McNab & Best Friend First Australian Eventing Combination to Qualify for Postponed Tokyo Olympics
At the first FEI Eventing Nations Cup for 2020 at Haras du Pin (FRA), Kevin McNab not only placed 7th individually in the CCIO4*-NC-S on his second horse Scuderia 1918 A Best Friend, but the pair also became the very first Australian Eventing combination to officially qualify for the postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, by achieving an MER at a CCI4*S.
This confirmation result is an FEI requirement for combinations who achieved Olympic qualifications in 2019.
Kevin McNab and Sucderia 1918 Don Quidam
“I had a super ride on Scuderia 1918 A Best Friend! I really enjoyed it. My plan was to go out quietly and let him find his gear. He answered all the tough questions and grew in confidence along the course. He is such an intelligent horse and takes it all in his stride. Even with the quiet ride he was only 3 secs over time so he has quite an engine," said Kevin.
"He has progressed so much in the past 12 months and gets better and better every time he goes out. I am really happy to be « officially » qualified for Tokyo 2020 with this confirmation MER and also really excited about his future!”
The Australian Team finished finished the Nations Cup competition in 7th place
The Australian Team consisted of Chris Burton riding Jefferson 18 (the horses first time at 4* level), Isabel English riding Feldale Mouse and Kevin McNab riding Scuderia 1918 Don Quidam.
Chris Burton and Jefferson 18
Isabel English and Feldale Mouse
Supplied by the Australian Equestrian Team