World Cup successes in London

Just before Christmas there’s a tournament that’s highlighted in all equestrian sports fans’ calendars: Olympia, The London International Horse Show. Every year, just before the festivities, the British capital London turns into the hub of the international equestrian sports scene. That Christmas spectacle and very special mood in the magnificent hall at Olympia, located in the borough of Kensington, make this event one of the most popular among riders and fans alike. GLOCK Riders Hans Peter Minderhoud and Edward Gal count among its regular guests and, this year once again, they came up trumps.

Accompanied by GLOCK’s Flirt and GLOCK’s Voice, Hans Peter and Edward made the journey to take part in the FEI World Cup™ Dressage competitions. Hans Peter and 15-year-old Swiss chestnut gelding GLOCK’s Flirt were relaxed s they went up to the starting line, being anyway qualified as the previous season’s overall World Cup winners in anticipation of the Finale in Omaha (USA) at the end of March 2017. The fact that they’re a challenger-duo for this season’s title too was proven in impressive style. In the Grand Prix they delivered a magnificent performance, which was rewarded with 76.300 % and second place. In the freestyle, Hans Peter and GLOCK’s Flirt pulled out all the stops again. Their expressive freestyle gained 81.880 % from the jury and second place once more. "Our freestyle was really good today and GLOCK’s Flirt did everything superbly well. Maybe now’s the time to raise the challenge a notch ", commented the GLOCK Rider with a wink.

Things also went outstandingly well for Edward Gal and GLOCK’s Voice. Following a well-earned break, this 14-year-old black stallion son of De Niro made his tournament comeback. With third place in the World Cup Grand Prix and a score of 74.300 %, it was a brilliant start. But yet more potential was ready to be unleashed, as Eddie and GLOCK’s Voice showed in the freestyle. Just like Hans Peter and GLOCK’s Flirt, the duo turned it up a notch and danced to third place again with 80.467 %.

Checking out the arena in London: GLOCK’s Flirt with Hans Peter Minderhoud talking to GLOCK Groom Anna. © GHPC

Ready to go! GLOCK’s Voice just before his comeback in London. © GHPC

Successful trio: Edward Gal on GLOCK’s Voice, British dressage rider and London-winner Carl Hester on Nip Tuck and Hans Peter Minderhoud on GLOCK’s Flirt just before the award ceremony. © GHPC

Edward Gal, Charlotte Dujardin, Hans Peter Minderhoud and Carl Hester are good friends outside work and enjoy their time together at the tournament. © GHPC