Tag Archives: Kevin Staut

World’s Best Riders Return to Dutch Masters for First Major of Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping

Geneva, Switzerland, 1 March 2022 – The world’s elite horse and rider combinations will gather at The Dutch Masters for three days of world-class competition in show jumping and dressage. The indoor event, held in the Brabanthallen in ’s-Hertogenbosch, culminates on Sunday 13 March with the Rolex Grand Prix, the year’s first Major of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, which rewards any rider who wins, consecutively, three of these highest-status events.

Inaugurated more than half a century ago, The Dutch Masters is one of the most revered occasions on the equestrian calendar. Since 2014, Rolex has been Main Sponsor of the event, where respect for tradition is matched by a commitment to constant innovation, making it a perfect partnership.

THE ROLEX GRAND SLAM OF SHOW JUMPING

World No. 2 Martin Fuchs had an exceptional 2021 season, which concluded with victory in the Rolex Grand Prix at the Concours Hippique International de Genève (CHIG). The Swiss rider heads to The Dutch Masters as the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender. Fuchs said:

“I am really looking forward to returning to The Dutch Masters. The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping is the most esteemed title in our sport, and I am hoping to emulate my success at CHI Geneva to maintain my winning momentum.”

Fuchs will be joined in the Netherlands by a strong contingent of fellow Testimonees. These riders will aim to showcase the harmony they have developed with their horse in their quest to win this coveted Major.

Harry Charles of Great Britain had a remarkable 2021, competing in his first Olympic Games at the age of 22, and has risen to the top of the Under-25 World Rankings. He will look to follow in the footsteps of compatriot Scott Brash, the only rider to have won the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, completing the feat in 2015.

Daniel Deusser, a two-time winner of the Rolex Grand Prix at The Dutch Masters, and victorious at the Rolex Grand Prix at CHIO Aachen last year, heads to the Brabanthallen fully aware of the precision, skill, and trust between horse and rider that is required at this level. Victory in ’s Hertogenbosch would enable the German World No. 3 to collect a Rolex Grand Slam bonus for winning two of the four Majors within a year. Switzerland’s Steve Guerdat is another with a chance to claim a bonus following his victory in The CP ‘International’ at Spruce Meadows in September.

Frenchman Kevin Staut, twice a Rolex Grand Prix winner at The Dutch Masters, and Great Britain’s Brash will be drawing on their extensive experience as they join their fellow Testimonees in the quest to make the perfect start to their challenge for the ultimate equestrian prize, the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.

Virginie Chevailler
Rolex SA
virginie.chevailler@rolex.com
+41 (0) 22 302 2619

Merrick Haydon
rEvolution
mhaydon@revolutionworld.com
+44 (0) 7748 186 833

Equestrianism’s Finest Head to CHI Geneva for Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final and Rolex Grand Prix

Geneva, Switzerland, Tuesday 7 December 2021 – The Concours Hippique International de Genève (CHI Geneva) returns to the Palexpo arena from 9-12 December for the 60th edition of the prestigious show. The Rolex Grand Prix and the Rolex International Jumping Riders Club (IJRC) Top 10 Final are notable highlights during four days of elite competition.

The partnership between Rolex and the Geneva International Horse Show was established in 1996, with 2021 marking the 25-year anniversary, and remains a key element of the brand’s long-standing commitment to equestrianism that dates back more than 60 years. Inaugurated in 1926, the event is among the most revered on the equestrian calendar, demonstrating an unwavering dedication to continuous improvement and quality that fits perfectly with Rolex’s own pursuit of perpetual excellence.

THE ROLEX GRAND PRIX

The competition will culminate on Sunday with the Rolex Grand Prix, one of the four Majors that form the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping. As ever, it will be a showcase of the precision, bravery, and athleticism required by horse and rider, working in harmony to take on the challenge set by world-renowned course designers Gérard Lachat of Switzerland and Louis Konickx of the Netherlands.

The Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, comprising The Dutch Masters, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament, the CHIO Aachen, and the CHI Geneva, was initiated in 2013 and rewards a rider who wins three consecutive Grands Prix at these events. The most coveted prize in show jumping, it has been achieved by only one athlete, Scott Brash of Great Britain, whose epic feat began at Geneva in 2014 and was completed with victories at Aachen and Spruce Meadows in 2015.

Germany’s Daniel Deusser heads to Geneva as the current live contender for the Rolex Grand Slam following his exceptional performance at Aachen in September, taking victory aboard Killer Queen VDM.

THE ROLEX FAMILY OF TESTIMONEES

A strong roster of Rolex Testimonees will challenge Deusser for the Rolex Grand Prix title. Leading the way will be home favourites Martin Fuchs and Steve Guerdat.

