whitaker-lynch_38q2044With everything to play for in the Longines Global Champions Tour 2013 ranking, the legendary Whitaker brothers Michael and John are among the stars of show jumping competing at the 3rd leg of the series later today. The start list for what promises to be a high calibre class in the Schlosspark in Wiesbaden, Germany, includes 2011 and 2012 Champion Edwina Tops-Alexander riding Cevo Itot du Chateau, Christian Ahlmann on Taloubet Z, Laura Kraut on Cedric, Sergio Alvarez Moya on Zipper, Rolf-Goran Bengtsson on Quintero, Ludger Beerbaum riding Chiara, Gerco Schroder riding London and Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum on Bella Donna. British supremo John Whitaker notched up an impressive joint first place with Irish rider Denis Lynch in the six bar class yesterday on his amazing chestnut Maximillian, showing he is on form and a strong rival in today’s Grand Prix. John will be riding Argento and faces hot competition from his brother Michael who will be riding Viking. Michael was victorious on Viking in the opening leg in Madrid making him the early Ranking Leader, but was overtaken by Pius Schwizer who is currently out in front after scoring strong points in both Madrid and Hamburg. The first three shows have all been a test of skill in large grass arenas and will be followed by events in London, Cannes and Monaco which will all be on sand surfaces. The Cannes and Monaco arenas are a challenge for riders and horses with limited space to manoeuvre. The variety of showgrounds on the Longines Global Champions Tour series ensure that only the best, all-round riders and horses get to the top of the ranking and the overall championship. © GCT press release