Toni makes triumphant return in Malaysian Open

MANILA, Philippines - Toni Leviste, back on the saddle after a year-long break from competitive tournaments, won the Malaysian Open in style as she bested a field of riders from 13 countries at the 3Q Equestrian grounds in Kuang, Malaysia recently.

On board her 19-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare Globe Platinum Just Jewels, Leviste whisked off her rivals from the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Sweden, Switzerland and other Asian nations with a flawless jump in the first round where she finished with no time faults.

Entering second to last in the jump-off round, Leviste steered Just Jewels to a heart stopping, high-speed time of 43.28 seconds, clearly running away with the first prize.

“I am just so happy to be out in the field competing for the country again,” said Leviste, who has taken a 12-month break from international competitions. She resumed her training in Belgium early this year as she gears up for the Asian Games in Guangzhou in November.

“Here in Malaysia, I always hear compatriot Charice’s (Pempengco) hit song, ‘Pyramid.’ Whenever I hear it playing on the radio, it inspires me how a kababayan is making our country proud abroad. Of course, whenever I can, and in my own little way, I’d also like to do the same,” said Leviste.

Helena Gabrielsson of Sweden finished second with a time of 50.22 seconds in the jump-off, while Nabil Ismail of Malaysia clocked 52.11 seconds for third.

Chris Meyer of Switzerland and Mary Kate Hassett of the USA placed fourth and fifth, respectively.