Press release from Longines Masters of Paris

This pair boasts a fabulous total of sixty plus international wins over the past five years, twelve of which in 2019! Last night, Emanuele Gaudiano and Carlotta 232 (Chaccomo x Cento) confirmed their status when they won the much acclaimed 2019 Longines Speed Challenge of Paris in a super time of 60’’48 without a single pole down. A repeat for the winners of the same flagship competition during the Longines Masters of Lausanne, Switzerland, this summer. "I'm extremely lucky to ride such an amazing mare. Each round with her is a pleasure - even more so at a show like this one where the stands are packed," he commented. 

The Paris crowd were held spellbound throughout the aptly named Longines Speed Challenge, the fastest class in the world. The spectators who supported each rider unreservedly were treated to the most spectacular show The special table where one pole down is worth 2 seconds extra time goes toward an increased speed and more suspense. 

However, a clear round was definitely a bonus to score the best time to win the class. A goal reached among others by world n°1 Steve Guerdat (Switzerland). Number 13 out of 27 to go, the 2012 Olympic Champion set a very fast pace in 61’’98 aboard Ulysse des Forêts (Col Canto x Le Tot de Semilly). "I rode according to my plan and mostly took advantage of my mare's natural speed without pushing much," the rider commented. Enough to win? "I think it's possible to be faster. If I finish in the top five, or even on the podium, it'll be a good thing". He ends up a very creditable third, behind Emanuele Gaudiano and his long-standing friend Canada's Eric Lamaze. Riding his top mare Fine Lady 5 (Forsyth FRH x Drosselklang I), the 2008 Olympic Champion also put down a top performance thanks to a time of 61’’37 at the very end of the class. A lesson in riding and courage greeted by all.

Best of the French was none other than Roger-Yves Bost, aka "Bosty the Rocket" who gave it his all with Castleforbes Talitha (Cardenio x Baloubet du Rouet) to finish fourth 62’’22.

Emanuele Gaudiano double shot comes as the icing on the cake. His times in Lausanne and Paris, enable him to win the Longines Speed Challenge Series Bonus. The carabiniere thus takes home a Land Rover Discovery! He will certainly give a go at another win in February at the Longines Masters of Hong Kong.