Fuchs will be hoping to retain his crown following a successful year that has included team gold and individual silver medals at the European championships. The Swiss World No. 4 said: “CHI Geneva is particularly special for me as it’s my home Major and a show that I always want to do well at. Winning the Rolex Grand Prix in 2019 was an unbelievable feeling and I will be doing my very best to repeat my performance.”

Guerdat is a three-time winner (2006, 2013, and 2015) of the CHI Geneva Rolex Grand Prix, and was also victorious in the 2010 and 2018 Rolex IJRC Top 10 Finals. He heads to Palexpo with the prospect of securing a Rolex Grand Slam bonus after winning the CP ‘International’ at the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ earlier this year.

Brash, currently ranked No. 6 in the world, also understands the accuracy, courage, and determination required to win a Major, as does Kent Farrington, winner of this event in 2017 with his brilliant mare, Gazelle. France’s Kevin Staut and Brazil’s Rodrigo Pessoa join the roll of former winners looking to reclaim the title, while Ireland’s Bertram Allen and Great Britain’s Harry Charles will be seeking to add their names to this illustrious list.

THE ROLEX IJRC TOP 10 FINAL

In the Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final, the world’s top 10 ranked riders compete against each other for the right to be crowned champion. The unique event, which in 2021 celebrates its 20th anniversary, has been supported by Rolex since its inauguration, and acknowledges the achievements of the best show jumpers over the course of the season.

Farrington will contest the 2021 edition as reigning champion, having ridden Austria 2 to victory in 2019. His second success – the American also triumphed in 2015 – marked the seventh consecutive win for a Rolex Testimonee in the event. He will be up against a strong contingent of in-form riders, including Deusser, Fuchs, Brash, Guerdat, and Staut.

IJRC Director Eleonora Ottaviani commented: “We are extremely proud to support this unique concept, bringing together the best riders in the world each year. As with the Nitto ATP Finals in tennis, the Top 10 Final is unparalleled in equestrian sport, producing the finest level of competition from the world’s best athletes. In 2021 we mark the 20th anniversary of the event, a testament to its long-standing success, made possible through the partnership with Rolex, a brand that has demonstrated a continuous and invaluable commitment to equestrianism for more than 60 years.”

Virginie Chevailler
Rolex SA
virginie.chevailler@rolex.com
+41 (0) 22 302 2619

Merrick Haydon
rEvolution
mhaydon@revolutionworld.com
+44 (0) 7748 186 833

Longines Grand Prix of Paris: The French Flair

© Cécile Sablayrolles pour EEM.

What better present for the organizer and the public of the 11th Longines Masters of Paris than this 100% French podium? In front of their fans, French team stalwarts Simon Delestre, Kevin Staut, and Roger-Yves Bost took first, second, and third, respectively, in the Longines Grand Prix of Paris. Believe us, there was noise – a lot of noise! – in the stands while history was made in the arena.

“Fair,” “perfectly balanced,” “definitely sport and welfare oriented.” A lot of praise went towards French course designer Grégory Bodo’s tracks during the press conference. “The course was interesting and faults occurred everywhere as opposed to a true stumbling block which would have penalized a certain type of horses in particular. Grégory did a very subtle job forcing the riders to ride forward which one of the basis of our sport.” Coming from reigning team Olympic champion Kevin Staut, second of this Longines Grand Prix of Paris, these words were certainly honey to the ears of Bodo who is very much in demand in the horse world and whose courses raise unanimous appreciation wherever he operates. “The tracks of the Longines Grand Prix of Paris and all the weekend’s classes of this 11th Longines Masters of Paris required fluidity, delicacy, accuracy, and rhythm. I nonetheless included two turns to give the competitors a chance to take risks.” Did it mean that the Longines Grand Prix of Paris was to be won on the flat and not over the jumps?

“A champions’ class”
“Hermès Ryan is naturally very fast on the ground,” confirmed the winner Simon Delestre. “I did actually win on the flat and stuck to my plan as far as related distances were concerned but turned very fast. This was a big Grand Prix. Going last in a six-strong jump-off was a rather comfortable position to be in.”

“Walking the course, I really thought that this was going to be a champions’ class and that the winner would be really strong,” added Roger-Yves Bost, third of the Longines Grand Prix of Paris, the other reigning Olympic champion on the podium. “I had to risk it all, take off strides… I knew that the rockets Staut and Delestre were going to be hot on my heels. I haven’t ridden very many jump-offs this fast with Sangria. I’m really pleased with her.”

As far as final placings go, the three French leaders are followed by Ireland’s Darragh Kenny on Classic Dream, France’s Félicie Bertrand, the only lady rider to have qualified for the jump-off of this Longines Grand Prix of Paris 2019 on Sultane des Ibis, and Germany’s Christian Ahlmann riding Take A Chance On Me Z.

