J’can rider impresses in China
Published:Sunday | November 17, 2019 | 12:12 AM
Jamaican rider Rachael Chandley copped second place at the third staging of the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) CSIO for Juniors and Young Riders held in Tianjin, China, November 1-3, 2019.
The result meant that Chandley became the first Jamaican Junior rider to place in the individual category at the prestigious event.
Chandley, who is 17 years old, competed in the Grand Prix event on the first day and was one of only two riders who went clear in the first round of a 1.10-metre class.
The young Jamaican came in second behind China’s Jiarui Li, a feat that is even more remarkable, considering that she was riding a borrowed horse, Uriah, that she had only been allowed to ride for 30 minutes and complete seven jumps the day before.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, Jamaica was unable to compete in the team event as only three members were able to travel to China. Caitlin Kerr and Marlee McKeehan were the other listed Jamaicans at the event, along with coach Julian Hyde.
Chandley was extremely happy with the result and expressed pride in the opportunity to represent Jamaica at this level in the event.
GREATLY HONOURED
“I was greatly honoured to be asked to represent Jamaica in China and am very happy that I was able to make it to the podium. It was an amazing experience,” said Chandley.
Meanwhile, FEI president Ingmar De Vos highlighted the value in competing at the event and the importance of representation.
“Competing together as a team for one’s nation provides an essential foundation for our sport, inspiring our young competitors with values of teamwork, patriotism and companionship; all of which are attributes necessary for sustained long-term international careers,” said De Vos.
The FEI CSIO provides a platform for the top young riders from around the world to compete against their counterparts on the same arena.