In Shanghai, a total of seven combinations qualified for the Jump-Off in the 1.60m GCT Grand Prix. Only two pairs managed to produce a double clear. In the end reigning, Belgian champion, Gilles Thomas jumped to his first ever LGCT GRand Prix victory aboard his 13-year-old BWP-mare, Luna van het Dennehof.
After his win, Thomas said: "Two things made sure I was able to win. I had luck. I had the luck some decisions worked out. Also the luck I was the first to go in and not to hungry for the win. Second, the amazing group atmosphere the Belgian squad has. We are a group of friends supporting each other. This makes you feel confident!"
The reigning Belgian champion guided his daughter of Prince van de Wolfsakker flawlessly to the €198,000 endowed victory in 42.56 seconds. "I am truly convinced that the Belgian atmosphere contributes to good results," Gilles Thomas says afterwards. "Whether near or far, it doesn't matter; we support each other and are really good friends. That's reassuring!"
The pair was just under five seconds faster than Edwina Tops-Alexander and the 14-year-old KWPN gelding, Fellow Castlefiedl (Je T'Aime Flamenco). Only these two combinations managed to complete the jump-off without faults.
Irish show jumper Michael Duffy completed the top three riding the 10-year-old Cantano 32 (Cachassini). Just outside the top three was Angelica Augustsson Zanotelli with the 14-year-old BWP mare, Kalinka van de NAchtegaele (Epleaser van 't Heike).
Dutch rider Kim Emmen rounded off the top five riding the 11-year-old KWPN gelding, Inflame Go (Namelus R).