Edwina is GCT Champion – again

Edwina Tops-Alexander is GCT Champion 2012 – a record breaking double. She was confirmed champion for the second year in a row after her rival Rolf-Göran Bengtsson dramatically knocked down a rail.

As the new GCT champion of 2012 it means Edwina, who is sponsored by the luxury fashion house Gucci, is also the first rider to earn over €2 million mark in prize money since the Tour began in 2006.

In an incredible twist Edwina and Rolf both had the same fence down, number 11, giving them 4 faults in the 1st round of the GCT Gucci Grand Prix.

Amazingly the two riders also picked up 4 faults at the same jump in the 5* class on Thursday in Abu Dhabi and again both had 1 time penalty.

The extraordinary drama unfolded tonight in front of a full house in the floodlit Al Forsan arena in Abu Dhabi. Spectators did not dare breathe as the two contenders for the GCT crown entered the ring and began their rounds.

Edwina and Cevo Itot du Chateau jumped a super round until hitting the rail on the 11th fence, tantalisingly close to the finish on the 13-fence course.

In a sensational climax to the series, Edwina's victory was confirmed after her rival Rolf-Göran Bengtsson had fence 11 down.

Edwina had the advantage due to her win in the first event of the season.