Doha, Qatar – February 24, 2022 – The world’s number one showjumper, Sweden’s Peder Fredricson (SWE), soared to victory in the showpiece €95,200 Speed Challenge CSI 5*, as the 2022 Commercial Bank CHI Al Shaqab, presented by Longines burst into action at the spectacular Longines Arena at Al Shaqab.
The ninth edition of the world-class event, organized by Al Shaqab, a member of Qatar Foundation, is being held from February 24-26. A total of 98 riders from 24 countries, and 146 competition horses, are competing in the Olympic disciplines of showjumping, dressage, and para dressage.
Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President, Qatar Olympic Commitee, and Chairman, Supreme Organizing Committee, Commercial Bank CHI Al Shaqab, presented by Longines, was in attendance to witness the exhilarating performances on the the opening day of Qatar’s premier international equestrian competition.
It was the bold combination of Peder Fredricson (SWE) and his masterful mount, Hansson WL (SWB), a 14-year-old bay Swedish Warmblood gelding (Hip Hop x Iowa), who had the impressive opening-day crowd on their feet as they took first place in the 1.55m Speed Challenge CSI 5* class with a fautless round in 64.83 seconds.
Last year’s Grand Prix champion, Germany’s Christian Ahlmann (GER), enjoyed a happy return to Qatar, as he rode Solid Gold Z (Stakkato Gold x Calvin Z) to second place in 65.82 seconds.
Peder Fredricson’s fellow team gold medalist at the Tokyo Olympics, Henrik von Eckermann, finished third on Glamour Girl (VDL Zirocco Blue x Caletto I), registering no penalties in 65.96 seconds.
Final Results – €95,200 Speed Challenge CSI 5*
1) Peder Fredricson (SWE) & Hansson WL – 0 / 64.83
2) Christian Ahlmann (GER) & Solid Gold Z – 0 / 65.82
3) Henrik von Eckermann (SWE) & Glamour Girl – 0 / 65.96
Source: Press Release by Ridwan Baawa / Gem Advertising for CHI Al Shaqab
Photo: © CHI Al Shaqab / Stefano Grasso
Categories: English, Jumper News Sverige
