At the beginning of the week, certain experienced spectators were already alluding to the possibility of a win in Pau for world no.2 Jonelle Price. Following the success of Tim, her husband, in the penultimate CCI5*-L of the season in Elkton (USA), the scenario set to unfold in Pau was full of suspense.

Ranked 13th after the dressage test, the 42-year-old made a great comeback after the cross-country competition, finishing without a single jumping penalty and just 1.2 points for slightly overshooting the optimal time. She drew on all her innate talent and level-headedness to withstand the pressure from Karim Laghouag, who rode an impressive flawless show jumping round, before a home crowd of spectators on the edge of their seats at the idea of celebrating a 5th French win. Karim settled for a well-deserved second place, which confirmed the comeback of Triton Fontaine, his partner from the Tokyo Olympics, who was in really great shape.

David Doel (GBR), in the lead after cross-country, had his sights set on the title…but a rail on the final jump dashed his hopes, giving his rival Jonelle Price first place on a plate. It’s the young woman’s 3rd victory at 5* level, and her first since 2018. Hector Payne (GBR), less well-known but no less talented, took third place on the podium, a first for him in a CCI5*-L.

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