Valkenswaard, The Netherlands – July, 28, 2023 – The Longines Tops International Arena came alive on Friday with the kick off of the third week of the Summer Festival , with the final event in the spectacular grass arena, the 4* 1.50m Grand Prix Qualifier, won by Jessica Springsteen (USA) aboard Hungry Heart.
Nestled amidst the scenic township of Valkenswaard, the Longines Tops International Arena has been transformed into a hub of entertainment, excitement and sporting prowess. Eager spectators, renowned riders, and extraordinary horses from all corners of the globe have converged here, setting the stage for an unforgettable display of equestrian excellence.
As the Summer Festival enters its next phase, the excitement continues to build, promising an enticing lineup of events and competitions. Over the coming days, spectators can expect to witness impressive displays of horsemanship, where riders and horses will push the boundaries of athleticism and finesse.
With the Summer Festival 3 offering classes from 0.30m National Classes for the future generation of show jumping stars, through to the heart-pounding 4* Grand Prix on Sunday afternoon, coupled with an exciting entertainment program, the entire family has been catered for.
With the 4* Grand Prix Qualifier the highlight class of the Grass Arena today at Summer Festival 3, horse and rider combinations were challenged by a 1.50m course, facing fourteen jumping efforts over a 520m track.
Taking the win aboard 11 year old Hungry Heart, Jessica Springsteen (USA), set the stopwatch on fire with a blistering round of 63.37 seconds, a whole 3.34 seconds ahead of second place. Bryan Balsiger (SUI) and Chelsea Z finished in second with a time of 66.71 seconds, and the top three were rounded out by the young star Sanne Thijssen [NED] and Con Quidam RB.
An unfortunate rail fell at the second to last fence for Robert Murphy (GBR) with Imbeer who would have ultimately finished in second place with a time of 64.33 seconds after a well executed quick and tight round.
The top ten was made up of cross continental horse and rider combinations, with the likes of Jamie Kermond (AUS) and Yandoo Oaks Constellation, Ioli Mytilineou (GRE) aboard La Perla vd Heffinck, Nicolas Pizarro (MEX) with Mentor also in the money.
Tomorrow the action kicks off at 8am, with all sport live streamed across GCTV – tune in live!
Final Results – €26,200 Qualifier for the Grand Prix CSI 4* – 1.50m
1) Jessica Springsteen (USA) & Hungry Heart – 0 – 63.37
2) Bryan Balsiger (SUI) & Chelsea Z – 0 – 66.71
3) Sanne Thijssen (NED) & Con Quidam RB – 0 – 66.73
Source: Press Release from Longines Tops International Arena
Photo: © Longines Tops International Arena
Categories: CSI 4*, English, Jumper News USA
