Geneva, Switzerland – December 14, 2019 – Coco Fath (USA) and Exotik Sitte triumphed in the CHF $30,000 Grand Prix des Espoirs CSI U-25 last Saturday during the CHI of Geneva 5* in Switzerland.

After a tricky initial round, nine out of the 27 combinations that entered the ring at the Palexpo Arena, for the  1.45m challenge, the main class of the U25. First to go in the jump-off, Coco Fath delivered a beautiful clear round aboard the 9-year-old Belgian Sport Horse gelding (Ogano Sitte x Clinton), stopping the timers in 34.89 seconds for the victory.

Though the American didn’t seem to be unbeatable, she stayed in the lead for the rest of the class. Belgian rider Thibeau Spits (BEL) and German rider Sophie Hinners (GER) were quicker but both had a rail down.

In the end, Kate Derwin (IRL) finished 2nd aboard Deep Pockets (O.B.O.S. Quality x Cruising), registering two penalty-free efforts, the second one in 35.05 seconds.

Ken Balsiger (SUI) settled for 3rd place aboard his Swiss stallion Heros du Roumaillard (Hickstead x Dobel´s Cento), backed by a clean scorecard and a final time of 35.32 seconds.

Winner’s Circle – Coco Fath

Fath commented on her win, “I am so honored and humbled to just be a part of this legendary event but to win here is a dream come true. I am lucky to have such an incredible team behind me at Amethyst Equestrian with Rodrigo, Alexa, and Fran (our groom) all here supporting me, as well as the equally incredible team at home cheering from afar! And of course the inimitable Exotik Sitte aka Scotty who is the best partner I could ask for!”

For full results, please click here.

Source: News release (edited) from CHI de Genève

Photo: © CHI de Genève