Speed Demon Gaudiano Triumphs as Championship Ranking battle tightens

It was a spell-binding Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix du Prince de Monaco presented by Sapinda, with speed demon Emanuele Gaudiano (ITA) and his impressive grey horse Caspar 232 claiming top honours at the prestigious event after an incredible nine rider jump-off. Talking about what it means to win a LGCT Grand Prix, an elated Emanuele said: “For every rider to win a Grand Prix is good, but to win a Global Champions Tour Grand Prix is special – it’s amazing.” Compatriot Piergiorgio Bucci (ITA) took a strong silver medal with his horse Casallo Z, with the horse’s sire Casall ASK finishing in third with Swedish rider Rolf-Göran Bengtsson.

Christian Alhmann (GER) keeps hold of his lead as overall ranking leader, still on a tally of 209 points. However the Championship fight has intensified, with Edwina Tops-Alexander (AUS) closing the gap to the top German rider, moving up to 169 points overall, and Rolf-Göran Bengtsson (SWE) just a whisker away in third with 160 points. Drop scores now come into play, with the top eight results counting towards the final LGCT Champion of Champions title battle, and with six events remaining it’s set to be an exhilarating gallop to the finish to see who will come out on top.

The Grand Prix took place in the presence of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco and other royal guests including Queen Noor of Jordan, Princess Caroline of Hannover, daughter Charlotte Casiraghi, and Princess Beatrice of York. Global business figures including Anuncio Ortega watched as the action unfolded, with a glittering turnout of Monaco society and guests from around the world. Prince Albert was joined at the prize giving by Grand Prix presenting sponsor Sapinda Chairman of the Board Lars Windhorst at the prestigious ceremony.