Abdullah AlSharbatly took centre stage as Spruce Meadows launched its 2026 show-jumping season with the start of the Continental tournament on Thursday. The Saudi Arabian rider finished first and second in the showcase one-round Mission: Possible 1.45m event.
AlSharbatly and Atome Des Etisses delivered the fastest fault-free performance, crossing the All Canada Ring finish line in 55.68 seconds to claim the victory. He also finished second on his other mount, Valentino, with a time of 57.78 seconds.
Nicola Pohl of Germany and Fruna de Kogis rounded out the podium with a time of 59.38 seconds.
Canadian Piet Van Genugten won two of the other five events on Day 1, which were sponsored by Coril Holdings. Van Genugten captured the 1.30m jumper with Kannamara Equites and the 1.10m with Martini.
Other winners included Vaclav Stanek of Czechia and Langley in the 1.40m jumper; American Isabelle Tolentino and Diassini SM in the 1.30m; and Uri Burstein of Israel and Lefuson VDL in the 1.20m.
The Continental tournament runs through Sunday at Spruce Meadows.
