British show jumper Scott Brash has claimed victory in the CSI4* Grand Prix of Gijón in grand style. In a highly tense battle over a challenging 1.60m course, Brash and the nine-year-old mare Hello Folie (by Luidam × dam sire Diamant de Semilly) remained untouchable across two clear rounds. Clocking a phenomenal time of 50.30 seconds in the second round, he relegated Brazil's Yuri Mansur and fellow Brit Millie Allen to the remaining podium spots.
Gijón, Spain, provided the backdrop for top-tier equestrian sport. The course designer set up a technical and demanding 1.60m track requiring absolute precision, scope, and control. Out of a strong international field, only a few combinations managed to keep a clean sheet in the opening round.
Scott Brash once again demonstrated why he ranks among the world's absolute elite. Riding Hello Folie (Selle Français, bred by C. Gouin), he delivered a tactical first round. In the decisive second round, the Brit applied maximum pressure on the competition by not only going clear, but also stopping the clock at an unbeatable 50.30 seconds.
Silver went to the ever-combative Brazilian Yuri Mansur. On the experienced gelding Qh Alfons Santo Antonio (by Aromats × dam sire Sir Donnerhall, bred by Rebala Stables), Mansur proved he is in top form. He also posted a double-clear performance, but had to yield to Brash with a second-round time of 53.77 seconds.
The third step of the podium was claimed by Britain's Millie Allen. She piloted the BWP mare Quickly D vh Ijzerenlindehof (by Quint vh Maarlo Z × dam sire Nevado van de Rostal, bred by Jean Jonkmans) to a superb double-clear in 56.50 seconds.
Germany secured a solid fourth place thanks to Janne Friederike Meyer-Zimmermann aboard Van Tastic (by Van Halen Z × dam sire Conthargos), who finished double-clear in 57.82 seconds. Mexico's Paola Amilibia rounded out the top five with Quinley (by Quintero × dam sire Calato), recovering from 4 penalties in the first round to deliver a clear effort in round two.
