Doha, Qatar – March 9 – Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) Sheikha Moza bint Nasser crowned Pieter Devos (BEL) winner of the 2019 CHI Al Shaqab 5* International Equestrian Competition.

Pieter Devos (BEL) & Espoir 

The three-day event was organized by Al Shaqab, member of Qatar Foundation. It had three separate competitions; Showumping, Dressage, and Para Dressage. A number of the world’s best riders participated in the event.

President of Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani crowned second-place winner Nicola Philippaerts (BEL), while Alistair Routledge, President and General Manager for ExxonMobil Qatar, crowned third-place winner Emanuele Gaudiano (ITA).

Pieter Devos (BEL) & Espoir 

Spectators were treated to a spectacular display of equestrian sport yesterday. The €410,000 Grand Prix CSI 5* was a jump-off class involving three difficult rounds. Top honors went to Pieter Devos (BEL), who cleared all three rounds with no penalties. Devos and his 15-year-old bay Belgian Warmblood gelding, Espoir (Surcouf de Revel x Laudanum), sailed over the challenging obstacles and crossed the finish line in 42.18 seconds during the jump-off, winning €135,300.

Nicola Philippaerts (BEL) & H&M Chilli Willi

Nicola Philippaerts (BEL) and H&M Chilli Willi (Casall x Lord) were the only other combination to clear all the 1.60m obstacles they faced in the first two rounds and later on in the tiebreaker, completing their final run in 44.42 seconds.

Emanuele Gaudiano (ITA) & Chalou

Emanuele Gaudiano (ITA) and Chalou (Chacco-Blue x Baloubet du Rouet) were the only other combination to qualify for the jump-off. Actually, they were faster than the second-place finishers, but their time of 42.74 seconds came at the expense of one rail down, meaning that they would eventually finish in third place.

Pieter Devos (BEL) & Espoir

Commenting on his win, Devos said: “We had three difficult rounds today, but they were horse-friendly and I appreciate that. My horse has been jumping well for the last two weeks. He had some good rest earlier this week and he jumped very well today. I am a very happy man.”

Qatari rider Bassem Hassan Mohammed delighted the crowd with his smooth, fluid jumping, but unfortunately had to settle for fourth place following one fault.

For full results, please click here.