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

Gilles Thomas (BEL) returned to the top of the podium on day two at the Longines Global Champions Tour of Shanghai, guiding the ever-consistent Chuck Marienshof Z (Colestus x Emerald) to victory in the CSI5* 1.50m jump-off class.

Speaking to GCTV after his win, Gilles said: “I think Shanghai suits me. This venue is incredible and allows us to perform at our best. Thanks to the crowd for pushing us in the jump off - it got quicker and quicker and was a super competitive class.”

Round one set the tone for a fiercely competitive class, where the tight time allowed proved just as influential as the fences themselves.

In a jump-off of 16, a breathtaking rollback and final gallop saw Gilles and Chuck Marienshof Z storm home clear in 36.91 seconds, becoming the first to break the 37-second barrier and take the win.

Pressure mounted as the next challenger came out 0.25 seconds up at halfway, but a slightly cautious run to the last fence meant Thibeau Spits (BEL) and Jazzy des Dames (Emerald x Calvaro F.C.) crossed the line in 37.49 seconds, slotting into third behind Victor Bettendorf (LUX) and Encore Toi du Linon (Kannan x Desir du Chateau) in second place.