The CSIO5* 1.60m €300.000 Grand Prix of Rotterdam 2024 was a clash of titans, with many of the teams present using the 75th edition of CHIO Rotterdam as a last chance for horse-and-rider combinations to show off prior to selection for the Olympic Games in Paris.
In the end, the Dutch crowd at Kralingse Bos got what they wished for with home hero Marc Houtzager (NED) and Sterrehof's Dante (Canturano x Phin Phin) taking the title for the host nation.
Through the magical lens of Mackenzie Clark, we take a look back on the action in Rotterdam.
All photos © Mackenzie Clark.
Sterrehof's Dante with his long-time groom Madeleine Broek.
Fifty shades of green in Rotterdam... Gilles Thomas and the stunning stallion Ermitage Kalone on the long walk between the stables and the warm-up.
British chef d'equipe Di Lampard and current world no. two Ben Maher in high spirits during the course walk.
Sweden's Peder Fredricson was slightly more serious...
...as was Joe Stockdale.
Alberto Marquez Galobardes getting ready with Ucello Massuere.
All smiles from Virginie Casterman.
The epitome of team work: Team Mclain Ward.
Team Sprunger-von Eckermann had a lot to be happy about with both Janika and Henrik jumping clear in round one.
There is always time for cuddles...
Laura Kraut and Baloutinue at the in-gate with Margot Thomas and Nick Skelton.
Full focus from Richard Vogel and Cepano Baloubet...
...as well as from Giulia Martinengo Marquet and Delta Del'isle.
The first clear in round one came from Henrik von Eckermann and Iliana.
Cian O'Connor and Fermoy placed sixth after jumping double clear.
Only got eyes for you, Baloutinue!
In the jump-off, Mclain Ward and Callas had to see a fence fall and the two finished tenth.
Ludger Beerbaum was there to support his team, here with Christian Kukuk and Just Be Gentle.
Kukuk and the talented 10-year-old Just Be Gentle flew to a second place finish.
Harrie Smolders and Uricas v/d Kattevennen gave it their best shot, finishing third.
No one could beat Marc Houtzager and Sterrehof's Dante, who took the win with a time of 36.07, ahead of Kukuk in second and Smolders in third.
Bye, Rotterdam!
Then