Julien Epaillard and Quatrin de la Roque LM. PC: Sportfot
The Longines Masters of Paris is living up to expectations as a heart-stopping venue with an eye-popping list of riders. These lofty competitors would not intimidate Frenchman Julien Epaillard and Quatrin de la Roque, however, as the pair nabbed the first five-star class of the Longines Masters on Thursday, besting a world class field by an astonishing 10-second margin in the Table A Against the Clock Grand Prix.
The 12-year-old Selle Francais gelding crossed the timers at a scorching 63.45 seconds, leaving Simon Delestre (FRA) and his newly acquired Sultan du Chateau in second on 72.53 seconds. Simon got the ride on the SF gelding in October following a successful several-year campaign with Lauren Guillet who brought the horse up the levels. He is still owned by the Guillet family.
Denis Lynch (IRL) and Ho Go van de Padenborre were third on a 74.36, rounding out the only double clear rounds of the class.
Simon Delestre aboard his new mount, Sultan du Chateau, a ten-year-old Selle Francais gelding. PC: Sportfot
Denis Lynch and Ho Go can de Padenborre, a nine-year-old BWP stallion. PC: Sportfot
A regular of the intercontinental series, Julien took part in the events in Hong Kong and Los Angeles and of course many of the editions in Paris. “I love this series,” He said after his win. “The classes are superb and the celebrity and festive part of the event is a real plus compared to standard shows.” He says that he even manages to take advantage of the event between classes.
There were a handful of retirement by riders who entered either not looking to be competitive or who found a tough spot on course and opted to call it a day. Athina Onassis and Rackham’Jo of Greece called it early, as did Jane Richard Phillips of Switzerland and a few others.
In the American contingent, Lauren Hough was the highest placed of the troupe, taking 23rd aboard Cornet 39. Lucy Davis was in the very next slot aboard Cassis 54, both carrying a total of 8 faults.
Mclain Ward and Malou were 34th, Audrey Coulter and Alex 36th, and Kent Farrington and Gazelle took their time familiarizing with the arena and atmosphere, exiting in 39th.
Absolu Trophy Podium. PC: Sportfot
There’s much more action to come this weekend from Paris, so keep it locked on JN, and go jumping!
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