British showjumpers on the GCT podium

Germany’s Katrin Eckermann and the 10-year-old Firth Of Lorne rocketed round for victory at the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Hamburg. The 23-year-old beat the British pair of Ben Maher (Cella) and Scott Brash (Hello Sanctos) to top the podium.

“I really like Hamburg but I didn’t expect anything like this to happen — I’m really proud,” said Katrin, who delighted the crowds with her “hands-free” gallop on her lap of honour.

​Ben finished barely 0.5sec adrift after a 6-rider jump-off, taking home €60,000 for 2nd place with the world number one Scott collecting €45,000 for 3rd.

“It was a tough course today — very well built and it got a good result,” said Scott.

Don’t miss the full report from Hamburg, including wins for John Whitaker, Billy Twomey and all the action from Sunday’s Derby in Thursday’s issue of Horse & Hound magazine (out 5 June).

Jennifer Donald

H&H showjumping editor

Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her role as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her around the world reporting from shows and interviewing riders, connections and those involved behind the scenes. Since joining H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on every subject across the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to stable management — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She also has first-hand experience of working in the equestrian industry as a riding instructor and yard manager.