Ben Maher Clinches Victory in GP Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Verona: A Dazzling Jump-Off
In a thrilling display of equestrian prowess, British rider Ben Maher secured victory in the GP Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Verona presented by Scuderia 1918.
The European Western League of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ 2023-24
The event, part of the European Western League of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ 2023-24, witnessed Ben Maher, the reigning individual Olympic champion, navigate the challenging decisive barrage with his 10-year-old “Selle Français” partner, Dallas Vegas Batilly.
Ben Maher’s Aerial Triumph
Ben Maher, whose outstanding performance in Tokyo 2021 earned him the individual Olympic gold, delivered a breathtaking ride in the crucial barrage. Designed by the skilled Uliano Vezzani and contested by eight of the forty participants, the barrage saw Maher soar to victory in a remarkable 37.45 seconds, shaving off 15 hundredths from the already excellent 37.60 set by Swiss champion Steve Guerdat.
Podium Glory
The podium was completed by Belgian rider Nicola Philippaerts, securing third place with Katanga v/h Dingeshof in 39.00 seconds. Maher’s victory adds another illustrious name to the Verona Grand Prix’s history, where he had previously achieved a twelfth-place finish in 2015 with Kavanagh IV.
Ben Maher’s Triumph and Dallas’s Top Shape
Reflecting on his victory, Ben Maher expressed gratitude for Dallas’s exceptional performance and emphasized their strong partnership. Maher and Dallas had previously triumphed in a 5-star Grand Prix in Brussels, showcasing the mare’s consistent brilliance.
Steve Guerdat Acknowledges Maher’s Excellence
Steve Guerdat, recognizing Ben Maher’s incredible ride, paid tribute to the British rider’s skill. Despite a swift performance from Steve Guerdat and Venard de Cerisy, Ben Maher’s partnership with Dallas proved unbeatable.
Nicola Philippaerts Applauds Katanga’s Resilience
Nicola Philippaerts celebrated Katanga‘s excepitional performance, highlighting the mare’s resilience after a break following the European Championships in Milan. Katanga returned to peak form, showcasing her prowess in a challenging competition against some of the world’s best riders and horses.
Francesca Ciriesi’s Standout Performance
Notable mention goes to the Italian rider Francesca Ciriesi, securing the sixth position with Cape Coral. Francesca Ciriesi, aboard her talented mount, delivered a faultless performance in the barrage, demonstrating the duo’s readiness for high-stakes competitions.
Made in Italy Excellence in Awards
The awards ceremony at the FEI Longines World Cup™ Verona showcased the excellence of Made in Italy. Three exquisite horse heads crafted by the Fornace Giuman in Murano, under the mastery of Marco Giuman and the vision of designer Elvilino Zangrandi and entrepreneur Luigi Butti, added a touch of Italian craftsmanship and design to the prestigious event.
Conclusion
Once again, the global equestrian stage witnessed a harmonious synergy between top-tier sporting events and the excellence of Made in Italy. The FEI Longines World Cup Jumping™ Verona shone a spotlight on the mastery of riders and the craftsmanship that speaks volumes about Italy‘s passion for both equestrian sports and high-quality design.
Denisa Kucik
