Marc and Dante close to victory in Valkenswaard

The CSI4* of Valkenswaard had the right scenario for Sterrehof’s Dante N.O.P. and Marc, up untill the very last obstacle. During her opening class on Friday, Dante showed an excellent form on the grass footing of the Tops International Arena. She finished without a jumping fault, but with a single time fault.

Pole position

The good feeling she gave Marc was also present during the Grand Prix on Sunday. Our top duo started last in the first round and joined the other ten combinations for the jump-off after a flawless clear. Also in the decisive round Dante jumped superb. She was on pole position for victory, crossed the line over half a second faster than the leading time, but unfortunately touched the rail on the last obstacle, which fell mercilessly. ‘Really a bad luck mistake’, said Marc, who nevertheless was very pleased with the feeling the mare gave him.

Sterrehof’s Calimero

The same feeling was there with Sterrehof’s Calimero. Our second trump card in Valkenswaard had a time penalty in the 1.45m class on Friday and ended up with four penalty points in the 1.50/1.55m the next day. Marc: ‘Unfortunately we also had this fault on the last fence, but I am happy with the way he jumped.’