Germany’s Hansi Dreher delivered a lightening fast jump-off as last to go in the CSI3* Longines Grand Prix of Maastricht on Sunday, snatching the win on Colore (Contender x Lord). With six of the eight riders in the jump-off representing the host nation Netherlands, the chances of a home win looked pretty good - but both Lauren Hough and Hansi wanted it differently. 

It was the talented 18-year-old Lisa Nooren, daughter of Henk Nooren, that opened the jump-off. After a beautiful clear first round, Lisa yet again made an impression as she rode a picture-perfect jump-off on the stallion VDL Groep Sabech d’Ha (Qredo de Paulstra*HN x Talent Platiere*HN). It was fast too at 34.35 seconds and Nooren definitely put pressure on the seven to come. The following Dutch riders all gave it a go, but nobody could catch this stylish young girl. Closest came Jur Vrieling and Ruben Romp, but although they were clear they were not fast enough. 

Lauren Hough was second last to go, and full off confidence after Friday’s win on Ohlala (Orlando x Cardento) she set off on the tiny mare. Wasting no time, the two blazed around the shortened track tightening the turns everywhere while the crowds cheered them on as they were one of their own. When Hough crossed the finish line she had pushed the time down to 33.76, taking over the lead from Nooren. It looked like another win was to come for the US rider. 

Last in the ring was Hansi and the big 13-year-old stallion, a complete opposite of Hough’s Ohlala. Hansi set off determinedly, and was pushed on by the crowds as he chased down Lauren’s time stride by stride and turn by turn. Coming down on the final stretch, Colore’s huge canter game to good use and when the clock stopped it showed 33.29 seconds. Hansi had done it, taking home the top prize of 26 400 Euro and a brand new Longines watch.