In the jump-off at the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Lexington (USA), Daniel Bluman actually wanted to approach the third jump, an impressive wall, cautiously. But then his competitive spirit prevailed. A courageous turn put him on the road to success in the jump-off of seven horses with his long-time partner Ladriano Z. "Jump number three was a very, very difficult jump in the jump-off because my horse is looking at the wall," he said. "My plan was not to take a big risk, but then I just did it!" The duo crossed the finish line in 35.13 seconds. Nicholas Dello Joio (USA) and Cornet's Cambridge galloped with full vigour to the last jump and finished a close second (35.47 seconds), with Hunter Holloway (USA) and Pepita Con Spita third (35.99) at the 139th National Horse Show.
Bluman has partnered the 14-year-old Ladriano Z for more than five years, and the pair have represented Israel at several championships. But Lexington's victory was particularly significant after the bay was forced to take a break between 2020 and 2021 due to injury. "We weren't really sure what was going to happen with his career," Bluman said. "Last year this was the first Grand Prix he jumped again and he finished third. Since then he's had a pretty good run. He doesn't show very often. He's been second and third several times, but tonight he won. I'm very happy for him to put his name down at a prestigious horse show."
After also finishing second with Gemma W in Washington (USA), Bluman moved into second place in the NAL standings with 37 points, behind Conor Swail (IRL) with 40 points. Devin Ryan (USA) is in third place with 26 points. "If I make it to the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final, I will be competing both Ladriano Z and Gemma W," Bluman said.
The North American League continues on 12 November 2022 in Toronto (CAN).
