It was an all-Belgian podium as Pieter Devos stormed to a stunning win with the 12-year-old gelding Espoir (Surcouf De Revel x Laudanum XX) in the 1.50m Baker Tilly Roelfs Trophy CSI5* class in Hamburg. Nicola Philippaerts with H&M Quenzo de la Roque (Kannan x Jasmin) took a strong second place, and compatriot Jerome Guery with Grand Cru van de Rozenberg (Malito de Reves x Heartbreaker) ensured the top three places went to Belgium after the 48 strong class took place.
Ahead of the Global Champions League of Hamburg, many of the world’s best riders took to the expansive grass arena this morning for the two-phase competition. A total of 30 riders progressed through to the second phase of their round after jumping clear, and went against the clock to work their way up the field and secure the fastest time. Pieter’s Espoir was another long striding horse, well suited to the longer distances, and was able to cover the ground effortlessly looking comfortable in the wide grass arena. Smart, considered turns and a flowing rhythm meant the paring would cross the line in 32.39s.
Compatriot Nicola Philippaerts rode a stunning round with H&M Quenzo de la Roque however were just shy of Pieter’s time, finishing only tenths of a second behind in 32.73s. Jerome Guery and his stunning chestnut gelding Grand Cru van de Rozenberg were on 33.53s in the second phase, pushing them up to third overall. It was a good day for Belgium, as Nicola’s brother Olivier Philippaerts also finished well placing 6th.
Source: Press release from LGCT / Picture © Stefano Grasso/LGCT