Daniel Deusser (GER) kicked off the five-star competitions at London International Horse Show with a win in Thursday's 1.55m Santa Stakes. 

Twelve of the 31 riders in the competition moved on to the jump-off after going clear over the first round track, where seven repeated themselves with clean sheets. Fastest of them was Deusser, who aboard the 9-year-old Hildago VG (Quadrillo x Andiamo) stopped the clock at 36.05 seconds. Home rider Ben Maher (GBR) was not too far behind, and followed in second place with time of 36.27 on the only 8-year-old Don Vito (Quaprice Z x Jus de Pomme). Third was Malin Baryard-Johnsson (SWE) on H&M Cue Channa (Cardento x Robin Z) with a time of 37.38 in the jump-off. 

Marcus Ehning (GER) ended fourth, and Martin Dinesen Neergaard (DEN) fifth. 

“It’s great to start with a win as it gives you confidence for the rest of show,” said Daniel after his win. 

Source: Press release from Revolution Sports // Archive picture © Jenny Abrahamsson