Sweden's Henrik von Eckermann and the 16-year-old gelding Cantinero (Cento x Cash) kicked off 2018 in the best possible way, when winning Friday's 1.50m CSI4*-W Grand Prix qualifier in Abu Dhabi.

The world no. eight was the fastest in this competition against the clock, with his time of 67.59 seconds. Eight out of the 39 riders in the class produced clear rounds, and the runner-up was Ramsy Al Duhami (KSA) riding High Quality J (Quadrillo x Nabab de Reve) to a time of 67.74 seconds. Luis Sabino Goncalves (POR) finished third on Acheo di San Patrignano (Ephebe Forever x Nadir di San Patrignano) in 68.85, while Natale Chiaudani (ITA) ended fourth and Henk van de Pol (NED) fifth.

"I am very happy that Cantinero still at 16-years-old feels so happy and fresh," said the winner. "It has been interesting to see the equestrian culture here in Abu Dhabi, and I am impressed by the facilities, we have been very well taken care of."

Text © World of Showjumping // Picture © Isabella Håkansson