The Dutch Masters – the highly anticipated first Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major of the calendar year – came to a thrilling conclusion this afternoon with the highlight class, the Rolex Grand Prix, which featured 39 of the world’s most elite horse-and-rider combinations.
The atmosphere inside the Brabanthallen was electric, with fans eagerly awaiting to see if reigning Rolex Grand Slam live contender, Harrie Smolders, could secure back-to-back Majors in his quest for the sport’s ultimate prize. However, the road to victory would not be easy, as the competition was fierce, featuring a stellar lineup of riders, including reigning World Champion Henrik von Eckermann, three-time Olympic gold medallist Ben Maher, and the in-form American rider Kent Farrington, all vying for this prestigious Rolex Grand Prix title.
Louis Konickx’s 14-combination course was typically challenging and technical, providing a true test of scope, stamina, and athleticism. It was not until the seventh rider to go, Yuri Mansur, that a coveted clear round was produced – a result that was not replicated until the last horse to jump before the halfway mark. This next elusive clear round came from none other than the only rider to have claimed the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, Britain’s Scott Brash, who was partnered today with the bay mare Hello Chadora Lady.