Casas Novas, a sold-out Saturday at the CSI5*-W: Pieter Devos claims victory in the Longines Grand Prix

The stands at Casas Novas were packed on Saturday, December 6, as spectators gathered for another thrilling day of top-level sport at the CSI5*-W.

Longines Grand Prix

By 8:30 p.m., there wasn’t a single seat left in the indoor arena at Casas Novas—and for good reason: the first Grand Prix of this winter edition of the CSI5*-W, the prestigious Longines Grand Prix, was about to begin.

Forty-seven horse-and-rider combinations were set to take on the 1.55 m course with jump-off. Ten riders secured a spot in the decisive round: Kevin Staut, Oda Chalotte Lyngvaer, Christian Ahlmann, Victor Bettendorf, Henrik von Eckermann, Robert Whitaker, Pieter Devos, Leopold van Asten, Jennifer Hochstaedter, and Penelope Leprevost.

After an incredibly tight jump-off, Belgium’s Pieter Devos emerged as the winner. Delivering a round that kept the crowd holding its breath until the final fence, Devos and Jarina J were crowned champions of this Grand Prix.

The Belgian rider received a Longines watch from Elena Orozco, Longines Spain Brand Manager, and the winner’s trophy from Flora Pérez on behalf of Casas Novas.

British rider Robert Whitaker showcased all his experience in competitions of this level and came very close to the top spot. Riding Vermento, he stopped the clock at 40.42 seconds, securing second place.

Germany’s Christian Ahlmann completed the podium, taking third with Blueberry in 40.83 seconds.

Trofeo Grupo EULEN

Before the Grand Prix, spectators enjoyed Saturday’s first CSI5*-W class: the Trofeo Grupo EULEN, which began at 5:30 p.m. The 1.50 m speed class featured 43 riders and concluded with 15 clear rounds.

Victory went to world number 9 Julien Epaillard, riding Easy Up de Grandry. The seasoned French rider added yet another major success to his impressive résumé, crossing the finish line in 59.86 seconds.

The French anthem echoed through the indoor arena as Julien received the trophy from Micaela Núñez Feijóo, Regional Director for Northwest Spain at Grupo EULEN.

Second place was claimed by Henrik von Eckermann, once again on the podium with Glamour Girl after their win in Friday’s Caixabank Trophy. The Swedish rider confirmed his top form with a flawless round in 60.34 seconds.

Ireland’s talented young rider Michael Pender secured third place. Riding HHS Orchidee, he completed his round in 61.09 seconds, earning a spot in the prize-giving ceremony.

Sunday programme – December 7

The final day of this edition of CSI A Coruña will begin with the Trofeo Movistar, part of the CSI1* category. The first class of the day starts at 12:00 p.m., featuring a 1.30 m two-phase course.

The 1* category will wrap up with the Prosegur Security Grand Prix, a 1.40 m jump-off class.

Photo: Pieter Devos with Jarina J in the Longines Grand Prix.

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