Saturday evening at the Brabanthallen reached a fever pitch during the CSI5 Audi Prize*. In a buzzing Main Stadium, Swiss legend Steve Guerdat proved once again why he belongs to the world's absolute elite. In a thrilling jump-off over 1.50m, he sped to victory aboard the 13-year-old mare Lancelotta (Falkenhof's Lancer).
No fewer than 16 combinations qualified for the final jump-off. Guerdat crossed the finish line in an incomparable time of 32.89 seconds, narrowly staying ahead of Dutch fan favorite Harrie Smolders. Riding the impressive Mr. Tac (Non Stop), Smolders gave it his all but had to settle for second place with a time of 33.20 seconds.
The podium was completed by Frenchman Kevin Staut, who delivered a clear round in 33.55 seconds with Vida Loca Z (Vigo d'Arsouilles). Staut’s performance pushed his compatriot Simon Delestre and Gatsby du Tillard (President) out of the top three. Fifth place went to Katrin Eckermann in the saddle of Iron Dames Dialou Blue PS (Diarado's Boy). The German rider finished ahead of Maikel van der Vleuten with Quastor vd Heffinck (Rock' N Roll Semilly).
A Preview of the Rolex Grand Prix
The Audi Prize served as the perfect warm-up for the Rolex Grand Prix, where the pressure will be dialed up even further. "Lancelotta felt fantastic today. Winning in an atmosphere like The Dutch Masters is always special," a delighted Guerdat remarked after the prize ceremony.
