Michael Jung achieved a historic fifth victory in Kentucky today, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Riding his Olympic gold medal partner, fischerChipmunk FRH, Jung led from start to finish, setting a new dressage record of 18.6 and adding just 2.4 time penalties on cross-country. He came into show jumping with the biggest margin (11.8 points) between first and second in five-star history, so had two rails and 3.8 time faults in hand. They dropped just one rail, winning by a comfortable margin.

“I believe it’s luck,” Jung said following the celebration of his victory — although most people would say his victory was the result of talent and hard work. “It’s something special. So many things can go wrong; it’s happened a few times to me, but I really believe in my horse. I always have a lot of luck here. Without luck, you win nothing. I’m very, very thankful for everything— for such a good horse, for my owners, for my family, for all the people who work in the background.”

American rider Boyd Martin delivered an impressive performance aboard Commando 3, finishing second overall with a final score of 32.8. As the highest-placed American rider, Martin earned the Defender/USEF CCI5*-L Eventing National Championship title. Martin’s two other entries, Luke 140 and Fedarman B, also finished within the top 10, making him only the third rider since 2008 to have three horses place inside the top ten at the same five-star event. He also had the distinction of keeping all the rails up on all three of his rides today, adding just a few time faults on Fedarman B.

“I was thinking this morning: I have two chances of winning here,” Martin mused. “Maybe Michael went to the strip club last night or maybe he goes off course. But other than that, I was just hoping for second place.”

“Michael is an inspiration to me—I often watch videos and try to copy him. I’ve never seen a rider so good in all three phases, and he’ll be remembered as one of the greatest event riders ever,” Martin said.

Great Britain’s Harry Meade secured third place with Et Hop du Matz, the only rider to finish on his dressage score of 34.2. Meade also claimed fourth place with Grafennacht, with a score of 39.6 .​ With these placings, Harry Meade becomes just the fifth rider with multiple top-five finishes at Kentucky. Along with Martin, Meade praised Jung for his skill.

“[Michael] will be remembers as one of the greats. I’ve followed the sport from the 50s, 60s, 70s—before I was even born, and I think Michi is hands down, without a doubt, the greatest event rider there’s ever been. I don’t think there will ever be anyone better. We are living in a moment with an extraordinary thing. I think often, when it’s happening, people don’t appreciate it. But in 50 years time? He will be remembered as the best there ever was.”

The top five were rounded out by Britain’s Tom McEwen on Brookfield Quality, who finished fifth with a score of 40.6 .

What a terrific competition ending with three riders who exemplify horsemanship, patience and perseverance as well as amazing talent and a bit of humbleness.