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Marcus Ehning Wins the Rolex Grand Prix of Aachen

Marcus Ehning riding Pret A Tout (Photo: Rolex/Kit Houghton)

Germany’s Marcus Ehning gave the 40,000 patriotic spectators a reason to celebrate at CHIO Aachen, as he clinched the prestigious Rolex Grand Prix title aboard his 15-year-old chestnut gelding, Pret A Tout.

Although this is the fourth Major Ehning has won, his Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping journey has only just begun, as he becomes the new live contender. We spoke to Ehning following his incredible performance, which left him two seconds clear of his closest rival, Portugal’s Luciana Diniz:

What were your thoughts when you walked the course?

I thought it was a really good course. I thought there would be about 10 clears and, in the end, there were 11. There wasn’t anywhere specifically that looked too challenging or that my horse couldn’t jump, but my horse has performed amazingly in past years here, and he gave me a confidence that I could really trust him and believe that we could go all the way. He is a very flexible horse and I am very lucky to be riding him.

Which round was more difficult, the first or second?

For me the first round was more difficult; a few times I didn’t have the perfect rhythm that I wanted but I was very happy to be clear. The second round was amazing; from the first jump to the last, we were fast but there was a lot of control and I really enjoyed it.

Where you nervous watching Luciana’s round?

I was nervous watching Luciana; she is a good rider and has come close to winning here a few times.

You are now the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender; will you be competing at the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ in September?

Before this win today I was only focusing on the World Equestrian Games, but obviously now this is a very different situation. I need to speak to my team and my owners to work out a strategy and think about what we do.

© 2018 Rolex – Rolex Grand Slam

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