Ten combinations fought their way into the jump-off of the 1.60m Longines Grand Prix in Hong Kong, but it was ultimately Roger-Yves Bost who claimed the spotlight. Partnered with the 15-year-old SF mare Ballerine du Vilpion (by Baloubet du Rouet), the Frenchman galloped to a stunning victory.
"Bosty" and the mare, bred by C. Legros, crossed the timers in a blistering 34.94 seconds, narrowly edging out fellow countryman Simon Delestre. Delestre had to settle for second place after finishing in 35.21 seconds aboard Golden Boy DK (by Diamant de Semilly).
The podium was completed by Johan-Sebastian Gulliksen, who continues his impressive run this season. The Norwegian rider secured third place in this prestigious five-star Grand Prix with the 14-year-old KWPN gelding Harwich VDL (by Arezzo VDL).
Only four pairs managed to keep a clean sheet in the jump-off. Sameh El Dahan followed in fourth place with the 12-year-old BWP stallion Oscar-A (by Harley). Julien Anquetin rounded out the top five; despite a fast round on the 15-year-old gelding Blood Diamond du Pont, a single rail down kept him from the podium.
