Ben Maher Achieves Major Victory at Winter Equestrian Festival

World number five showjumper Ben Maher secured a significant victory in the United States following a foot injury sustained in a non-equestrian accident.

Competing at the Adequan WEF Challenge in Wellington International, Florida, on 27 March, just two days after fracturing his foot, Maher rode his mount Point Break to triumph.

The Olympic gold medallist explained that a heavy machinery piece fell on his foot while he was opening the back of his car, but he managed to align the broken bones and wear a supportive riding boot for the competition.

Maher, along with Action-Breaker stallion owned by Pamela Wright and Charlotte Rossetter, arrived in the US on 23 March and returned to Europe shortly after the competition. In a heated jump-off with six of the world's top ten riders participating, Maher finished ahead of home rider Kent Farrington, who placed second on Toulayna by 1.15 seconds.

Maher remarked on his strategy, stating he avoided watching competitors to focus solely on his performance. He reflected on the importance of this win to boost his team's morale, especially after several second-place finishes in previous grands prix events.

Point Break is set to return to Europe in anticipation of the World Cup Final, scheduled for 2-6 April, where Maher will represent Britain alongside Robert Whitaker and Vermento. Additionally, Harry Charles also found success during week 12, winning the five-star 1.40m speed class with his father's horse Sherlock.