55 000 spectators over four days
Christophe Ameeuw, president and founder of EEM, organizer of the Longines Masters of Paris and the Longines Masters Series (Hong-Kong, Lausanne, Paris), commented that this Grand Prix perfectly reflected the sport, passion, and boldness which prevailed in Paris-Villepinte over the weekend. “This 100% French podium is the perfect conclusion. An event like ours must absolutely serve the sport and keep bringing on to new fans the best showjumping has to offer. During this weekend, we have experienced historical moments and kept our good spirits despite external constraint. We also innovated with the introduction of a new competition for the best ponies in the world as our duty is to always challenge ourselves, fly high, experience new things, and pursue our ideas. There is still some way to go and many people have yet to discover this sport which, to my eyes, is the most beautiful in the world. Therefore, we need to cross community borders and create new fans. This actually was one of the bets of this youth oriented 11th edition.”

Find all the results HERE.

© 2019 Blizko Communication

Kevin Staut Gets Off to a Flying Start in Lyon

Image copyright PSV.

Kevin Staut is clearly one of the fans’ favourite riders in Lyon. So, when he completed his second clear round in a record time of 36”15 with Urhelia Lutterbach, during a spectacular jump-off with 16 of the best riders in the world, all the spectators in the grandstands around the main arena stood to applaud him. Riding at the end of the class, neither the current world number one Steve Guerdat nor the German champion Marcus Ehning managed to dislodge the Frenchman from the top step of the podium for this Longines Grand Prix at 1.60m.

This was Kevin Staut’s first win in a 5* Grand Prix with Urhelia Lutterbach, the former horse of Grégory Cottard. “It’s a wonderful story. Gregory used to ride the horse and had achieved some great things with her. I started riding her back in June. I felt comfortable riding her right from the beginning. She jumped a lot of clear rounds. Gregory always told me that she jumped well indoors, that she was more focused. She certainly proved it tonight,” said the Frenchman, clearly moved and delighted with the win.

France even managed a one-two in this class. Alexis Deroubaix and Timon d’Aure – regulars in the French team – managed to complete a double clear round in a time of 36”85 and took a fine second place. The Swiss European champion Martin Fuchs took third place on the podium with Silver Shine (37”42). In total, only 5 of the 16 riders in the jump-off managed to complete their second round without incurring a penalty in this Longines Grand Prix.

JULIETTE FEYTOUT PEREZ
juliette@blizko-communication.com

Top Level Sport in Dinard

Kevin Staut (FRA) and Silver II de Virton HDC. (Photo: Pixels events)

Sports fans had something to celebrate this Friday at Jumping International Dinard. With 8 events on the program of different levels, the public of the Val Porée equestrian stadium vibrated to the rhythm of riders’ and horses’ performances.

CSI 5*: Kevin Staut’s lesson in the Suez class

39 pairs were on the startlist of this Suez Grand Prix designed by Jean-François Morand over 1m55 fences, which was a preparation for Sunday Rolex Grand Prix of Dinard. Kevin Staut clinches victory with style.

Sixth to go, Kevin Staut, team Olympic champion 2016, completed an amazing ride in perfect harmony with Silver II de Virton HDC, his 12 year old chestnut gelding, by Kashmir Van Schuttershof.

If 11 riders managed to clear the course, Kevin and Silver stop the clock at 79’’32, and will remain below 80’’ for the rest of the class. Obviously happy, Kevin declared, “When you are at the beginning of the start list, you never know which is the right strategy, but that kind of showground suits him very well. Besides, Jean-François Morand designed a very fluid course; he knows the Val Porée stadium perfectly; it was very pleasant to ride. Dinard’s arena allows big horses to express themselves, while sometimes they might be frustrated in more reduced spaces. Silver started with Olivier Guillon. I have been riding him for two and a half year, mainly in Nations Cups, so he hardly competes in speed classes, but this winter, he won a big class against the clock in Doha, and came second in a jump-off with 10 pairs in Zürich. He performs better and better.”

The second position goes to the British Laura Renwick, riding Bintang, who clears in 81’’32. The double winner of the Derby Tropicana of Dinard (2015 and 2016) was smiling. “He was unlucky yesterday, but today he jumped very well. He will compete in the Grand Prix on Sunday.” The podium of this Suez class is completed by the German rider Hans Dieter Dreher, riding his faithful 17 year old stallion, Embassy, in a time of 81’’56. The rider said he was really pleased with his partner for the past eight years he is trying hard to spare. “Dinard is only his 5th show this season; he will compete in Valence. I try to be very careful. I love him too much.”

Eight pairs out of 39 were eliminated or decided to retire, probably to focus on Sunday Rolex Grand Prix of Dinard.

CSI YH 7 year old: Belgium on top

Fifty three 7 year old horses were competing in the second leg of their competition supported by the Haras des M. 19 cleared the 1m35 course, but to win, the rule was also to sign the best time. The Belgian rider Gudrun Patteet associated to her mare born in Luxembourg, Crystal de Lau (E.T), managed to beat everybody in a time of 64’’94. Her fellow citizen, Grégory Wathelet, riding the Holsteiner stallion Carleyle, places immediately behind with a time of 64’’99. The 3rd place goes, with a time of 66’’79, to the French rider Pénélope Leprevost and her Selle Français mare Big Star des Forêts (Untouchable M).

