unfounded. “The facility is beautiful and it’s as professional and sporting an event as we see anywhere.”

Even the hot temperatures don’t seem to be a problem. “We tried to bring horses that had a little blood,” commented Beezie. “I was expecting a lot worse,” added Lauren. “I think we’ve jumped in worse conditions.”

And so day one for show jumping was a home run and just what was expected of the U.S. riders. Now with three more rounds to go hopes are high that the results will continue to show why these riders and horses were selected to represent the U.S. in these Olympic Games. In the words of Chapot, “these people are very professional about what they do. They were chosen to come to do what they did today.”