Alexa Ferrer Gets off to a Victorious Start at the Al Shira’aa Chantilly Classic CSI 4*

By Jumper News on 2026-07-09

Chantilly, France – July 09, 2026 – Before the clock starts ticking and the first results appear on the scoreboard, Grégory Bodo (FRA) spends long minutes simply watching the horses. More than faults or clear rounds, it is the way they move across the vast, immaculate grass arena of the Grandes Écuries that interests the course designer of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, who returns this year to oversee the tracks at the Chantilly Classic CSI 4*, presented by Al Shira’aa.

The first rider to master Bodo’s opening challenge was Alexa Ferrer (FRA). Riding Vitalhorse Fleur d’Oz, the Frenchwoman won the Demeures de Campagne Prize CSI 4*, the opening CSI 4* of the Big Tour, a qualifier for Sunday’s Grand Prix and a Longines Ranking class, ahead of New Zealand’s Luke Dee (NZL) and Sophie Scott (NZL).

Fresh from her victory in last Sunday’s Grand Prix of Kronenberg CSIO 3* aboard Vitalhorse Naiade d’Elsendam Z, Ferrer continues her impressive run of form.

“She’s progressing all the time,” says Bodo. “She took risks today and produced a superb round. It bodes well for the rest of her weekend.”

The sporting level will rise another notch on Friday with the Saur Prize (CSI 4* Big Tour, 1.50m, €56,800), the second and final qualifier for Sunday’s Al Shira’aa Tour Grand Prix Ville de Chantilly.

Beyond world-class sport, the Chantilly Classic, presented by Al Shira’aa offers a celebration of equestrian lifestyle the world’s horse capital. Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy a vibrant exhibitors’ village, a wide choice of food outlets and family entertainment, all in the unique setting of the Chantilly racecourse. With free admission and parking, the event offers an experience that extends well beyond the competition arena.