The Rolex Grand Prix in Aachen delivered thrilling equestrian sport. In the end, the victory was decided after an ultimate jump-off featuring three combinations. United Touch 'S' and Richard Vogel brought joy to the home crowd by sprinting to victory at lightning speed!
Who would succeed Martin Fuchs and Leone Jei this year, as Aachen's Rolex Grand Prix winners, that was the crucial question. Ultimately, only three combinations managed to complete the two initial rounds without any penalties, leading to a three-way jump-off.
First to start was Sophie Hinners with Iron Dames Singclair (Singular LS La Silla). The German rider put pressure on the competition with a clear round. The "live contender" (Vogel earlier this year won the Rolex Grand Prix in 's Hertogenbosch, red.) was highly motivated to claim his extra bonus of €500,000. The reigning European Champion entered the arena with his European Championship horse, United Touch 'S' (Untouched). The duo shaved more than six seconds off Hinners' time and kept all the rails up!
José Maria Larocca was perhaps the biggest surprise in this Grand Prix. Together with the KWPN gelding Finn Lente (Gaillard de la Pomme), the Argentinian jumped his way to an eventual second place.
Just off the podium, Ben Maher jumped to fourth place with Enjeu de Grisien (Toulon). Steve Guerdat completed the top five with the Selle Français gelding, Venard de Cerisy!
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