Megève, France – July 14, 2024 – In this exceptional setting, with the Alps as a backdrop and the sun shining brightly, 56 riders took on challenge set by the course designer Julien Pradervand (FRA), who had designed a Grand Prix track worthy of his reputation: demanding, tricky to ride, but always showing respect for the horses. Right from when it was walked, the course asked its first questions. Experienced riders like Gregory Cottard (FRA) and Olivier Robert (FRA) had warned that the oxer (n°2), which had to be tackled in the right tempo, the light planks (n°6), the treble (n°9) and even the silver oxer (n°13) would cause faults. They were not wrong, it was not until the 12th to go, Leona Mermillod Baron (FRA), that the key to successfully completing this course was found, opening the way for her rivals. At the end of this ultra-selective first round, only 6 couples managed to make it through to the jump-off.

The first to go in this 2nd act, the local rider, and 2021 French Young Riders Champion, chose to ensure a clear round and crossed the finish line in 35.15 seconds with 0 penalties.

The same plan from her compatriot Lucie Martinot (FRA), 20 years old, riding Brisbane des Salines, who also jumped clear to take 2nd place in 36.05. A wise choice against the experienced Pascale Vacher, Lalie Saclier and Mathieu Billot, who were all faster but had faults. Switzerland’s Niklaus Rutschi (SUI) on Kingstone B took the 3rd step of the podium 36.59 seconds.

Winner’s Circle – Leona Mermillod Baron (FRA)

“It’s the nicest of victories! exclaimed the rider as she left the ring. Cash is only 9 years old, but he has all the ability to jump Grand Prix classes like today. We only started tackling 1m50 tracks at Bourg-en-Bresse 2 months ago, so to win here at Megève, a competition I love, is still hard to believe! I didn’t see the first few rounds, I stayed focused, knowing which obstacles would be difficult. My aim was to get round clear in the time. For the jump-off, I was opener and up against some very fast horses and riders. I set the pace while avoiding taking too many risks, especially in the last line, and it was the right choice! I can’t wait to see what the rest of the season has in store for us,” she concluded with a big smile on her face.

Final Results – €57,300 Grand Prix de Megève CSI 3* – 1.50m 

1) Leona Mermillod Baron (FRA) & First To Cash Out – 0 / 0 – 35.15

2) Lucie Martinot (FRA) & Brisbane des Salines – 0 / 0 – 36.05

3) Niklaus Rutschi (SWI) & Kingstone B – 0 / 0 – 36.59

Source: Press Release (edited) from Jumping International de Megève

Photo: © Jumping International de Megève / Nicolas Hodys

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