Olympic hopeful sidelined by injury

This past weekends fall and injury of McLain Ward during the $30,000 Surpass Grand Prix at the Winter Equestrian Festival at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, Florida has left the horse world wondering what will happen with his chances at this years Olympic games.

McLain Ward on Saphire at the WEG

McLain Ward, an Olympic hopeful for this years Show Jumping event to be held August 3 - 8 in London, sustained a compound fracture to his patella that required surgery. At this point in time it is questionable as to whether or not he will be healed and recovered enough to compete in the selection trials to take place March 21 - 24 in Wellington, Florida.


What happens if Ward can't compete in the March selection trials?


Well, His chances at participating in his 3rd Olympic games are not completely lost. The deadline for the final Nominated Entries is not until June 17. Between the selection trials in March and the final deadline are a number of designated Observation Events where a subjective selection can still be made for the Olympic Show Jumping Event. More information on Potential 2012 Olympic Games Candidates can be found at http://www.usef.org/


McLain Ward may not be a Chicago Area rider, however I am sure that many of us in the Chicagoland Equestrian world will be closely watching his recuperation and progress in the saddle as well as wishing him the best of luck in his recovery!


For more information on Chicago Area riders, events and facilities go to http://www.chicagoequestrian.com/




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