Hickstead, England – July 30, 2022 – Francisco José Mesquita Musa made the most out of his maiden trip to Longines Royal International Horse Show CSIO 5* last Saturday, taking top honors in the afternoon’s €25,500 Royal International Speed Classic CSIO 5* at the All England Jumping Course – Hickstead.

Despite being the fourteenth to go in the starting order of the 1.45m speed challenge the Brazilian laid down the gauntlet aboard fourteen-year-old Hannoverian Catch Me Marathon (Contagio x Werther), setting what would be the winning fault-free performance in 61.47 seconds.

The Whitaker came close to scoring another victory but this time Jack Whitaker (GBR) and Scelentha (Hunter’s Scendix x Contendra I) had to settle after tripping the timers in 62.04 seconds.

Alexander Butler (IRL) and Eindhoven (Vaillant x VDL Sheraton) registered the third-clean effort of the contest, securing bronze honors in 63.44 seconds.

Winner’s Circle – Francisco José Mesquita Musa (BRA)

“It’s my first Hickstead win, which feels really good. It’s a super, traditional show and it’s always important to me – and to everybody. I’ve been riding her for four years, and she’s always a really good speed horse. She’s won plenty of speed classes, but there were a lot of good riders behind me and I rode early on. My time was good, but it’s difficult – all you can do is what you can, because then there’s good, fast riders like William and Jack Whitaker. I tried to do my best and then I just had to wait.”

Final Results – €25,500 The Royal International Speed Classic CSIO 5*

1) Francisco José Mesquita Musa (BRA) & Catch Me Marathon – 0 – 61.47

2) Jack Whitaker (GER) & Scelentha – 0 – 62.04

3) Alexander Butler (IRL) & Eindhoven G.H. – 0 – 63.44

Text: Jumper News, no reproduction without permission.

Interview Source: All England Jumping Course – Hickstead

Photo: © AEJC / Hickstead / Elli Birch / Boots and Hooves Photography

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