Kristen Vanderveen Dominates CSI5* Jump-Off at H H The Father Amir’s Prix

Kristen Vanderveen delivered an impressive performance in the final round of the H H The Father Amir’s Prix, clinching a decisive victory in the CSI5* Table A jump-off over 155 cm at Al Shaqab in Doha on March 14, 2024. The American rider showcased her skill aboard the 12-year-old gelding Bull Run’s Jireh, completing the course in a remarkable 40.14 seconds, an unbeatable time that secured her the top spot.

Switzerland’s Nadja Peter Steiner came closest to challenging Vanderveen, finishing with a time of 40.53 seconds on Clearround IL Mondo. Brazil’s Marlon Modolo Zanotelli rounded out the podium with a flawless jump-off aboard Charly Heart, clocking in at 41.02 seconds. Janne Friederike Meyer-Zimmermann took fourth place with My Lady Lavista in 42.08 seconds, while Britain’s Harry Charles finished fifth with Fighting Phil in 42.30 seconds.

Highlights from the CSI5* and CSI3* Competitions

The CSI5* Six Bar competition over 150 cm tested the limits of power and scope, culminating in a clear winner. Millie Allen emerged victorious with Quickly D vh Ijzerenlindehof, the only combination to remain fault-free throughout the event. Philipp Weishaupt secured second place with Lady Concern du Rezidal, while three riders—Juan Carlos Garcia on Django du Marais, Mustafa Saed with Kalliope Lvp Z, and Max Kuhner riding Eic Cooley Jump The Q—shared third after incurring faults in the final round.

In the CSI5* Faults and Time class over 145 cm, Germany’s Philipp Weishaupt set the standard with a sharp clear round on Karaldo, finishing in 59.87 seconds. Saudi Arabia’s Abdullah Alsharbatly followed closely in second place with Valentino in 62.33 seconds, while American rider Eve Jobs completed the podium aboard Kannandillo in 62.44 seconds.

The competition continued to showcase the talent of Saudi riders, with Abdullah Alsharbatly also taking the lead in the CSI3* Faults and Time class over 1.45 m, achieving victory aboard Quisandro in 60.55 seconds. Qatar’s Faleh Suwead Al Ajami placed second with Wathnan Qapella, while Italy’s Emanuele Gaudiano claimed third with Julius.D.

Looking Ahead to the Finale

The H H The Father Amir’s Prix has solidified its reputation as a premier event in the international equestrian calendar. Sheikh Talal bin Khalid Al-Thani, Assistant Tournament Director, emphasized the championship’s success, noting participation from over 38 countries and a total prize pool exceeding €3.3 million. He highlighted the blend of elite international competitors and local talent, reflecting the event’s global appeal and the advancement of Qatari riders.

As the tournament approaches its final day, excitement builds for the Grand Prix competitions across three categories, including the prestigious CSI5* Grand Prix over 160 cm with a jump-off. Sheikh Talal remarked on the meticulous planning and organization that contributed to the event’s high standards, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a leading host for major international sporting events.

With a full schedule ahead, including various jump-off competitions, the anticipation for the championship’s conclusion is palpable. The H H The Father Amir Award encompasses multiple international rounds and serves as a qualifier for the FEI Group VII Finals, underscoring its importance in the global showjumping circuit.