Press release from Longines Global Champions Tour, edited by World of Showjumping

Germany’s Gerrit Nieberg and the 10-year-old gelding Ping Pong van de Lentamel (Emerald x Toulon) delivered a dream result on Sunday, taking a home victory in the CSI5* 1.60m Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Riesenbeck. In front of an electric crowd, Nieberg rose to the occasion to secure his first ever LGCT Grand Prix win, the emotion of the moment written across his face as the German national anthem rang out through the packed stadium.

Adding to the drama of the afternoon, as last to go, Sweden’s Peder Fredricson piloted Alcapone des Carmille (Diamant de Semilly x Hearbreaker) to second place, with Dutch star Harrie Smolders once again showing his trademark consistency. Riding Bingo du Parc (Mylord Carthago x Diamant de Semilly), Smolders collected yet another LGCT podium – the 28th of his remarkable career – to complete a world-class top three.

For Nieberg, the triumph carried even greater meaning. Just 45 minutes from his hometown, surrounded by family and friends, the 32-year-old was visibly moved as he stood tall on the podium, a new chapter in his career etched into the history books of the Longines Global Champions Tour and Riesenbeck International.

With a grin stretching ear to ear, Nieberg admitted he was lost for words. “It’s difficult to find the words right now. I couldn’t be happier with how he jumped – he’s an amazing horse and I am so happy to be standing here right now,” he said. “It is definitely my highlight of the year so far, and he’s only 10 years old, still quite inexperienced at this level. He’s such a cool horse – the easiest character every single day.” Asked where he felt he won it, Nieberg laughed: “Somewhere between the first and last jump!”

The 2021 LGCT Champion Peder Fredricson, who collected his 10th LGCT Grand Prix podium, was quick to praise the home hero. “Gerrit is a truly fantastic rider. I think he really brings out the best of the horses he rides and I’m really happy for his win today.”