Edited press release from Longines Global Champions Tour 

Opening the first day of the Longines Global Champions Tour of Cannes in style, Richard Howley (IRL) and Petitfour vd Wareslage (Corydon van T&L x Feinschnitt I vd Richter) claimed the win in the CSI5* 1.45m Prix GCTV. 

After maintaining the lead for the majority of the class, Ben Maher (GBR) and Ginger-Blue (Plot Blue x Royal Bravour) were beaten at the last hurdle when Howley shaved a tenth of a second off the 57.83 time to beat aboard Petitfour vd Wareslage. Emanuele Gaudiano (ITA) set hearts racing as he and Vasco 118 (Vivant x Chacco-Blue) flew around the course, stopping the clock at 58.18 seconds to secure third place as the only other combination to finish sub 60 seconds.

Howley spoke to GCTV about his game plan heading into the ring tonight, saying: “I planned on the round, but heading in to beat Ben [Maher] always adds the pressure. Obviously he is a world class rider, so it’s an honour to take the win over him today.”

With a enthusiastic crowd behind each stride taken tonight, Howley commented on the support felt around the grounds. “Great atmosphere, great bit of sport tonight - it’’s great to come to these venues and put on a show - it’s great fun for all of us.” 

Nicola Philippaerts (BEL) and Derby de Riverland (Kannan x L'Arc de Triomphe) finished fourth, followed by Jane Richard (SUI) aboard Molly Malone Z (Mylord Carthago x Cassini II) in fifth.