ShowBiz Feature
over a very airy and tricky course in possibly the largest Interna- didn’t even notice it. But Carlsson was coming in a bit too fast,
tional show jumping competition, is quite impressive. and was in danger of running past his distance, which could
Despite losing one team member, Canada managed to tie the cost them a rail and Olympic victory.
USA score of 12 faults, which forced a jump off for the Gold. However, Simpson steadied his mount, and Carlsson put in
McLain started off with a clear round, and was followed by a short stride at the base of the fence before powering over.
four faults for Canada’s Jill Henselwood on Special Ed. Laura Somehow, he knew that this was no ordinary competition, and
and Cedric put in a clean round, and then Canadian rider Eric he made sure that no legs of his would go anywhere near the
Lamaze and Hickstead (who later claimed Individual Gold) de- top rails of the last oxer on course.
livered another clean and quick ride. At this point, it was up to As the pair landed, the crowd erupted, and Carlsson galloped
Will to maintain the USA’s lead. If he was clear, there would be off proudly as the USA Team realized what they had done.
no need for the final 2 riders to compete, the USA would win! Will’s face told the entire story as he removed his helmet, waved
Carlsson is quite a hot horse, and seems to be quite a difficult to the crowd and simply reveled in the moment.
ride. Although Will is a veteran competitor, having to deliver a The entire US team gave an amazing performance and proved
clear jump off round at the Olympic Games will give any rider that determination, courage, and persistence are the keys to
nerves. As the pair began the course, Will kept Carlsson under great show jumping. Perhaps the best performance came from
control and guided him safely over the first part of the course. Will Simpson, who earned a Gold medal in his first Olympic
Everything seemed to click together, and it wasn’t until the last Games by staying strong and persistent under immense pres-
fence that the pair had a bit of a bobble. It wasn’t a huge hitch; sure. He was the first Olympic show jumper from the West
those not in tune with riding and jumping at this level probably Coast in over three decades, and he certainly made us proud.
Page 82 & Opposite Page: Will Simpson aboard Carlsson Vom Dach.
This Page: The Gold Medal Ceremony with (left to right) Will Simpson, Laura Kraut, Beezie Madden and McLain Ward.
All Photos © Getty Images
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