Hats off to the ten French who place in the Top 10, among which Philippe Rozier and his impressive grey BWP stallion Lecoultre de Muze (4th), Margaux Rocuet/Babar de Bussy (5th), the rider from Britanny Arthur le Vot/Baccardi de B’Néville (6th), Nicolas Delmotte/Byzance de Vains (8th), Timothée Anciaume/Beguin de B’Néville (9th), and Julien Gonin/Belle Dame du Pratel (10th).

CSI 1*: They had to be quick!

On that second day of competition, the riders registered in the CSI 1* label had a double chance to shine, provided they were fast enough, since the two classes on the program were timed against the clock.

In the Institut Esthederm class, over a 1m15 course, the French Jade Pichard clinches victory, associated to Vegas Flamingo, in a time of 73’’44, but her fellow citizen Noémie de Baumais stands right on her heels with Ardoise de Gruilly in 73’’66. The third step of the podium is occupied by the Swiss Clara Best who clears the course with Bella de Preuilly Z in 77’’23. The Top 10 of this class is exclusively feminine.

In the Le Sabotier class, conducted right after the previous class over a 10cm higher course, Chloé de Ponnat has the Marseillaise played in the stadium after riding one of the 17 clear rounds of the class in a time of 68’’7 associated to Time Out (NL). With almost two more seconds (70’’65), her main opponent for the day, Axelle Moro, riding Asse du Beaumenil, clinches 2nd position, and places in front of the Mexican Patricio Pasquel Poo associated to Arcange de l’Arc, who crosses the finish line in 71’’57.

The third day of this 2018 International Jumping of Dinard will start with the Royal Emeraude class, over 1m35. The Institut Esthederm Grand Prix, support of the 1m15 final with a jump-off, will follow, and the last competition of the day in this category, over 1m25, will be held in the Grand Hôtel Barrière Grand Prix. The riders will give their very best to shine, since the winner will be generously rewarded.

Complete results on https://www.worldsporttiming.com/results/jumping-international-de-dinard-2018-199/schedule.html.

www.jumpingdinard.com

Véronique GAUTHIER / Agence Consulis
veronique-gauthier@club-internet.fr
mob: +33 672 770 600

Bruno OPPENHEIM / O.I.C
bruno.oppenheim@wanadoo.fr
mob: +33 614 422 795

Axel MARS
axel.mars@jumpingdinard.com

Inside the Dutch Masters: Friday 9th March

Kevin Staut, Anky van Grunsven (show president) and Jeroen Dubbeldam (picture: Kit Houghton).

Behind the Scenes with World Champion Jeroen Dubbeldam and Team Olympic Gold Medalist Kevin Staut

What does it mean to you as a rider to come back and try and win this Rolex Grand Prix, which is now part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping?

Kevin Staut: “It is very emotional. I am very motivated, as is everyone else, especially Jeroen who is on his home ground. I appreciate this show for all of the different atmospheres in the ring – It is amazing. It is difficult for indoor shows to have comfortable areas for the horses and now the stables are really quiet and peaceful; we have enough time and space during the day to ride our horses. Sometimes we don’t mention this enough, but for the top sport we need this kind of comfort. Back to the sport – I am motivated; I have my most experienced horse here, so I hope I can get a good result on Sunday.”

Jeroen Dubbeldam: “This show was already one of the best indoor shows in the world, but this year in particular the progress has been incredible. They have done a fantastic job; you can almost ride everywhere and the setup is very chic. It is the first time here for the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping which is something new and special; it brings something extra to the show for us. In terms of my success, this has not been one of my favourite shows. I haven’t been successful at this show yet, but things can change. Expectations are very dangerous; you can only try to prepare yourself as much as you can and hope for the best.”

What attracts you to the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping?

“The first thing that attracts me is the sport itself. And then at a show like this, with such a high level of riders, a great atmosphere and with this beautiful brand Rolex as the main sponsor – if that doesn’t attract you as a rider then you had better stop riding.”

Anky van Grunsven – Show President and Dressage Legend

What does it mean for The Dutch Masters to be hosting the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping for the first time?

“It makes me happy and very proud, and now we have tried to make it look even better than before. We are very happy to be in the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping with the other big names, Geneva, Calgary and Aachen. We are very honoured and very proud.”

What was your reaction when you were told that The Dutch Masters would be part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping?

“Yes! I think it works out well for both sides; we are happy with Rolex and we hope that they are happy with us, not just now but also in ten years’ time. The pressure is very good – if you think you’re done, well that is the beginning of the end. After Sunday we can start to think what ‘what can we do better next year. That is the only way to stay at the top.”

