Is There a Chance of Another Equine Athletic Phenomenon Like Beezie?
Beezie Madden Continues to Shine in the World of Show Jumping
Beezie Madden, the American equestrian legend, has once again proven her mettle in the world of show jumping. Madden, who is currently the only female name in the top-10 of the Longines Rankings, continues to make history with her impressive performances.
At the Syracuse Invitational Sport Horse Tournament, Madden faced off against Alexandra Thornton and Cornetto K from Great Britain in the jump-off round. However, it was Madden and her horse, Darry Lou, who emerged victorious. This victory came just a few years after Madden and Authentic earned a second, back-to-back Olympic Team gold medal and Individual bronze in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
Madden's success in the sport is not limited to the Olympics. In 2018, she made headlines by winning the Longines FEI World CupTM Jumping Championship in Paris, making her the oldest athlete ever to earn the title. This victory also marked her fourth FEI World CupTM Jumping Finals Championship.
Madden's journey to the top of the show jumping world began long before her recent successes. In 2006, she won the $147,270 Shell Cup Derby at Spruce Meadows. The Syracuse Invitational, created by the Maddens, has also been an economic boon to Syracuse, New York.
The National Horse Show at the Syracuse Invitational received the North American Riders Group award for best U.S. show in 2010. Madden's equine retirement facility, Madden Mountain, was opened in 2017.
Despite her numerous achievements, Madden has hinted at coaching riders up to the championship level as part of her next chapter. Her successor in U.S. show jumping is not officially designated, but prominent riders like Lucy Davis and McLain Ward are often seen as leading figures in American show jumping.
However, Madden has indicated her intention to step back from certain aspects of high-performance sport following the Tokyo Olympic Games, now rescheduled for 2021. This could pave the way for a new generation of American show jumpers to rise to the top.
In a rare occurrence, the Longines FEI Jumping Nations CupTM of the United States in Wellington ended in a jump-off round between the USA and Great Britain. Madden and Darry Lou made the final gallop for home in what would ultimately be the winning time.
Despite the occasional male-dominated field, Madden continues to shine in a sport that is traditionally dominated by men. In 2018, the top 13 finishers in the Longines FEI World CupTM Jumping Championship were male. However, the following year, when Madden and Breitling finished sixth, the top 13 finishers were once again male.
Madden's journey in show jumping is a testament to her dedication, skill, and love for the sport. Her achievements serve as an inspiration to many, and her impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.
