Marlon Makes Mâcon Chaintré His Winning Place! Zanotelli “Zooms” Past Superstars in France!

By Jumper News on 2026-05-23

Mâcon Chaintré, France – May 22, 2026 – The chirping of crickets, the sweet scent of summer, the castle in the background, and a 1.50-meter course with 13 obstacles: this was the program for the afternoon at the Jumping International de Mâcon Chaintré CSI 4*. Fifty-six horse and rider combinations started in the main class of this second day, the €57,100 Jump-off challenge sponsored by Mâconnaise des Eaux by Véolia. After a jump-off reminiscent of the Six Nations competition, Brazilian rider Marlon Modolo Zanotelli (BRA) emerged victorious, making the Mâcon arena his own.

Having completed the initial round without penalty, fifteen pairs secured their place in the final against the clock, a competition counting towards the world rankings and a qualifier for Sunday’s Grand Prix. Swiss rider Alexandra Amar (SUI) and French rider Jeanne Sadran (FRA), however, missed out on a jump-off due to two time faults despite flawless rounds. Anna Kellnerová (CZE), representing the Czech Republic, also incurred one time penalty.

The Finale! Only Stars & Six Nations Represented

First to go, Frenchman Marc Dilasser (FRA), riding Giulio du Ter, incurred four faults, as did Irishman Mark McAuley (IRL), who faulted at the Joone vertical, the fifth fence in the jump-off. The first double clear round went to his compatriot Denis Lynch (IRL), riding Chicago for the occasion. They completed the final in 42.85 seconds. Frenchman Cédric Angot (FRA), making his first appearance at Mâcon Chaintré, quickly took the lead in the competition, posting a fast jump-off time of 40.66 seconds.

Following him, Briton Joe Whitaker (GBR) faulted at the entrance to the double combination. But Brazilian Marlon Modolo Zanotelli (BRA), already third yesterday with his Fusario d’Boissailles, delivered a fast jump-off round, finishing in 37.49 seconds. No one would dethrone him.

**Niklaus Rutschi** (SUI) & **Amar des Brimbelles Z**

Not even the Swiss rider Niklaus Rutschi (SUI), clear but in 28.88 seconds with Amar des Brimbelles Z.

**John Whitaker** (GBR) & **Equine America Unick du Francport**

Nor even the champion John Whitaker, who managed to finish in 38.85 seconds with his faithful Equine America Unick du Francport and secured a fine second place.

A very international podium then, and the best French performance for Cédric Angot, whom the Mâcon public is delighted to see back at the highest level.

**Marlon Módolo Zanotelli** (BRA) & **Fusario d’Boissailles**

Winner’s Circle – Marlon Módolo Zanotelli (BRA)

“I had a good feeling with Fussario today and I thought he was in great form, so I chose to enter him in this event after his excellent third place yesterday. I watched the other competitors before me in the jump-off, and that allowed me to gauge the strides in the lines. I know my horse is very careful, so I knew that for the roll-back in front of the vertical over the water jump, I could turn very sharply. I think it was there, and also in the long gallops of the jump-off, that I was able to gain precious seconds.”

John Whitaker (GBR)

“It was a fast jump-off! I thought I was quick enough to win, but it wasn’t enough today. Oh well! I’m delighted with my horse, who jumped brilliantly in this class. I finished second, I can’t complain! We’ll be competing together in the Grand Prix on Sunday!”

Niklaus Rutschi (SUI)

“I’m a little disappointed because I slowed down too much before the last obstacle. But beyond that, I’m proud to be here. It’s a wonderful competition, and I’m very happy. Thank you!”