Phenomenal Horsepower Lines Up Ahead of GC Valkenswaard

A phenomenal line-up of incredible horsepower has been revealed today at Tops International Arena ahead of the CSI5* GC Valkenswaard this weekend, with many of the world's best riders bringing a host of equine stars to compete at this high calibre event. 57 riders from 18 different nations are entered in these top-level competitions, bringing a total of 107 horses in a bid for podium placings in this unique atmosphere. 

Today sees a warm-up class for the combinations to get a feel for the stunning main arena, allowing the horses to acclimatise to their surroundings before the competition kicks off tomorrow (Friday) with two CSI5* competitions.

Pieter Devos (BEL) brings his talented mares Claire Z and Jade vd Bisschop to this week's CSI5* competitions, two top prospects sure to make their mark on the tough courses. Olivier Philippaerts (BEL) brings his stalwart H&M Legend of Love, while Jos Verlooy will pilot Igor in the feature classes. Edwina Tops-Alexander (AUS) partners her striking mare Identity Vitseroel this weekend, and Marlon Módolo Zanotelli (BRA) will look to continue his recent run of good form with VDL Edgar M.

LGCT Grand Prix of Doha 2020 Champion Daniel Deusser (GER) brings the consistent Calisto Blue this weekend, while his compatriot Marcus Ehning (GER) rides fan favourite Funky Fred in a bid for glory. Maikel van der Vleuten will look to replicate his success from the 2019 LGCT Grand Prix of Valkenswaard, riding both Beauville Z and Dana Blue in a stunning combination of top talent. 

Simon Delestre (FRA) also brings two formidable horses to fight for top honours, riding Berlux Z and Hermes Ryan. British riders Scott Brash (GBR) and Emily Moffitt (GBR) also bring their top horses to the spectacular event, with Scott choosing Hello Jefferson and Hello Mr President, and Emily bringing Carlson and Winning Good. Christian Ahlmann (GER) is another rider sure to make a strong bid for podium placings, riding his popular horse Take A Chance on Me Z. 

Other names to look out for are Malin Baryard-Johnsson's (SWE) H&M Indiana, Peder Fredricson's (SWE) H&M Christian K and Martin Fuchs (SUI) New York 2019 podium finisher The Sinner. 

The action kicks off tomorrow, Friday 11 September with the CSI5* 1.45m two-phase at 14:15 CET, followed by the CSI 5* 1.50/1.55m at 17:00 CET. This second CSI5* class acts as the qualifier for Saturday's GC Grand Prix of Valkenswaard Presented by Tennor, and it will be all to play for as the riders battle to be in the top 35 to qualify for the Saturday's stunning feature competition. All the action will be streamed live on GCTV! For the full schedule click here and to watch on GCTV click here.