London International Horse Show 2024: Mariano Martinez Bastida Shines in the London Grand Prix
The London International Horse Show, an annual celebration that blends world-class competition with spectacle, continues to serve as the ultimate stage for equestrian excellence. Yesterday’s events delivered historic moments and breathtaking performances, reaffirming the show’s status as one of the most prestigious on the global equestrian calendar.
The highlight of the day, the 1.60m London Grand Prix, crowned a Spanish rider for the first time. Mariano Martinez Bastida, riding Jup, clinched victory in a competition that challenged some of the world’s top horse-and-rider combinations. Designed by the renowned course designer Bernardo Costa Cabral, the course tested the skill and precision of the competitors from the very start.
In the London Grand Prix (1.60m), six riders advanced to the jump-off, but only three managed to secure double-clear rounds. Mariano Martinez Bastida and Jup delivered a flawless performance, completing the course in an impressive 37.15 seconds to take the top spot. Switzerland’s Martin Fuchs and Commissar Pezi claimed second place with a time of 37.63 seconds, while Sweden’s Henrik von Eckermann and Iliana finished third with a time of 37.97 seconds.
Other jump-off contenders faced challenges: Daniel Coyle on Legacy had a rail down for 4 faults in 36.57 seconds, while Katharina Rhomberg and Colestus Cambridge also picked up 4 faults, clocking in at 41.87 seconds. Andreas Schou on Billy Matador rounded out the top six with 8 faults in 43.56 seconds.
“I knew I had to take risks to win,” Bastida said. “I’ve known Jup for two years, and we’ve developed a great partnership. He has a tremendous stride and incredible recovery ability, so I decided to go all in. And it paid off!”
This victory marked Bastida’s first-ever 5* Grand Prix win and brought Spain into the spotlight at one of the world’s most prestigious competitions.
Darragh Kenny Triumphs in Christmas Tree Speed Stakes (1.50m)
The morning session saw excitement with the Christmas Tree Speed Stakes (1.50m), where time was the ultimate decider. Ten riders advanced to the jump-off, but it was Darragh Kenny and Chaccossini who clinched the win with a spectacular display of speed and precision.
Donald Whitaker and Ulania 3 secured second place, while last year’s winner, Italy’s Lorenzo de Luca, took third with Promise Z. Kenny praised his new equine partner: “It’s only our second show together, but Chaccossini is extraordinary—brave, attentive, and incredibly quick through the course.”
Christmas Tree Speed Stakes Final Rankings (1.50m)
- Darragh Kenny – Chaccossini
- Donald Whitaker – Ulania 3
- Lorenzo de Luca – Promise Z
- John Whitaker – Sharid
- Ben Maher – Point Break
London Grand Prix Final Rankings (1.60m)
- Mariano Martinez Bastida – Jup
- Martin Fuchs – Commissar Pezi
- Henrik von Eckermann – Iliana
- Daniel Coyle – Legacy
- Katharina Rhomberg – Colestus Cambridge
FEI Driving World Cup™: Thrills and Precision
The FEI Driving World Cup™ captivated audiences with its thrilling mix of technical obstacles and high-speed maneuvers. Belgian driver Dries Degrieck narrowly edged out reigning champion Boyd Exell, winning by just 0.11 seconds.
Degrieck’s precise handling of a tight curve between a bridge and subsequent obstacle proved decisive. “My horse team was phenomenal today,” he remarked. “The connection we share is key, and this partnership was the secret to our success. The London crowd made the experience unforgettable.”
Markel Jockeys Jumping: Competition Meets Charity
The Markel Jockeys Jumping event combined sport with solidarity, raising funds for the Injured Jockeys Fund. Team Harry Skelton delivered a flawless performance, besting Sir Anthony McCoy’s team by over 19 seconds, much to the delight of a lively audience.
Rising Stars and Inspiring Stories
The Rising Star Championships at the New Horizon Plastics London Arena showcased emerging talents, with Zoe Hyslop and her palomino Knockboy “Blondie” winning the Cob Type Championship after an eight-hour journey from Scotland.
Another heartwarming story was that of Kay Gillam and Victor, a horse who overcame a leg fracture to return to top competition. Gillam, having faced personal challenges of her own, demonstrated the resilience and determination that define the spirit of the sport.
With more days of competition ahead, the London International Horse Show promises unforgettable moments of triumph, camaraderie, and passion, celebrating the unique bond between humans and horses.
Source London International Horse Show Press Release
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