Edited press release from Longines Global Champions Tour

Derin Demirsoy (TUR) and Elsaz (Diamant de Semilly x Cornet Obolensky) delivered an electrifying performance in Thursday's CSI5* 1.45m Lugano Diamonds Trophy speed class on the opening day of the Longines Global Champions Tour of St. Tropez, Ramatuelle to clinch the victory.

Victor Bettendorf (LUX) and Big Star des Forets (Untouchable M x Voltaire Pref) delivered a stunning round, going flat out from start to finish but couldn’t match the time of Demirsoy to take second place. On home turf, Ines Joly (FRA) secured third place with 9-year-old Faylinn de Fondcombe (Lando x Diamant de Semilly). 

A delighted Demirsoy told GCTV: “I mean look at this event, there is great sport, a cool vibe and lots of sunshine. My horse he loves the game, he loves competing, he is an amazing horse who really loves his job, and today was our day!”

With 13 clear rounds from the 46 starters, it was a lightning-fast class from start to finish. Simon Delestre (FRA) and Dexter Fontenis Z (Diarado x Voltaire Pref) finished fourth, followed by Olivier Robert (FRA) and Espri du Figuier Aa (Upsilon x Ryon d'Anzex) in fifth.