It’s the end of the British Open and it’s been a great show for me but unfortunately I am not going home with the title. I have been top of the leader board from day one and went into today’s final with a jump in hand but I knocked the last fence in the jump-off and finished on a slower time than Ellen. Because Ellen carried four points into the final this meant we were both on the same score but because her time was quicker she won the title.
I am disappointed but it’s just how show jumping goes. One pole down can make all the difference. The final made a great spectacle for the audience with the last fence being the decider and I always want my family to be the winner if I can’t so I am really pleased for Ellen.
My game plan was to go clear but looking back, with a jump in hand, maybe I should have gone faster. I decided to ride USA Today in the final rather than Casino because he has been jumping so well all week and I know he has the ability to beat any horse in the Championship. He was really unlucky to have the last pole.
The best person on the day won and I think Ellen is a worthy champ – well done Ellen! And second place isn’t so bad I still won £9,600! I will be back to battle again next year.
Thanks for following me at the British Open,
Rob x