Valkenswaard, The Netherlands – August 03, 2025 – The Grand Prix of Valkenswaard CSI 2* (1.45m) presented an electrifying conclusion to Sunday’s sport at the Longines Tops International Arena in Valkenswaard. As the final highlight of the CSI 2* division at the Longines Global Future Champions, presented by Lami-Cell, the Grand Prix drew a stellar field of 52 starters, including Olympic and World Championship medallists such as Harrie Smolders (NED), Laura Kraut (USA), Daniel Deusser (GER), and Jessica Springsteen (USA).
Course designer Peter Schumacher (GER) set a tactically demanding track that required precision, scope, and speed – qualities that only 14 combinations were able to match, advancing to what would become a fiercely contested jump-off.
First to return for the final round was Harrie Smolders (NED) aboard the elegant Dutch Warmblood (KWPN) stallion Jesther (Cardento x Guidam). The Dutchman set an early benchmark with a smooth and efficient clear in 41.25 seconds, which would ultimately land him sixth. Early challengers Ines Joly (BEL), Abdel Saïd (BEL), and Laura Kraut (USA) fell out of contention with jumping faults, clearing the path for the second half of the start list to light up the leaderboard.
Spanish rider Sergio Álvarez Moya (ESP) then raised the stakes with a razor-sharp performance aboard the striking 8-year-old Caen (Chacoon Blue x Clintissimo Z). His time of 38.89 seconds made him the first to dip under the 39-second barrier, igniting hopes of a win for Spain.
But those hopes were soon tested by Belgian star Jérôme Guery (BEL), who guided Haquinsa (Sandro Boy x Quintero) to a flawless round in 39.21 seconds, sliding just behind Moya into second.
It all came down to the final rider: Eduardo Pereira de Menezes (BRA) of Brazil. Aboard the talented 9-year-old H5 Kay’s Pleasure Hero Z (Kassander van ’t Roosakker x For Pleasure), the seasoned rider threw caution to the wind. Executing daring lines and tight turns, de Menezes stopped the clock at a blazing 38.70 seconds, clinching the win and sending the Brazilian camp into celebration.
With fast-paced sport, elite horsepower, and a thrilling conclusion, the Grand Prix CSI 2* was a fitting end to an unforgettable Sunday in Valkenswaard – highlighting the strength and depth of the global talent on display throughout the weekend.
Final Results – €28,300 Grand Prix of Valkenswaard CSI 2*
1) Eduardo Pereira de Menezes (BRA) & H5 Kay’s Pleasure Hero Z – 0 / 0 – 38.70
2) Sergio Álvarez Moya (ESP) & Caen – 0 / 0 – 38.89
3) Jérôme Guery (BEL) & Haquinsa – 0 / 0 – 39.21
Source: Press Release (edited) from Longines Tops International Arena
Photos: © LTIA / Stefano Grasso
