Yesterday 82 times the starter bell rang in the CSI3* GLOCK’s Opening Competition over 1.40 m. For the first time in the International Show Jumping at the GHPC, the top riders saddled their horses and really went out for it. A total of 25 participating duos finished a penalty-free round but only one of them managed to stay under the 60 second mark.
Francois Mathy Jr (BEL) risked it all in the saddle of his eleven-year-old BWP stallion Falco van de Clehoeve and, at 58.92 seconds, was not to be beaten. "We are here participating in a beautiful tournament and I am delighted with this kick-off victory. However, we still have quite a few days ahead of us and, for the Grand Prix on Sunday, I hope to have that necessary little bit of luck”, said the beaming winner in his interview.
Closest to the winning time was Sanne Thijssen. The just 17-year-old Dutch rider presented a fabulous round with her Baloubet du Rouet-daughter Ulena, securing second place in a penalty-free 60.29 seconds. German rider Felix Hassmann made it to third place. He crossed the finishing line with eleven-year-old gelding SL Brazonado after 61.14 seconds. Austria also twice achieved placings with Jürgen Krackow (S) on Ailonka (7th place - 0/66.19) and Stefanie Bistan (NÖ) on Kennedy 2 (13th place - 0/74.34).