Sweden’s Henrik von Eckermann set a blistering pace in Saturday morning’s 1.50m speed class presented by EGO7 at the CSI5*-W Jumping Verona. Starting sixth in a field of 41 starters, the former World Cup winner aboard Iliana (v. Cardento x Gentleman) delivered a masterclass against the clock, laying down an unbeatable time of 57.65 seconds to take the victory.
Despite the tactical advantage usually held by late starters, Von Eckermann’s early effort proved untouched. Italy’s Emanuele Gaudiano came closest to catching the Swede, steering the dark bay gelding Esteban de Hus (v. Cornet Obolensky x Baloubet du Rouet) through a tight, clean round in 58.02 seconds to secure second place. World Number 1 Richard Vogel (GER) rounded out the top three with the eight-year-old Baxxter 4 (v. Breitling LS x Acorado), crossing the line clear in 58.41 seconds. Less than a second separated the top three combinations in a thrilling showcase of speed and precision.
Germany’s Hans-Dieter Dreher claimed fourth place riding Harley de la Cense (v. Andiamo Semilly x Calvaro F.C.) in 59.62 seconds, while Sweden’s Petronella Andersson completed the top five aboard All Minka van het Gerendal Z (v. Agana van het Gerendal Z x Echo van T Spieveld) in 59.68 seconds.
