Edited press release from Global Champions League

Cannes Stars powered by Iron Dames rocketed to the top of the podium for the third time this season under the lights in the GCL of Monaco. U25 rider Sophie Hinners (GER) with Kanturo BH (Canturano x Arko III) and Iron Dames Singclair (Singular LS La Silla x Cardento), as well as Kim Emmen (NED) with Island VG (VDL Zirocco Blue x Indoctor) and Imagine (Cassini Gold x Lord Z), secured maximum points to again reclaim the overall GCL ranking lead by six points.

In the tightest of battles, Prague Lions powered by the Czech Equestrian Team took home second place as the only other team with a double clear. The dream team of Pieter Devos (BEL) and Niels Bruynseels (BEL) were just five seconds off the pace this time, but still picked up crucial points.

Rounding off the podium were John Whitaker (GBR), Edwina Tops-Alexander (AUS) and Oliver Lazarus (RSA) for Valkenswaard United in the heart of the Monaco port.

The picturesque city-state of Monaco, famous for its glitz and glamour, served as the perfect venue as H.R.H. Princess Alexandra of Hanover presented the awards. The iconic Port Hercule provided a stunning backdrop to the thrilling competition, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for the sold-out crowd

Kim Emmen spoke with GCTV after ans said: “It is really incredible. We had a little chat before the first course walk where you asked me what our plan was, I said ‘to fight back’, and that we did!”

Sophie Hinners added: “The Prague Lions put a lot of pressure on us, so we had to go fast, and luckily it worked out for us. I am so proud of my horse, and really the whole team behind us.”

The Prague Lions powered by Czech Equestrian Team retain their 5th position on the 2024 GCL leaderboard following their second place at stage ten in Monaco. A frustrated yet pleased Pieter Devos commented on the team’s performance: “We did what was expected from us, I think all four horses jumped great, and we were first to go so we went for the clears. It was such a difficult course with faults everywhere so we were hoping the other teams would make a fault.”

A third place today from Valkenswaard United have cemented the team into fifth place on the 2024 GCL standings. A double clear from none other than John Whitaker left the team fighting for top spot right until the end. He told GCTV: “It was a tough course in there today, the problem was, the teams that were in the lead made it look easy.”