Behind the Stable Door with David Honnet, Groom to Scott Brash, the Only Rider to Have Won the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping

How do you prepare the horses for a Show like The Dutch Masters, and especially looking ahead to the Rolex Grand Prix?

“We have to make a detailed plan three to four months in advance. A Rolex Grand Slam show is very important to Scott, and the team, so we know we have to prepare really well. It is not just me; there is a really big team behind Scott so we all work together. Ursula is pretty easy to prepare because she’s naturally good for the show, she has a lot of experience, is a very calm horse, and loves to compete at the Majors especially CHIO Aachen, CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ and CHI Geneva. She is older now, so needs extra work ahead of the events to make her fit and lean because she likes her food and can get a bit fat! She also needs to be lean because the jumps are big and it’s easier for her to jump if she is lighter.”

And Hello Shelby?

“Shelby has been with us for six months now so he is still a bit green. He is the opposite of Ursula; he is fresher, so we have to keep him under control. He needs to be worked hard so that when he gets to the show he doesn’t go crazy. But he is good; he is pretty easy and straightforward.”

What are your thoughts on the Majors that make up the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping?

“For me, even before I worked for Scott or before Scott became a Rolex Testimonee, they have been the best shows.”

“When you go to any of the four Majors you feel history, even if you are just a groom you get a feeling that you don’t get at the other shows. I like that they are tough courses.”

“You can’t have these shows every week because it is too hard on the horses but three or four times a year, when you know it is going to be hard for the rider and the horses, but the prize is big, it is great. For me the Rolex Grand Slam is the pinnacle of the sport and is almost untouchable which makes it so exciting. Knowing how hard it is to even win one Rolex Grand Prix, to win the Rolex Grand Slam will really stay in people’s heads and is recognised and respected by everyone.”

The 5* jumping action kicked off in style at The Dutch Masters with Germany’s Daniel Deusser proving to be on top form to take the VDL Groep Prize, a qualifier for the prestigious Rolex Grand Prix taking place on Sunday 11 March.

With only three horse and rider combinations competing in the jump off, they are the ones to watch as the journey towards the Rolex Grand Slam edges a step closer:

1st Place: DANIEL DEUSSER (GER)

  • Olympic Team Bronze Medallist in 2016
  • Horse: Cornet D’Amour, a 15-year-old grey gelding

2nd Place: PHILIPP WEISHAUPT (GER)

  • Winner of two Majors, the Rolex Grand Prix in CHIO Aachen in 2016 and the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ in 2017
  • Horse: LB Convall, an 11-year-old grey stallion

3rd Place: HARRIE SMOLDERS (NED)

  • World Number Two
  • Was honoured as the ‘2017 Rider of the Year’ in the Netherlands
  • Horse: Emerald, a 14-year-old chestnut stallion

E-Mail: press@rolexgrandslam.com
Internet: www.rolexgrandslam.com

Kevin Staut Crowned Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final Champion at CHI Geneva

The current top 10 riders in the world gathered at the iconic CHI Geneva, Switzerland to contend for one of the most exciting classes of the year, the Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final. The roster of elite show jumpers who had qualified to tackle Gérard Lachat’s technically challenging and imposing course included five of Rolex’s Equestrian Testimonees: Steve Guerdat, Scott Brash, Eric Lamaze, Kevin Staut and current World Number One, Kent Farrington.

Staged over two rounds, home favourite and Swiss hero Steve Guerdat was first to go aboard his brilliant mare Hannah. The patriotic crowd was electric as he rode into the arena and despite willing the combination over every fence, the pair collected four faults.

The first clear round came from the only rider currently to have won the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, Great Britain’s Scott Brash. Ursula XII and Brash glided around the first round, setting the bar high for the remaining seven riders. Despite nearly foot perfect rounds from the 2016 reigning champion, Eric Lamaze, and 2015 champion Kent Farrington, they both finished the 12-fence course with four faults, respectively.

For the eighth time in his career, Kevin Staut had qualified for the Top 10 Final and this experience shone through as he delivered the last clear of round one.

The second round welcomed four riders with a clean sheet, Lorenzo De Luca, Harrie Smolders, Scott Brash and Kevin Staut. Rolex Testimonee Eric Lamaze produced the fastest second round of the night, with a time of 40.27 moving him up the leaderboard.

Brash continued to impress and put pressure on his competitors, executing a faultless round with a time of 42.83, putting the passionate crowd on the edge of their seats as they waited for the last three riders of the class to challenge the British rider. It was not to be for Smolders as he attempted too tight a turn and paid the price with four faults. The stage was set for Kevin Staut and Lorenzo De Luca, who was competing in this competition for the very first time and the class’s first Italian representative.

