Vogel and Gangster Win Longines Grand Prix
German rider Richard Vogel claimed the largest share of the €106,500 prize riding Gangster Montdésir among 40 competitors on Grégory Bodo’s course at Longines Equita Lyon.
Competition Overview
On Friday evening at the International Arena in Eurexpo, dressage events gave way to show jumping at the Longines Equita Lyon, Concours Hippique International. Richard Vogel, who previously won the Longines FEI World Cup™ Grand Prix in Lyon last year, secured first place in the CSI 5*-W Longines Grand Prix aboard the Selle Français horse Gangster Montdésir.
Challenging Course and Early Leaders
The French designer Grégory Bodo created a demanding course featuring 13 obstacles and 16 jumping efforts, testing the 49 pairs that started the event. After the initial round, 11 rider-horse pairs completed clear rounds.
- France’s Jeanne Sadran, riding Dexter de Kerglenn, was the first to enter the jump-off.
- She matched her first-round time in 42.96 seconds and ultimately finished fifth.
Final Results
Jeanne Sadran held the lead until Richard Vogel and his nine-year-old bay Gangster Montdésir took the top spot. Their partnership, which began in September, marked their first Grand Prix competition at 1.60m, where they delivered consistent strong performances.
“The atmosphere here is electrifying, it really gives you wings,” said Vogel.
Author’s summary: Richard Vogel’s steady rise with Gangster Montdésir led them to a commanding win at the Longines Grand Prix, showcasing strong teamwork and skill on a challenging course.