Bezzie Madden and her incredible partner Cortes ‘C’ (Randel Z x Darco) added another great win to their career as they took home the Grand Prix – the Longines King George Gold Cup - at Hickstead on Sunday. After 40 entered riders had tried their way around Kelvin Bywater’s track consisting of 12 fences and 16 jumps, only six riders made it through to the jump-off. These riders being Jur Vrieling (NED), Beezie Madden (USA), Todd Minikus (USA), Jessica Mendoza (GBR), Penelope Leprevost (FRA), and William Whitakaer (GBR).

Jur Vrieling and VDL Zirocco Blue N.O.P (Mr Blue x Voltaire) was first to go and posted a clear round, putting pressure on the remaining riders although it was clear that the time was possible to catch. Beezie was next out and proved this as she and Cortes ‘C’ crossed the finish line 6,48 seconds ahead of Jur. Todd Minikus and Jessica Mendoza both had four faults each before Penelope Leprevost and Flora de Mariposa (For Pleasure x Powerlight) delivered a clear and fast round 0,36 seconds behind Beezie placing them second and pushing Jur down to third.

William Whitaker and Fandango (Last Liberty x Krocket) were last to go and they have won big classes before. The home crowd was hoping for a British winner, but also William was left with four faults today and had to settle for fifth place with Jessica as the best British rider in fourth.