The CSI4* Jumping International de Bourg-en-Bresse reached a fever pitch on Friday as some of the world's fastest combinations took to the arena for the 1.50m main class. In a display of sheer speed and precision, it was the "Flying Frenchman" Julien Epaillard who claimed the top step of the podium, delighting the home crowd.
Riding the seasoned 13-year-old stallion Le Coultre de Muze (Presley Boy x Vigo d’Arsouilles), Epaillard showcased why he is considered one of the fastest riders on the circuit. Navigating the jump-off with his trademark efficiency, he crossed the timers in a blistering 35.46 seconds, a result that proved impossible to beat.
Rene Lopez Lizarazo (COL) took the runner-up spot aboard the 9-year-old mare Casa Lady Love PS Old. The pair delivered a foot-perfect double clear, stopping the clock at 35.86 seconds, just four-tenths of a second behind the winner. Third place went to another Frenchman, Cedric Hurel, riding the veteran Zangersheide gelding Fantasio Floreval Z. They posted a solid time of 37.25 seconds to secure their spot on the podium.
Notable performances included Mathieu Michot and the promising 8-year-old Guess du Challois, who finished fourth, and Belgium's Gudrun Patteet, who secured sixth place with Sea Coast Qarvaljo d'Or.
