The German rider piloted Coby 8 to the win in Spain; Canadian Kara Chad was among the impressive international field of 40 entries.

All the German Olympic show jumping horses and their riders have a connection to Ludger Beerbaum; "That makes me a little proud."

Philipp Weishaupt on fighting for the €6.5m purse: “One rail down and it is one million less in prize money … the pressure was immense.”

Riding Just Be Gentle, the German rider was anything but while owning the competition and edging his fellow countryman Christian Kukuk.

Christian Kukuk and Philipp Weishaupt stole the championship from the Stockholm Hearts in an epic Riyadh showdown.

This marked the third CSI5* grand prix win in past six months for the German; Canada's Beth Underhill was 20th with Nikka VD Bisschop.

Top Canadian in the rich class contested by 40 entries was Mario Deslauriers and Bardolina 2, who placed 4th.

The rain finally subsided for the start of events in the International Ring on Friday of the Spruce Meadows 'North American'.

Strong Pan American tournament start for McLain Ward with a win in the Canadian Utilities Cup; Kent Farrington and Jasper take the Friends of the Meadows.

CP International, presented by Rolex. Philipp Weishaupt of Germany took home the title and million dollar championship cheque