Madrid in Motion Triumphs Again at LGCT Rome: Championship Race Heats Up
Madrid in Motion Secures Back-to-Back Victories at the The Longines Global Champions League. LCGT delivered a thrilling spectacle at Rome’s historic Circus Maximus this weekend, with Madrid in Motion clinching their second consecutive victory. The team, represented by Maikel van der Vleuten and Eduardo Alvarez Aznar, displayed exceptional skill and composure, finishing both rounds with a perfect score of zero faults. Riding Elwikke and the legendary Rokfeller de Pleville Bois Margot, the duo dazzled the crowd, leaving no room for error and securing the win with a flawless performance.
Drama Unfolds in the Arena
The competition was fierce right from the start, with Round 1 seeing Madrid in Motion as the only team to finish on a clean sheet. Five teams were just two poles apart, ensuring that Round 2 would be a nail-biter. The 1.60m course designed by Uliano Vezzani presented a formidable challenge, with Monaco Aces facing an early setback. Edward Levy, aboard Catchar Mail, faced elimination after a refusal, forcing the team to retire. This early drama set the tone for an action-packed round.
Riesenbeck International and Cannes Stars Keep the Pressure On
As the competition intensified, Riesenbeck International and Cannes Stars, a team made up entirely of women, were determined to challenge Madrid in Motion’s lead. Riesenbeck International, powered by Kingsland Equestrian, showcased resilience. Christian Kukuk aboard Just Be Gentle faced a setback with a single rail down, but teammate Philipp Weishaupt on Zineday delivered a clear round under immense pressure, propelling them to a second-place finish with a total of 8 faults. The Cannes Stars, despite a strong showing, finished with 12 faults after Katrin Eckermann’s unfortunate rail in the GCL triple.
Home Team Rome Gladiators Secure Podium Finish
The Rome Gladiators, cheered on by a passionate home crowd, delivered a solid performance. Nina Mallevaey navigated the course with precision but acquired four faults. It was up to Kyle Timm to secure a podium finish for the Gladiators. Timm’s flawless round aboard Candar Mail ensured a third-place finish, much to the delight of the local fans.
Final Push to Rabat for the Championship Title
With the championship race heading to the final stage in Rabat, Morocco, the stakes could not be higher. The Cannes Stars, currently leading the overall standings with 287 points, will face fierce competition from Riesenbeck International, who are hot on their heels with 264 points. The showdown in Rabat will determine the 2024 GCL season champions, with fans eagerly awaiting what promises to be an unforgettable finale.
Updates from the Circus Maximus today at 2:30 PM, for the Grand Prix of Rome, the flagship event of the Italian edition of the LGCT 2024.
Photos: Courtesy of LGCT
