The Irish wunderkind Bertam Allen continues to make his mark in showjumping, winning a FEI World Cup qualifier in Verona, Italy.
World’s best
Once again the 19-year-old was riding Molly Malone, on whom he won theDublin Grand Prix and came seventh individually at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG).
This time they took on the world’s best and beat them, putting WEG gold medallists Maikel van der Vleuten and VDL Groep Verdi into second place.
Ten riders made it through to the jump-off but none could beat Bertram’s fast time of 34.89sec– even though he put in an extra stride to the first fence.
Took a risk
“My horse is naturally fast,” said Betram “I got a great turn to the second fence and then everywhere else was quite sharp and to the second-last fence I risked it a bit”.
“I’m very happy and I’m very proud of my mare. This is one of her first shows since the World Equestrian Games and she gave me 100 per cent today.”
Dutch rider Maikel van der Vleuten cut every corner he could, but was just outside the winning time with 35.22sec.
Three-time World Cup champion Marcus Ehning was third riding Cornado NRW (35.77sec). Marcus trains Bertram, but said he had “no problem” being beaten by his pupil.
‘Quite proud’
“I’m quite proud that I could help him a few steps on his way,” he said. “I’m not really his only trainer, but any time he needs help I try to help him. We have been working together now for a few years and we have a good relationship.”
Michael Whitaker was the highest placed Brit, riding Viking who had one down the jump-off. His nephew William had an unlucky first round, jumping a superb clear to the last, when Fandango hit the last oxer.
Ben Maher was the only other British rider competing and had two down with Diva II.