Top quality riding in the Var

Catherine Haddad was the winner of the Grand Prix Special, Copyright: Cymon Taylor Productions

Belgian rider Stefan van Ingelgem won the Grand Prix in the dressage with 67,957 per cent. Second placed Catherine Haddad went on to win the Grand Prix special the next day, achieving 70,625 per cent. The stunning climax of the dressage was reached on the Saturday, when under the moonlit skies of Provence, the best of the best turned out creative performances of the highest technical level. The international jury of judges was treated to displays so synchronised between horse and rider, that it was resemblant of dancing. French rider Hubert Perring, won with 71.5 per cent on Diabolo Saint Maurice.

The show jumping was equally enthralling, with France again doing well. After an exciting jump-off in the three star Grand Prix qualifying, Aldrick Cheronnet  took first place.
Sunday’s competition had more than just first place at stake, with valuable World Cup points up for grabs, and the riders did not disappoint, with German born Daniel Deussen claiming the top spot in 42.76s. He was followed by Patrice Delaveau, and Ireland’s Darragh Kerin.

There was no doubt that the competition lived up to last year’s, and it served to emphasise Domaine des Grands Pins’ position as a world class event organiser. The centre was showered with praise, "I am very pleased with the course of the tournament, the great facilities and it's really fun to ride here," said one of the participants, Marc Boblet. More amateur and pro competitions will be held in the coming months. But that's not all - a massive extension of the facilities is planned for 2010. This includes a stadium, 500 boxes, 6 tournament riding areas, accommodation for riders and grooms, and an additional indoor riding arena.
Last but not least, also an ultra modern clinic with a horse swimming pool and rehab center is to be built.

Hannah Peaceful