BRIDGEHAMPTON NY.--David Blake of Ireland on Gucci Des Embruns won the $30,000, 1.40m Jumper Challenge benefiting the Kevin Babington Foundation on Sunday, Aug. 23 at the Hampton Classic.

David Blake on Gucci Des Embruns (Photo by KindMedia)On opening day of the eight day show, Blake went clean against 27 competitors over the first course set by Nick Granat and returned to also go clean in the Winning Round in 45.754 to win. 

As a designated benefit class for the Babington Foundation, a portion of each horse’s Jumper Challenge entry fee was given directly to the Foundation,

The donation totaled $4,500.

The Foundation was created in 2019 to provide funding and support for equestrian show jumping riders who sustain spinal injuries.

In addition to providing financial assistance, the Foundation strives to educate riders, trainers and show organizers about the most current safety measures designed to reduce the risk of serious injuries that can occur while riding.

 

“I’M DELIGHTED it was an Irish win,” Blake said. “It was brilliant. I was a little surprised with our speed, actually. He’s a naturally quick horse; his foot speed is very good, and I thought my track was very good."

"I couldn’t be happier with him," he said. "We just came from Old Salem, but we sent this horse to the Hampton Classic especially for this class. We also plan to do the 2* Grand Prix next Sunday.”

A number of riders purposely chose to compete in claases such as this to increase donations to the Babington Foundation.

Americans Peter Lutz and Molly Ashe Cawley placed second and third, respectively.

Lutz on Katriona was  one of only three to go clean in the Winning Round, finishing in 47.568 seconds to place second.

Cawley on La Rosso Lady placed third, finishing clean in 48.196 seconds..