International show jumping in Sharjah reached its climax today in the 1.55m CSI5*-W, presented by the Sharjah Sports Council. This class, featuring a jump-off, counted toward the Longines Ranking points. After a jump-off with five contenders, Joao Victor Castro Aguiar Gomes De Lima jumped to victory in the saddle of Hendrik Denutte's former Kenzo Quality Z (breeder: Quality Stud).
The Brazilian national anthem echoed across the United Arab Emirates thanks to Joao Victor Castro Aguiar Gomes De Lima and the 12-year-old son of Kannan. The pair was the only one to complete the jump-off clear. Nearly 10 seconds faster, but with one rail down, David Will followed in second place with the Paul Schockemöhle-bred Xixo Borgia (Big Star).
Third place went to Henrik von Eckermann. Belgian breeding dominated this main class. Together with the 10-year-old BWP mare, Qasirah van de Reistenhoek (Emerald, breeder: Yasin Ramont), the Swede stayed ahead of Tim Gredley with Vuitton of Picobello Z (Vagabond de la Pomme, breeder: Picobello Horses).
Shane Breen and the 13-year-old Scarteen (Golden Hawk) completed the top five. Just outside this top group, Abdel Saïd finished in sixth place. As the fastest four-faulter in the initial round, Said landed in the prizes with the nine-year-old KWPN gelding, Max (Grandorado TN).