ROLEX ONE-TWO PODIUM FINISH

Staut cut every corner in order to achieve his dramatic clear round, stopping the clock at 40.90 seconds, taking him into the lead. After a valiant effort De Luca was unable to beat the exacting precision of the French rider and world number three, as he exited the arena with four faults. The final result saw Rolex Testimonees, Kevin Staut and Scott Brash, secure first and second place on the podium.

A thrilled Staut commented on his victory: “I am really really happy as not only have I won the Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final but I have qualified for the Rolex Grand Prix tomorrow also. It’s been eight years that I’ve been fighting to get a good result and I’m thrilled I’ve now achieved it, especially here in Geneva which is such an incredible show.”

Second placed Brash: “I don’t think I could have done any more. Ursula has a huge stride but is a slow mover. Kevin’s turns were much smoother than mine and Kevin was too fast for us today.”

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Dream Victory for Staut and Reveur at Last Longines Leg in Bordeaux

Kevin Staut and Reveur de Hurtebise HDC won the last leg of the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping 2015/2015 Western European League on home ground in Bordeaux (FRA). (FEI/Eric Knoll)

Bordeaux (FRA), 6 February 2016 – Kevin Staut pinned French compatriot, Simon Delestre, into runner-up spot at the nail-biting last leg of the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping 2015/2015 Western European League in Bordeaux (FRA). It was Staut’s first major victory for some time, and it was achieved by a brilliant performance from the 35-year-old rider and his 15-year-old gelding Reveur de Hurtebise HDC who brought the packed stadium of spectators to their feet.

With 17 through to the jump-off, and huge tension in the air as riders battled it out for the last few qualifying spots still up for grabs for next month’s Longines Final in Gothenburg (SWE), this was never going to be an easy one to win. And the man who currently ranks 14th in the world was keen to firmly secure his place at the Swedish fixture.

“I felt I needed a few more points but normally I’m not really fast with this horse, and the last time we won a 5-Star Grand Prix was in Monte Carlo five years ago! But he has been fantastic here in Bordeaux and everything went great for us in the jump-off,” said Staut, who added that tonight’s victory is a real confidence-booster for the remainder of this Olympic year.

Surprise exit

Pius Schwizer and PSG Future, winners at the penultimate leg of the series on home ground in Zurich (SUI) last Sunday, made a surprise exit from the competition following a mistake at the first element of the influential triple combination, fence six in the first round. But 17 took on the jump-off course designed by Italy’s Uliano Vezzani, and it was as clever as it gets, with control, balance, pace and accuracy all put to the ultimate test.

Starting out over a big oxer, most rode a seven-stride pattern to the following oxer before turning left-handed to yet another which was formerly the second obstacle on the track. And Britain’s Laura Renwick snatched the early lead with Bintang ll when turning sharp right-handed to the fourth jump on this course, the vertical at fence eight which was followed by the tricky double, oxer-to-vertical, at nine. Turning right again horses needed to angle the next oxer, fence 10, before taking a long run to the vertical at 12 and finally making another long gallop to the closing Longines oxer. Second against the clock, Renwick set the target in 42.35 seconds, and although this was clearly a beatable time it was always going to be competitive.

Smoothest of rides

Three horses later, three-time FEI World Cup™ Jumping champion Marcus Ehning went out in front when bringing the spectacular grey stallion, Cornado NRW, home in 41.97 seconds with the smoothest of rides. Ireland’s Denis Lynch and All Star slotted in behind the German with a lovely tour in 42.03 when seventh into the ring, but both were overtaken by a great round from Australia’s Edwina Tops-Alexander who never broke the rhythm with Caretina de Joter to cruise into temporary runner-up position in 40.90 seconds when next to go. However, Staut really raised the bar, and almost lifted the roof off the Bordeaux stadium, when galloping home with the clock showing 39.86 seconds to take the lead.

His partner and team-mate, Penelope Leprevost, looked set to oust him when taking a stride out between the first two fences with Vagabond de Pomme. But fence 10 hit the floor for four faults, so the darling of the French crowd had to settle for eighth place in the final analysis despite producing the fastest jump-off time of 39.30.

There were just three left to run now, including two more from the host nation, and Patrice Delaveau and Lacrimoso looked set to rejig the leaderboard until clipping the penultimate vertical in 39.89 seconds. Dutch star, Mikael van der Vleuten, took a more cautious tour with the ever-reliable VDL Group Verdi to post a clear in 44.11 seconds when second-last into the ring, but Staut’s biggest threat was last man Delestre who, like Leprevost, rode six strides between the first two fences but who seemed to run a little wide on the turn that followed. The French rider who currently holds the no. 2 spot in the Longines rankings and who is seriously threatening world no 1, Britain’s Scott Brash, left all the timber intact but had to settle for runner-up spot when stopping the timers in 40.74 seconds with Qlassic Bois Margot.

