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.

According to Guerdat, Lancelotta is the perfect horse for these kinds of decisive rounds. “She is a joy to ride in a jump-off. She thinks along with you, can handle sharp turns, and leave out a stride. So, I don’t have to watch what my competitors are doing. I make my own plan and try to execute it as best as possible. Today, she responded even better than I expected.”

The atmosphere in the Brabanthallen also made an impression on the Swiss rider. “I love the atmosphere here. The stands are full, and you are surrounded by horse enthusiasts. That makes riding here a real pleasure.” Guerdat is already looking forward to tomorrow: “The first Rolex Grand Slam of the season and one of the most important days of the year. My horse, Albfuehren’s Iashin Sitte, is in great form, so I’m looking forward to it.”

result