"I was really motivated to do a good job," Epaillard said. "There were a lot of clears, but it was also a course where you could easily make a mistake. When I entered I had the job to deliver  for France. Luck was on my side today, certainly towards the last fence." 

Fringan de Vesquerie is a really championships horse according to Epaillard. "Normally he gets better and more concentrated every day, so I'm really looking forward to the next days."

The Championship opened with a clear round from Marcus Ehning and the 13-year-old gelding, Coolio 42 (Casalito, breeder: M. Wirtz). "I played it safe, as first to go." eventually the German rider finished 20th.

Currently ranked second is Dutch showjumper, Harrie Smolders and Mr. Tac (Non Stop, breeder: E. Meyers). "I was the last to go for my team," Smolders said after his ride. "This position gave me a bit more ease, that's why I think I could afford to take a bit more risks with my horse," Smolders concludes.

Great-Britain's Scott Brash is currently ranked third aboard Hello Mango (Untouchable). The pair finished in 72.19 seconds, referring Sophie Hinners and Iron Dames Singlcair (Singular LS La Silla) to the fourth spot. The current top five is completed by Steve Guerdat and Dynamix de Belheme (Snaike de Blondel).

Germany really wanted to confirm in front of the home crowd as Daniel Deusser and Otello de Guldenboom (Tobago Z) are currently sixth.

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