Slightest error

“When there are so many in the jump-off you are quickly knocked out by the slightest error,” Delestre pointed out at the post competition press conference. Individual bronze medallist at the FEI European Championships in Aachen (GER) last summer he has, however, finished second on the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping 2015/2016 Western European League, behind Germany’s Christian Ahlmann in pole position, and has the Gothenburg Final clearly in his sights.

As does winner Staut, who reflected on his victory. “It’s been such a long time since I’ve been at a press conference I was beginning to forget what it is like! And it has been a long time since I have won anything big; 2015 was not a good year for me,” he pointed out.

Officially retired

His brilliant mare, Silvana, will be officially retired in Bordeaux on Sunday and her retirement marks a turning point for the French rider. “I have had many good wins in my career including the World Cup here in Bordeaux four years ago with Silvana, but now she is out of competition and it’s all a new deal for me. This win is a good thing for the Olympic season though, and I’m delighted for my horse (Reveur de Hurtebise); he is 15 years old but we make a good team together; we have a strong connection,” he said. Reveur will enjoy a two-month break now, and Staut is looking at his options of other horses for the Longines Final. “It will be either For Joy or Qurack – I’m not sure yet,” he said tonight.

Staut also talked with some emotion about what Silvana’s retirement means to him. “She had a great season last year and we decided not to do another one; she has done so much for me and we have so much respect for her – the time seems right just now,” he said. But the great 17-year-old grey mare will still be very much part of his life. “She stays in my stable and I will still ride her every day. It will be difficult to find another horse who could take her place in my heart. She can now look forward to a quiet life and a quiet home, and we will have many more happy days ahead of us!” he added.

For further information on the eleventh and last qualifying leg of the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping 2015/2016 Western European League Leipzig (GER), visit www.jumping-bordeaux.com or contact Press Officer Pascal Renauldon, info@rbpresse.com, +33 (6) 08 75 94 07.

The Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final 2016 will take place in Gothenburg (SWE) from 23 to 28 March. For details of the Swedish fixture, check out www.gothenburghorseshow.com or contact Press Officer Lotta Amnestal, lotta.amnestal@ridsport.se, +46 709 79 56 35.

Full result here.

Facts and Figures:

Bordeaux in France staged the eleventh and last qualifying round of the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping 2015/2016 Western European League.

This was the first time for the French fixture to stage the last leg of the Western European League series.

French riders dominated, with Kevin Staut steering Reveur de Hurtebise HDC to victory ahead of fellow-countryman Simon Delestre and Qlassic Bois Margot.

40 horse-and-rider combinations competed.

17 qualified for the second round jump-off against the clock.

Course designer was Italy’s Uliano Vezzani.

7 horse-and-rider combinations jumped double-clear.

Tonight’s competition decided the 18 Western European League qualifying spots for the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final which will take place in Gothenburg, Sweden from 23 to 28 March.

Germany’s Christian Ahlmann is the winner of the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping 2015/2016 Western European League with a massive 86 points boosted by three wins during the season.

Winner, Kevin Staut, finished fifth on the league table.

Quotes:

Edwina Top-Alexander AUS (3rd): “The course was really good, the riders were good and the footing good allowed riders to perform well.”

Eric Dulong, President of the Organising Committee at Bordeaux: “We had 6,800 spectators – we had increased capacity this year and still sold out so we are very happy about that!”

Uliano Vezzani, Course Designer (when asked about having 17 horses in the jump-off): “Sometimes you get four or five more than you planned and sometimes four or five less; that’s the way it goes.”

Full standings here.

Social media: #FEIWorldCupWEL

Rider biographies: view online and download from http://www.fei.org/bios.

By Louise Parkes

Media Contacts:

At Bordeaux:

Pascal Renauldon
Press Officer
info@rbpresse.com
+33 (6) 08 75 94 07

At FEI:

Ruth Grundy
Manager Press Relations
Email: ruth.grundy@fei.org
Tel: +41 787 506 145

Grania Willis
Director Press Relations
grania.willis@fei.org
+41 787 506 142

Kevin Staut Claims Victory in the Inaugural Rolex Grand Prix at Indoor Brabant

Sunday 23 March 2014: Rolex Testimonee Kevin Staut, riding his 14 year old mare Silvana HDC, today claimed victory by the narrowest of margins in the inaugural Rolex Grand Prix at the Indoor Brabant in The Netherlands. Only 0.01 seconds separated the Frenchman from Germany’s Marco Kutscher in second, with Penelope Leprovost in third place.

Course designer Louis Konikkx laid out a track which looked for power and control from the horse and rider combinations, and from a starting line-up which included 14 of the World’s Top 20 riders, only five responded to his challenge by going clear and into the jump-off. The capacity crowd of 8,500 enthralled spectators were then given a demonstration of why victory in the sport of Show Jumping can come down to the wire.

