Olympic silver medallists land £200k top prize in Doha

Dutchman Gerco Schroder and his silver medal-winning Olympic ride London won the five-star grand prix in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday night, taking home a cool €214,500.

The runner-up spot went to Ireland’s Denis Lynch with the 10-year-old Argentinus stallion All Star 5 — the only other clear after three rounds on the final day of the CHI Al Shaqab.

“I want to thank my horse — he really is very special,” said Gerco, one of six jump-off contenders from 37 starters.

Robert Smith made the jump-off for Great Britain, finishing sixth on four faults with Voila. Local rider Sheikh Ali Bin Khalid Al Thani delighted the crowds with fifth on Cantaro 32.

Earlier in the day, Danish dressage rider Nathalie Zu Sayn-Wittgenstein won the freestyle grand prix with Digby.

Read the full report from Al Shaqab in the next issue of Horse & Hound, out 4 April, 2013

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.