Team Switzerland leads the team competition after the initial compulsories. | Photo: FEI/Lix Gregg

The Christie’s International Real Estate’s vaulting at the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) World Equestrian Games (WEG) Tryon 2018 began Sept. 18 with the initial team and individual compulsory rounds.

Coming into the event, it was expected to be a tough battle between the three vaulting “heavyweights”: Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. However, after the initial compulsory round, the doors have been thrown wide open and the race for the medals is on.

Switzerland threw down the gauntlet in impressive style, performing their test with harmony and confidence. Alongside their horse Rayo de la Luz with Monika Winkler-Bischofberger on the longe line, they posted a whopping 7.979. Rising to the occasion, they proved they are here with the intent to leave with gold around their necks