The battle for ranking lead in the Global Champions League continued last weekend in Monaco, where previous reigning champions Valkenswaard United edged closer to regaining their position of overall ranking lead.
Tight
Many of the best equestrian combinations from around the world gathered at the stunning setting of Monaco for the ninth leg of the Global Champions League.
Valkenswaard United took their third win of the season, with Bertram Allen (Izzy by Picobello) and Eduardo Menezes (Caruschka) pairing up to take the top spot.
“We wanted two good rounds in the second and we did that and slowly, slowly we ended climbing up and winning,” said Bertram.
Home team, Monaco Aces, remained consistent, having only been out of the top four on one occasion in the previous eight rounds.
They maintain the overall ranking at 217 points, with Valkenswaard United’s win ensuring a closing gap with 214 points. Rome Gladiators currently sit third, with 200 points, whilst Antwerp Diamonds are just on the periphery of a podium position with 196.
Double for Italy
The Longines Global Champions Tour also continued in Monaco, in the presence of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco.
The nine rider jump-off saw a double win for Italy, with Emanuele Gaudiano stealing first place with his impressive grey horse, Caspar 232, and Piergiorgio Bucci taking second with Casallo Z.
“For every rider to win a Grand Prix is good, but to win a Global Chamption Tour Grand Prix is special – it’s amazing,” said Emanuele.
Germany’s Christian Ahlmann keeps hold of his overall ranking lead with 209 points, followed by Australia’s Edwina Tops-Alexander with 169, while GCT Monaco bronze winner, Sweden’s Rolf-Göran Bengtsson, holding third with 160.
Watch the action on Horse & Country TV at the following times.