Press release from Longines Tops International Arena, edited by World of Showjumping

Ireland’s Max Wachman kicked off the Summer Showcase at Longines Tops International Arena in Valkenswaard, the Netherlands, in style, clinching victory in Thursday’s CSI4* 1.50m speed class with an electrifying round aboard GRS Lady Amaro (Amaretto D'Arco x Over The River XX). 

The young Irish talent produced a flawless and blisteringly quick round, stopping the clock at 65.74 seconds – just enough to edge out Julio Arias Cueva (ESP) and Filou du Manoir (Salto de l'Isle x Grenat de Grez) who finished a breath behind in 65.86 seconds.

"Lady Amaro was flying on the grass arena and of course, it’s always a good way to start the weekend with a win," Wachman smiled. "I always enjoy coming to shows here with the fantastic facilities, so I'm looking forward to the rest of the weekend!”

Dutch rider Niels Kersten secured third place with Rose of Ballmore (Chacoon Blue x Nabab de Reve), crossing the timers in 66.04 seconds, continuing a strong summer campaign on home soil. Rodrigo Pessoa (BRA) wasn’t far off the podium, placing fourth with Dhalida (Diamant de Semilly x Calvaro) in 66.06 seconds, while Mathijs van Asten (NED) took fifth aboard Hotspot (Hors la Loi II x Nabab de Reve) in 66.39 seconds.