New Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Live Contender, CHIO Aachen

Andre Thieme riding DSP Chakaria ©Rolex/Lindsay Brock

Geneva, 8 July 2024 – The Rolex Grand Prix at the CHIO Aachen was won by André Thieme from Germany riding DSP Chakaria, ahead of McLain Ward and Richard Vogel in second and third, respectively.

The Rolex Grand Prix at the CHIO Aachen is known for requiring extraordinary levels of precision, athleticism, and courage to meet the challenge presented over three rounds at the famous venue, qualities which Thieme demonstrated in abundance.

Of the 40 starters, the top 18 went through to a second round, with just four jumping double clear to progress to the final jump-off. America’s McLain Ward set the pace as the first to go in the jump-off, setting an impressive target with a clear round in a time of 41.02 seconds. Next into the imposing Aachen arena, Martin Fuchs – a three-time former Major winner – with his talented grey gelding Leone Jei, finished on a score of four faults to put him into eventual fourth place. Thieme followed as third to go, with a stunning performance of speed and accuracy, putting the pressure on his German compatriot, Richard Vogel, as the last remaining rider able to take the victory. Despite a faster time, Vogel accrued four faults at the final fence, leaving Thieme to claim his first Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major.

The CHIO Aachen is one of the four equestrian Majors – alongside The Dutch Masters, the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament, and the CHI Geneva – that make up the sport’s ultimate prize, the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, which rewards the rider who wins, consecutively, the Grand Prix at three of the sport’s most illustrious events. Thieme will now head to the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament as the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender.

The highlights film can be seen here:

Victoria Carles
Rolex SA
victoria.carles@rolex.com

Merrick Haydon
rEvolution
mhaydon@revolutionworld.com