With 41 riders representing 13 nations, this second class of the CSI5* marks a new stage in the event's growing momentum. The world's top riders continue to fine-tune their performances and adjust their strategies over increasingly demanding courses as the weekend's major highlights approach.

For this midday class, course designer Grégory Bodo created a fluid track but with several clearly identified challenges. These included vertical number 8 over a tray (bidet), positioned on the curve in front of the hospitality boxes, which fell regularly, and the oxer-vertical double in front of the jury box, which caused several faults.

Out of the 17 riders who managed to deliver a clear round, Roger-Yves Bost believed for a long time that victory was his. Starting 15th, the Frenchman and his partner Equine America Ballerine du Vilpion set a strong leading time of 60.11 seconds, taking the provisional lead.

However, Belgium’s Rik Hemeryck had other plans. In the saddle of Navarro van Het Eelshof, he demonstrated pure speed, making up ground on every line to finish nearly two seconds ahead of "Bosty." This sharp performance secured him the win.

The final Frenchman on course, Kevin Staut, attempted to challenge the leader with Kannonqulan. It was not to be; despite a clear round in 60.17 seconds, he had to settle for third place—the same position he held in the previous class.

In Their Own Words:

Rik Hemeryck (BEL), winner of the Prix CWD with Navarro van Het Eelshof:

"It’s a great start to the show. This was a class we really tried to go for, and it worked. He is a horse that has already won at this level in Stuttgart. He performed beautifully and stayed focused throughout the round. Even though he hadn’t jumped on grass for over a year, the footing here is truly incredible, and the horses feel very comfortable on it. Navarro will rest tomorrow and return to the ring on Saturday.

The atmosphere here is fantastic regardless. There is the CSI5*, of course, but you can also feel the excitement of the French Championships. All the French riders are here, along with the crowd, and that contributes to the vibe. I may be Belgian, but I’m married to a Frenchwoman, so of course, that counts for something too (laughs)."

Roger-Yves Bost (FRA), second in the Prix CWD with Equine America Ballerine du Vilpion:

"Ballerine jumped really well. She’s in great shape and it shows, which is very pleasing. But she’s not the only one; Delph is also in form. As a result, I’m not yet sure which one I will line up for tomorrow’s classes; I still need to think about it. I am very happy to be back on the Terrain d’Honneur this year, with so many people already here today and such a great atmosphere. Having ridden on this field since I was 12 years old, it’s wonderful to be able to compete on it once again."