MELANIE CLOAREC, QUEEN OF THE CSI 2*

Mélanie Cloarec and Nora de Mariposa Pleville created a sensation by winning the Grand Prix Defender, the highlight of the CSI 2* competition at the Longines Equita Lyon CHI.

Although fifty couples started the event, the French rider and her horse delivered the best performance of this class, with two clear rounds and a fantastic time of 35'14 in the jump-off proving enough to win. 

This performance rounded off a great week for the couple. "My mare was almost faultless over the three days of competition in Lyon and she rounded off by winning the Grand Prix. I couldn't have hoped for more," said the Normandy-based rider. "There were thirteen of us in the jump-off, including a few riders who are known for their speed. So, I just gave it my best shot. I managed to take off a stride in the last line, even though it wasn't really planned." The audience will have appreciated the courage and qualities of Nora de Mariposa Pleville, the granddaughter of the champion Flora de Mariposa, one of Penelope Leprevost's former horses on the international scene. The spectators also witnessed an exciting finish. Marc Dilasser had set the tone at the start of the jump-off, completing his round in 36''67 with the dashing E2K Abricot Ennemmelle. This pushed the other competitors into making mistakes and the couple finally finished in second place. Third place went to the experienced Max Thirouin and Utopie Villelongue, who posted a second clear round in 36''75.

Mélanie Cloarec was a double winner, since she also won the challenge for best CSI 2* rider sponsored by Cheval Liberté.

1. Mélanie Cloarec (FRA) and Nora de Mariposa Pleville: 0/0 35’’14

2. Marc Dilasser (FRA) and E2K Abricot Ennemmelle: 0/0 - 36’’67

3. Max Thirouin (FRA) and Utopie Villelongue: 0/0 - 36’’75