Hickstead, England –July 26, 2024 – Two British riders both had their first five-star victories on Friday at the 2024 Agria Royal International Horse Show CSIO 5* when they shared the win in the €10,000 Equine Giveaways Royal International Stakes CSIO 5*. Both Mark Edwards (GBR) aboard Royale Tale and James Smith (GBR) on Juno Rose 23 crossed the line at the same time of 63.78 seconds to share the top spot.

Welshman Mark established the quarry in this speed class when he blasted into a 6 seconds lead on his father Martyn’s nine-year-old mare Royale Tale. Another 17 riders jumped, with none managing to get within 5 seconds of his time.

However, James Smith (GBR) on Thomas Carruthers’ chestnut mare Juno Rose 23 gave him a run for his money. Despite his stirrup leather slipping off the bar three from home, James was able to stop the clock at the exact same hundredth of a second, sharing the top spot on the podium.

William Fletcher (GBR) and Israel were the closest ones, despite being over 5 seconds slower, still managing to secure bronze honors.

Final Results – €10,000 Equine Giveaways Royal International Stakes CSIO 5* – 1.45m

1) Mark Edwards (GBR) & Royale Tale – 0 / 0 – 63.78

1) James Smith (GBR) & Juno Rose 23 – 0 / 0 – 63.78

3) William Fletcher (GBR) & Israel – 0 / 0 – 69.03

Source: AEJC – Hickstead

Photos: © AEJC – Hickstead / Elli Birch / Boots & Hooves

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