The Jumping International de Valence at the Haras des Grillons witnessed a new record of attendance yesterday. In front of an awaiting and more than enthusiastic crowd, the different CSI 2* and the CSI 5* classes lived up to expectations, honouring true sport performances.

The €40,000 Prix Axeria ended on another Irish victory as Cian O’Connor rode Veneno to victory. The Irishman and the 10-year-old bay Oldenburg gelding (Chacco-Blue x Balou du Rouet) had already finished in fourth position in the opening CSI 5* class of the Jumping International de Valence on Thursday, once again imposed themselves with no penalties and an incredible time of 59.68 seconds, just three seconds early on its followers.

“It’s a lovely victory! I really enjoyed this arena, the organisation is amazing, I’ve been here since the beginning of the first weekend. Veneno is very consistent, I haven’t had a pool down in two weeks. He deserved to win!”

In this 1.50m against the clock class, the podium was completed by two other penalty-free performances. Alberto Zorzi (ITA), who finished his course in just 62.55 seconds aboard Ulhane de Coquerie.He was followed by the back bone of the French National Team Kevin Staut (FRA), who registered a time of 62.98 seconds on Gravity of Greenhill (Nabab de Reve x Conterno-Grande).

Cian O’Connor (IRL) & Veneno during the awards ceremony