CSI 5*

France Flies to First as Simon Delestre Dashes Away with Victory at the CHI Al Shaqab 5*

Doha, Qatar – February 24, 2023 – The second day of showjumping action at the 2023 CHI Al Shaqab 5* came to an end with France flying towards first place. In the Jumping €26,200 Speed Challenge CSI 5* Table C class, over a course of fences set at 1.45 meters, the first prize was conqured France’s Simon Delestre (FRA).

Simon Delestre (FRA) & I Amelusina R

The Frenchman flew to first with his 10-year-old stallion, I Amelusina R (Dexter R x Chin Chin ), doing so in 63.52 seconds after leaving all the poles up for no penalties

After winning the €26,200 Two-Phase Challenge CSI 5* the previous, Irishman Shane Breen (IRL) and Haya (Mylord Carthago x For Pleasure) were back on the podium, but this time in second place due to their flawless round of 63.68 seconds.

Ireland managed to secure two of the three top spots on the podium as third place was claimed by Breen’s compatriot, Denis Lynch (IRL), riding Cornet’s Iberio (Cornet Obolensky x Charlottenhofs Iberio) across the finish line in 64.45 seconds for bronze honors.

Podium 2) Shane Breen (IRL) 1) Simon Delestre (FRA), 3) Denis Lynch (IRL) with Mr. Hamad Suede, CEO and founder of White Event, during the awards ceremony.

Winner`s Circle – Simon Delestre (FRA)

“I’m very pleased with this result. It’s a first win in the 5-star class for this horse. He’s always improving – I’ve developed him carefully since he was a 3-year-old. The large arena here suits his big canter.”

Final Results – €26,200 Speed Challenge CSI 5*

1) Simon Delestre (FRA) & I Amelusina R – 0 – 63.52

2) Shane Breen (IRL) & Haya – 0 – 63.68

3) Denis Lynch (IRL) & Cornets Iberio – 0 – 64.45

Source: Press Release (edited) from  CHI Al Shaqab

Photos: © CHI Al Shaqab