The final jumping class of the evening, the 4* 1.50m VDL Groep Prix, was just won by Michael Greeve. Although the Dutch rider has only recently formed a partnership with the twelve-year-old gelding Commissar Pezi, he added a second victory to their record in a packed MECC arena.
After his winning round, Michael Greeve clearly enjoyed the moment:
“There were quite a few in the jump-off, but I had a favorable start position near the end. That allowed me to see how the others rode and adjust my tactics a bit. I built up the jump-off steadily, with a short turn to the double, then another short turn, and then a smooth line to the last fence. I think that’s where I won it.”
It’s a promising result for the newly formed combination, who also won a class in Leeuwarden two weeks earlier.
“Commissar Pezi is naturally very quick. He’s only been at my stable for two months, but we already have a good connection. Hopefully, we can deliver another strong performance on Sunday. Jumping Indoor Maastricht is a fantastic event with excellent organization—it’s always great to be back here.”
Second place for Leopold van Asten
Leopold van Asten had his sights set on victory in the VDL Groep Prix. With the twelve-year-old VDL Groep Nino du Roton, he came close to Greeve’s time in the jump-off but ultimately had to settle for second place, missing out by just a few tenths. Bas Moerings continued his strong form of the day, taking third place with the KWPN-approved stallion Ipsthar, marking his second podium finish of the day.
After this all-Dutch podium came the international stars: Brazil’s Yuri Mansur guided Elano de Laubry Z to fourth place, and Belgian champion Jos Verlooy rounded out the top five with Etundel de Marocy.
Photos by Digishots
