The riders taking part in the PRG Trophy opened the show in a hushed but convivial atmosphere this morning at the Long Beach Convention Center. In the Prestige Village, the first curious spectators wandered around the warm-up arena and through the luxury exhibitors’ booths, a glimpse at the bustle that will take place during the upcoming four days of competition at the Longines Masters of Los Angeles.

 

The highest standards were demanded from competitors in the arena. Of the 35 riders on the start list for the PRG Trophy, 17 had clear rounds, all with incredibly fast times. In the end, United States rider Hilary McNerney claimed the victory atop of her gelding Vitesse, with a quick time of 29.20 seconds. The young rider clearly enjoyed this first class. “It’s a perfect start to the show! I was really excited; the course was really nice to ride. We could go for it a little, with a couple of options even for the first class. There were some pretty fast times, so I think we were able to get ahead just by living out the first line. But it was fun; I love to ride this way.”

 

The Wellington-based rider is participating for the third time in the Longines Masters of Los Angeles and shared some thoughts on the competition. “It’s always a lovely show. The courses are tough, the riders are always competitive, the organization is very good. They make sure riders and horses are happy. It is always a fun show to compete in, and I always have a good time here.” She echoes the feeling shared by all riders here at the Long Beach Convention Center, where the Longines Masters of Los Angeles is just kicking off an excellent weekend of top-level competition.