Penelope Leprovost, riding Nice Stephanie, was first to go in the jump-off, and went clear for the second time in the competition; her time of 43.11 seconds set the benchmark. Kevin Staut was 2nd into the arena, and a wry smile spread across Penelope’s face as he bettered her time by 0.15 seconds. Great Britain’s Joe Clee and Bertram Allen from Ireland both dropped poles, so it was all down to Marco Kutscher and Cornet’s Cristallo, who was the final rider into the ring.

Marco was fast around the course, and time seemed to stand still after he cleared the final Rolex obstacle. However, as Marco’s time appeared on the big screen Kevin realised victory was his and a huge smile and a raised arm acknowledged the cheers of celebration from the large crowd.

Now in its 47th year, Indoor Brabant is much loved by the top riders and Dutch equestrian fans alike.

Commenting on the show, Kevin said, “Indoor Brabant has history and we need shows like this one, Aachen, Spruce Meadows and Geneva. The riders feel it and want to come back to these shows. When you go into a ring like Indoor Brabant, you can feel the history and the crowds stay late every night to watch the top sport that this show delivers.”

2014 is the first year of a new partnership between Indoor Brabant and Rolex, and strengthens the show’s position as one of the top indoor competitions in the world.

Show president Gerrit-Jan Swinkels said, “Sport has been the big winner over the last few days, and that has always been the intention of this show. We thank our sponsors and particularly Rolex, who have given us the opportunity to make things extra special this year and into the future.”

Rolex is a partner to some of the greatest equestrian shows in the world, including the three Majors; CHIO Aachen, the Spruce Meadows Masters and CHI Geneva. These great shows also form the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping which is the first global initiative to reward the outstanding rider who wins the Grand Prix at each show in succession.

Website
www.rolex.com

Rolex Equestrian Press Room
equestrianismpressroom.rolex.com

Revolution Sports + Entertainment
Rod Kohler
rod@revolutionsports.co.uk
+44 7770 647 662
www.revolutionsports.co.uk

Kevin Staut Travels to Cambodia as JustWorld International Ambassador

Jessica Newman (left) and Kevin Staut prepare for an interview with Equidia.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia – “I am going to take a break,” Kevin Staut announced at the end of September, “…and I am staying away from show jumping arenas this fall.” Truth be told, his ‘break’ is only relative to show jumping. The French rider flew to Phnom Penh, Cambodia on October 4 where he will visit two schools (Stung Mean Chey and Borey Keila) supported by JustWorld International, an organization for which he has been a Rider Ambassador since 2007. This trip also coincides with the launch of JustWorld’s new Give 4 Good Campaign for which the rider has become the representative of the “Education in Cambodia” cause.

“This four-day trip has been scheduled for a long time and is in direct line with Staut’s long-term involvement with JustWorld International,” a supporter reaffirmed last spring.

“As an Ambassador for JustWorld International, I now feel ready to do more than just donate a percentage of the prize-money I’ve won in competition,” said Staut.

In Phnom Penh, Staut will meet children at two schools that welcome roughly 830 pupils and their families in a place located not far from a slum. The rider will interact with the school children, participate in their classes, and share his experiences as a sportsman. He will also meet the volunteers who work at this project on a daily basis and interact with them, but above all, learn from them.

Equidia TV will accompany Kevin and the JustWorld International team to visit the project in Cambodia and help raise awareness in the equestrian community. Kevin explains, “Equidia is the ideal media partner to make people aware of the organization and its activities.” Equidia will film Staut during his visit in Phnom Penh and broadcast the report on Equidia Life this fall.

Photo By: Agence R&B Presse/Pascal Renauldon
Photo By: Agence R&B Presse/Pascal Renauldon

For the 2009 European Champion this trip will be emotional as his sister, Jade, will accompany him to visit the project. “Jade was adopted when she was 6 months old. She was born in Phnom Penh, but she has never been back there since she first arrived in France. I am very much looking forward to experiencing this trip with her,” said Staut.

For JustWorld International, Staut’s visit to the project in Cambodia is yet another display of his involvement with the cause and of his invaluable support. Jessica Newman, Founder and Executive Director of JustWorld International, explains that “Kevin’s further involvement and his visit to the project in Cambodia brings his support to a new level. Equidia will provide us with an exceptional means to raising awareness in the equestrian community. This visit and the report showcased on Equidia Life will contribute to increased awareness for JustWorld’s efforts and teach viewers about the reality of the living conditions for hundreds of children in Cambodia.”

Kevin Staut is to arrive in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on the evening of Saturday, October 5 and stay through Tuesday, October 8.

For more information: www.espace-kevinstaut.com.

Feel free to contact us for any additional information and for an interview with Kevin Staut.

Press Contact: Agence Blanco Negro – Laurence Dacoury
Tél: +33 (0) 1 47 72 81 41 Mob: +33 (0)6 18 41 30 28 Email: agence@blanconegro.fr

Media Contact: Kendall Bierer
Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
phone 561.753.3389  fax 561.753.3386
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com