Valkenswaard, The Netherlands – July 11, 2025 – The 2025 season at Longines Tops International Arena got underway in style today as the world’s top riders descended on the iconic venue for the Summer Classic’s opening day. Spectators were treated to top-class sport from the outset, with the headline CSI 4* 1.50m speed class delivering thrilling action and a star-studded podium.
It was American rider Jessica Springsteen (USA) who stole the show, piloting her experienced 12-year-old mare Naomi van het Keizershof to a lightning-fast clear in 64.61 seconds, earning victory and €7,050 in prize money. Springsteen made light work of the challenging course to claim the first big win of the Summer Classic.
Jessica Springsteen (USA) smiled: “I’m so happy with Naomi today, she really shines in these speed classes and jumped beautifully today here in the grass arena. We always love coming here to compete, and I’m looking forward to the rest of the weekend!”
Belgium’s rising star Gilles Thomas (BEL), ranked 25th in the world, came close with an efficient round aboard the talented 9-year-old mare Lavanoche T&L Z. Their clear in 65.07 seconds secured second place and kept the pressure firmly on the leaders throughout.
On sensational form at the moment Gilles Thomas said: “It’s been a fantastic first day here at the Longines Tops International Arena. I am super pleased with Lavanoche she jumped great and it was a fun class! I always enjoy coming to LTIA with such fantastic facilities for the horses and the amazing grass arena.”
The Netherlands’ own Mathijs van Asten (NED) ensured a strong showing for the home crowd, delivering a smooth clear round on his reliable partner Hotspot in 66.46 seconds to take third spot on the podium. Germany’s Christian Ahlmann followed closely in fourth place with Blueberry, while Belgium’s Koen Vereecke rounded out the top five riding Oilily de Muze.
With riders representing nations including Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Mexico, and the USA, the class set the tone for what promises to be a spectacular weekend of international sport. The Summer Classic offers a packed schedule across three days of competition, featuring some of the sport’s biggest names and most exciting equine athletes.
Longines Tops International Arena once again provided the perfect stage, with immaculate facilities and world-class courses ensuring thrilling sport and a first-class experience for riders and spectators alike.
The inaugural Baran Global Hunter Classic also kicked off today – full report coming soon.
Competition continues on Saturday with a full line-up of international classes & The Baran Global Hunter Classic, culminating in Sunday’s Grand Prix CSI 4*, where the world’s best will battle for top honours and valuable ranking points.
Final Results – €28,200 Speed Challenge CSI 4*
1) Jessica Springsteen (USA) & Naomi van het Keizershof – 0 – 64.61
2) Gilles Thomas (BEL) & Lavanoche T&L Z – 0 – 65.07
3) Mathijs van Asten (NED) & Hotspot – 0 – 66.46
Source: Press Release from Longines Tops International Arena
Photo: © LTIA
