CSIO3* PORTUGAL 2021 – Grand Prix 1,50m

First GP of the week and top level Show Jumping in Algarve. The CSIO3* that takes place this week and that is combined with a CSI2*, had the Grand Prix today. This 1,50m class sponsored by GARVETUR, was designed by last week ́s Course Designer (the Italian Elio Travagliati) and had 13 obstacles and 16 efforts. Out of 60 combinations that entered the arena, only 10 reached a Jump Off, that had riders from seven different nationalities: 3 countries had 2 riders each (Germany, Great Britain and Portugal) and 4 had only one rider. These 4 countries were all from Europe (Italy, Sweden and Switzerland) while Colombia was the only flag to represent Latin America. Francisco Rocha riding Lanzarote de Muze and Duarte Romão riding Calvin de Beaufour were the national riders in which we were depositing all our trust. The Germans Pia Reich and Sophie Hinners got two double clears, but Sophie riding Concordia 49 was faster and ensured the third place in the podium. The Swedish Linda Heed rode Decurio reall, really fast and seemed to have a sure win wating for her, but the British James Wilson and Imagine de Muze could still improve the time and finished the
course in only 37,66. The Union Jack (the British Flag) was raised and “God Save the Queen” (the national anthem was played).
Also worth mentioning is Francisco Rocha, that produced and rode Lanzarote de Muze (a Stallion from the same breeder as the winner) and that until the Sweedish rider enter the ring was in the second place. Francisco that was born in Portimão (Algarve), was the Best Portuguese rider, finishing in 4th place.
Vilamoura Equestrian Tour Press | Photo (c) Vilamoura Equestrian Centre