Twenty-eight young riders tried to do as well as their elders in the main arena of the Longines Equita Lyon, International Horse Show, for their their stage of the FEI Jumping Ponies' Trophy, a real World Cup... on ponies!
This FEI Jumping Ponies' Trophy is a beautiful event, rated at 1.35m, of which six couples managed to find the key to get out of the initial course without any problem. Six clear combinations and as many nations. Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, Ireland or France: which country was to win this CWD FEI Jumping Ponies' Trophy?
And for the first time in Lyon, Switzerland finally won thanks to Laura Andre, riding Clementine. Very moved, the young lady could not believe it when she announced her victory: "It is so incredible! I have no words. I have only been riding this pony for a year. Last year, we were only competing in the Aces 1 Tour. I still can't believe it! I have been working hard and I told myself I would do my best at the jump-off, and it worked!"
Even though France is only in fifth place in the final leg of this CWD Grand Prix, France's Jack Conlon Gâteau and Samba van de Groenheuvel having two faults in the jump-off, national Olivier Bost, the national coach, is satisfied with his troops and appreciates the chance to be able to compete in such an arena. "Above all, we thank GL events and Sylvie Robert for allowing us to be here with our ponies in the heart of the CSI 5*. All our French riders have ridden well, even if we were a little short of success in the jump-off. All the lights are green for a beautiful season 2023. I am also very happy that the whole audience in the stands played the game by supporting all the children, and maybe a little more the French", he concluded with a smile.
1. Laura Andre (SUI) et Clementine : 0/0/36’’03
2. Franca Clementine Kröly (ALL) et Karim van Orchid S : 0/0/36’’88
3. Ben Walsh (IRL) et Derryvane Belle : 0/4/33’’83
Source: Press Release Equita Lyon
