With a lot at stake, and €1,500,000 in prize money, there were a lot of feelings in Sunday's Rolex Grand Prix of Aachen. We look back behind the scenes as the jump-off unfolded in the most prestigious Grand Prix in the world.
Here Scott Brash's longtime groom David Honnet, who had good reason to smile after a triple clear round from Hello Jefferson.
All photos © Jenny Abrahamsson for World of Showjumping.
Kisses for Katanga vh Dingeshof, that ended third with Nicola Philippaerts after three clear rounds over the demanding tracks in Aachen.
Hugs and kisses for Daniel Deusser's Killer Queen VDM, who won the Grand Prix last year, and finished fourth this year with three clear rounds.
David Honnet and Hello Jefferson.
Mclain Ward watching from the sideline. The expectations were high for Ward, who had won both Grand Prix qualifiers with Contagious. In the end, the American rider had to settle for the fifth place in the Grand Prix with HH Azur.
Thumbs up from Stephan Conter after three clear rounds from Daniel Deusser and Killer Queen VDM.
Hugs on Team USA after great performances from HH Azur.
A happy Stephex team after Daniel Deusser and Killer Queen VDM delivered yet again.
Katanga vh Dingeshof and Tiffany Letallec.
Hello Jefferson, Scott Brash and Di Lampard.
The stunning HH Azur and Virginie Casterman.
Stephan Conter with his superstar Killer Queen.
Visconti du Telman with his groom Ludovic Escure, and Pierre Le Bouch.
Lots of love: Killer Queen and Sean Lynch.
Then