November 18, 2009

German based New Zealand showjumper Samantha McIntosh has finished a close second in a grand prix class at the 2009 Festival of Horses in Vienna, Austria.

McIntosh and Loxley 38 were a narrow second in the Mercedes 1.6m grand prix yesterday, .59 of a second behind former European champion Christian Ahlmann (Germany) on Lorenzo.

Only six of the 40 starters went through to the jump-off, with McIntosh first out over a difficult course.

"There was a tricky plank at the last, and a lot had that down," said a very tired but happy McIntosh, who set a cracking pace and bagged €15,000 for her second place finish.

Ahlmann, who won a Mercedes car for his efforts, was second to last to go, so had the luxury of knowing the time to beat. The two were the only combinations to leave everything up in the jump-off.

"Loxley is feeling as good as he ever has," said McIntosh, who has been competing on him for six years.

The horse was out with injury a couple of years ago but is finding consistent top form of late.

"Every show we get out of him is a pleasure."

Earlier in the show McIntosh won a 1.45m on Lindberg des Hayettes, placed fourth on Loxley in a 1.5m class, was in a fifth-placed mixed team in the international teams competition and ninth on Lindberg in a 1.4m class.

"I am very pleased with how the horses are going," said McIntosh. "They seem to still be on the form they had in Birmingham, which is cool."

It was just over a month ago that McIntosh won the leading lady rider crown at the British Horse of the Year Show in Birmingham, as well as the 1.6m grand prix and placed seventh in the Showjumper of the Year.

But Vienna holds a special place in McIntosh's heart.

"This is a show that is one of my favourites. I have been to it maybe 11 times – every year but one since I have been in Europe."

"It's a nice show because you have only two horses so you are not running around all day. I have won a few classes here over the years, but have never been good in the grand prix."

She had set her heart on doing well this time.

The show is quite unique – the derby is the longest indoor course in the world and several special obstacles, including the double plank and a big Liverpool (jump) down the middle of the arena that competitors had to jump three times during the class.

It is very much the indoor season in Europe now, and while 14-year-old Loxley is an old hand at it, Lindberg is still learning the ropes.

"It was the first time for Lindberg to jump that, and he was really good."

McIntosh is looking forward to heading home to New Zealand for a brief spell over Christmas and New Year. Her only plans so far are "not to do any competing".

"But no doubt I'll head to a show or two if there is something on."