CSI 5* Derby Tropicana: Belgian Wilm Vermeir clinches victory in Dinard (VIDEO)
Out of nine riders, none managed to clear the course. With 2 time penalty points, (172.46), the Belgian rider Wilm Vermeir, riding DM Jacqmotte, an 8 year old stallion by Toulon, signs the best score et clinches victory in his first Derby at Dinard. The 38 years old rider, based with twenty horses near Lümmen, said he was delighted about his week end in Britanny, since he won this afternoon his 4th class with different horses, among which the 7 year old Grand prix supported by the Haras des M with Kiarado, and the Avalle class on Thursday with Gentiane de la Pomme. We probably have not heard the last about this rider, who recently joined the Top 100 of the world ranking.
The second place goes to the rider from Britanny, Louis Bouhana, associated to the 11 year old gelding Sweet Phir (Quercus du Maury) with a total of five time faults (181’’18). A great performance for the rider based in Languivic, in Morbihan, who was competing in his first Derby. Louis paid tribute to his horse, who belongs to Michel Toninni, that he has been riding since the end of May, and was previously under the saddle of Clément Boulanger. « I don’t know him that well, but along the course, I felt he was relaxing. »
Philippe Rozier (FRA) completes the podium of the 2017 Derby he was riding with Rêveur de Kergane, who was already placed 5th in the Derby of La Baule in May. Due to a pole down on a vertical, and time faults (176’’77), le team Olympic champion scores a total of 7 points. Disappointed about this score he feels responsible for, Philippe paid tribute to Rêveur’s qualities he has been riding for a few months only, and was under an amateur’s saddle. « He is an incredible horse, he is not surprised by anything, he agrees on everything, indoors, Derbies or Grand Prix. He is the living prooof that in the world many horses could perform at the highest level, provided they meet the right person at the right time. »
Regarding the number of horses who entered this Derby, considered too limited, Philippe said he was not surprised, since during the same week end the riders have the choice between several competitions at the same level. « It is also an opportunity for the younger riders to get selected. »
Results HERE