London, England – December 18, 2024 – The 2024 London International Horse Show CSI 5*-W opened on Wednesday, delivering a dazzling showcase of equestrian talent and setting the tone for an unforgettable week.
Continuing with the speed theme, Joseph Stockdale (GBR) and Ebanking set the tone in the €36,000 Champagne Taittinger Mistletoe Speed Stakes, the second CSI5*-W class of the day. Entering the International Arena as first to go, the pair delivered a smooth and faultless round, establishing the initial benchmark.
However, it wasn’t long before London 2012 Olympic champion and Paris 2024 silver medallist Steve Guerdat (SUI) took the lead. True to his reputation, Guerdat produced an exceptionally fast clear round aboard his 10-year-old mare, Looping Luna. Their daring line between the third fence and the fourth triple combination proved too tight for any other combination to replicate, showcasing exceptional precision and skill.
Three-time FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final winner Marcus Ehning (GER) and his mount, DPS Revere, mounted a strong challenge, applying pressure on Guerdat but ultimately fell short by more than two seconds.
The crowd was thrilled to see Raymond Brooks-Ward Memorial Trophy winner Oliver Fletcher (GBR) deliver a clear round with BP Pocahontas. Donald Whitaker (GBR) also joined Fletcher and Stockdale as the only British riders to finish with clean scorecards. Despite their efforts, none of the British competitors were fast enough to Guerdat and Ehning, with third place going to London International Horse Show debutant Francesco Turturiello (ITA) with Palina Keeps ZL.
Reflecting on his win, Guerdat shared his enthusiasm: “I am really very happy. London International Horse Show is one of my favourite shows, and I love coming here every year. I had a really good round today – Looping Luna jumped exceptionally well, and it’s great to start the week like this.”
Final Results – €36,000 Champagne Taittinger Mistletoe Speed Stakes CSI 5*-W
1) Steve Guerdat (SUI) & Looping Luna – 0 – 50.87
2) Marcus Ehning (GER) & DPS Revere – 0 – 53.69
3) Francesco Turturiello (ITA) & Palina Keeps ZL – 0 – 54.37
Source: Press Release (edited) by Niki McEwen / Revolution World for the London International Horse Show
Photos: © London International Horse Show / Peter Nixon
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Categories: CSI 5*-W, English, Jumper News Schweiz
