22 combinations qualified for the CSIO5* 1.50m Grand Prix qualification in Abu Dhabi for an exciting jump-off, with 19 of them competing. Richard Howley came out on top, relying on the Dutch-bred Zodiak du Buisson Z.
Marlon Modolo Zanotelli (BRA) led with Like A Diamond van het Schaeck, a Belgian breeding product, to the result. With the BWP mare by Diamant de Semilly, he set the time at a quick 40.08s. Many combinations fell behind him until Richard Howley (IRL) took action. The Irishman guided the Zangersheide gelding by VDL Zirocco Blue to the finish in 38.94s, proving to be the fastest. The world number one, Henrik von Eckermann (SWE), had to settle for bronze with the KWPN mare Iliana (Cardento). They had a time of 40.39s.
Jörne Sprehe (GER) and the 10-year-old Toys (Toulon) secured fourth place with their time of 41.57s. The top five was rounded off by Peder Fredricson (SWE) and Alcapone des Carmille (Diamant de Semilly).
F. ©: Helen Cruden