Release date: 07/05/2019

After winning the classes for six and seven-year-olds, Emanuele Gaudiano also won the Big Tour (1.45m) at Tops International Arena in Valkenswaard. The Italian, who lives in Germany, had saddled the dark bay mare Carlotta (OS, by Chaccomo) for this class. Henk van de Pol finished in second with Looyman Z. Ireland’s Michael G. Duffy took third place with SIEC Captain Future Z.
Victory in the Medium Tour went to Morocco’s Abdelkebir Ouaddar with Istanbull VH Ooievaarshof. Ouaddar is joined by the complete Moroccan team in Valkenswaard. He has a lot of experience and “I try to set a good example, but like to keep realistic, we are a team.” A few years ago Ouaddar competed in Valkenswaard during the Longines Global Champions Tour.” This place is just perfect, great facilities, the stabling, erfect footing and the team is just great.” His is very happy with his horse: He is very special to me and I am very grateful that HM King Mohammed VI gave me the ride. Istanbull was a difficult horse and no one wanted to ride him, but I always believed in this horse. Yes, he can be a bit spooky, but we have become a good team. If things keep running smoothly, he will certainly become a worthy successor of Quickly de Kreisker.” Belgium’s top rider Olivier Philippaerts finished runner-up with Zayado followed by Teddy van de Rijt with Itcho van ‘t Ruytershof.
The Small Tour was won by Britain’s Trevor Breen and the AES gelding Lord Luidam. The Breen couple is successful in Valkenswaard. His wife Caroline won the Small Tour in the CSI1* during this second day at Tops International Arena. Lord Luidam is owned by Fiona Madison and was formerly ridden by her daughter. However, due to her study she gave the reigns to Trevor. Yesterday’s winners, Jos Verlooy and Kantador VDM, had to settle for second place today. Patrick Lemmen finished in third place with Jolie Fleur.