At the Terrain d’Honneur of the Grand Parquet in Fontainebleau, CSI5* riders delivered world-class sport today. Under a radiant sun and in a warm atmosphere, the crowds gathered in large numbers to enthusiastically cheer on the competitors. Following Julien Épaillard’s victory in the French Pro Élite Championship, it was time for the day's highlight: the CSI5 Prix Saur*.
With an eye on Sunday’s prestigious Grand Prix, 52 top combinations took to the start of this 1.55m qualification course against the clock. While 13 riders managed to keep a clean sheet, it was Sweden’s Henrik von Eckermann who claimed the victory. Aboard the experienced mare Glamour Girl (Zirocco Blue VDL x Caletto I), he clocked in at 67.94 seconds.
The world champion finished ahead of two strong Belgians: Pieter Devos took second place with the KWPN mare Jarina J (Cicero Z van Paemel x Harley VDL), followed by Jérôme Guery in third with Gigolo di Villagana (Ballantine di Villagana x Corrado I).
Henrik von Eckermann (SWE), winner:
"I am incredibly happy. The victories you don’t see coming are often the most beautiful. To be honest, I was doubting whether to start at all, as the mare hadn't felt 100% over the last few days. She is 15 and has nothing left to prove. However, during the warm-up, she immediately felt superb, so we decided to go for it. It’s a wonderful day; Janika and I both won on the same day, something I don’t think has ever happened before."
