After the first competition, it was already time for the second round of the GCL in Doha. Unlike the previous class, this class counted as qualification for the Grand Prix, but the results again were calculated for both the individual and team ranking. As one of the last to go, Marcus Ehning had his eyes on the prize and was the one victorious on Stargold (v. Stakkato Gold).
The win came in the hands of Marcus Ehning and the 12-year-old Stargold (v. Stakkato Gold). At the time Ehning came in the ring, Simon Delestre was leading the way with a time of 68,65 on Dexter Fontenis Z (v. Diarado). Ehning had a clear vision in mind and was almost two seconds faster than the Frenchman. But before Ehning took over the lead, it was his compatriot Christian Kukuk who had put himself on top. In the saddle of Mumbai (v. Diamant de Semilly), the German rider finished in 68,57 and thus was just a little bit faster than Delestre but was defeated right after by Ehning.
The top five was complete with Gerrit Nieberg with Ben (v. Sylvain) at four followed by Henrik von Eckermann on Calizi (v. Cellestial).
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Back with a bang! GCL Season Opener in Doha Win Secured by Riesenbeck International
Today’s results set the stage for the next legs of the GCL as horses and riders head across the globe, where the next rounds will play out in the breathtaking destinations of Miami Beach and Mexico City. Over €36 million in prize money is on offer in the 2023 LGCT and GCL season with over €10 million alone in one weekend for teams in the GCL Super Cup at the GC Prague Playoffs in November.
St Tropez Pirates, featuring brand new signings Simon Delestre and Marlon Modolo Zanotelli also collected just four faults, with an accumulated time of just over a second slower than the winning team, which earned themselves a well-deserved silver trophy.
A mix of team rivalry and competitive spirit shone through with Valkenswaard United finishing in an impressive third, with returning riders Marcus Ehning aboard the on-form Stargold, and John Whitaker and Equine America Unick du Francport leading the team to the final spot on the podium today.
It has been mixed emotions for the Riesenbeck International squad this week as team rider and owner Ludger Beerbaum was taken to hospital yesterday after a fall.
With the unveiling of the new weekend format. Riders were challenged by GCL’s Round 1 and Round 2 being back-to-back, rather than the traditional two-day rollout. Philipp Weishauppt commented to GCTV: "The new format with both rounds in one day and I thought it was great."
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Source: Press Release
Photo©: GCL