Since the start of this year, the powerhouse duo of Harry Charles and Bandit (Obos Quality 004 x Cruisings Mickey Finn) has officially returned to form. "This horse hasn't missed a beat upon his return. From the start of the year until now... he just keeps collecting prizes!"
Their journey back to the top follows a challenging period. In 2024, a fall in Aachen left Charles with a broken wrist. However, the pair showed incredible resilience later on, leading the ‘Archers’ team to victory in the Major League Showjumping in the USA. "He was 'out' for a long time. We had to take our time to go back to basics, but the feeling is completely back!" the British rider shared earlier this month.
That regained confidence was on full display in the 1.50m two-phase class. Charles steered the Ted McKenna-bred Bandit to a narrow victory, clocking in just ahead of Duarte Seabra and the KWPN gelding Karaldo (by Harley, breeder: A. De Bont). Sira Martinez Cullell secured the third spot on the international podium with the 15-year-old gelding Texas (by Tornesch, breeder: Göran Linell).
Just off the podium, Hasan Senturk finished fourth with Avant Toi (by Flyinge Quite Easy), followed by Ibrahim Hani Bisharat and the KWPN mare Happyness (by Van Gogh) in fifth.
