Flying Frenchman Julien Epaillard Claims Speed Class Win at Stunning AL SHAQAB

The third CSI 5* competition of the Longines Global Champions Tour of Doha saw international combinations rocket around the Longines Arena at AL SHAQAB. The 1.50m speed class had twenty-six starters and eight of those jumped clear rounds, meaning the riders really had to step on the gas in order to be high in the placings. 

The first clear was jumped by Maurice Tebbel and the gutsy stallion Chaccos’ Son in 60.94 seconds and they lead right until the ever end of the class. It was then speed demon Julien Epaillard who let his horse Safari d’Auge travel with ease around the 180m x 20m arena to land his spot as the fastest clear round by the end of the class. The famous combination crossed the finish line 2.5 seconds faster and secured their 3rd CSI5* win in 2 weeks.

New face on the Tour this year Agustin Covarrubias put in a brilliant attempt and finished off the top 3 with his 14-year-old grey Larbraker. 

Austria’s Max Khuner (AUS) had a sensational day yesterday and was looking to repeat again on the second day of competition. He took out strides where he could but light touch cost him a place on the podium today and he had to settle for 4 faults in 61.76 

The next class will kick off at 18.00 local time, tune into the livesteam on www.gcglobalchampions.com/livestream to watch it.