Harrie Smolders Claims Rolex Grand Prix Victory at CHI Geneva,
Adding to the weekend's prestige, the CHI Geneva also hosted the Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final. This event saw the world's top 10-ranked riders compete against each other over two thrilling rounds.
Harrie Smolders of the Netherlands claimed victory in the 2024 edition of the Rolex Grand Prix at the CHI Geneva, riding Monaco to an exceptional win.
Second place went to Italy's Giulia Martinengo Marquet aboard Delta Del'isle, while Gilles Thomas of Belgium secured third place with Ermitage Kalone.
Smolders' triumph in the packed Palexpo Arena marked his first Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping Major win. Known for its challenging course and held in one of the world's largest indoor equestrian venues, the Rolex Grand Prix at the CHI Geneva consistently showcases world-class sport.
Forty elite horse-and-rider combinations tackled the demanding course, expertly designed by Gérard Lachat to see only 10 advance to the jump-off.
Among the early second-round contenders were Rolex Testimonee Martin Fuchs and Leone Jei, but it was Smolders, one of only three riders to deliver a double-clear, whose unmatched speed and precision secured victory and the coveted status of the new live contender for the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.
The Rolex Grand Prix at the CHI Geneva is the final equestrian Major of the year. Together with The Dutch Masters, the CHIO Aachen, and the CSIO Spruce Meadows 'Masters' Tournament, it forms the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping – widely regarded as the sport's ultimate challenge.
Adding to the weekend's prestige, the CHI Geneva also hosted the Rolex IJRC Top 10 Final on Friday 13 December. This event saw the world's top 10-ranked riders compete against each other over two thrilling rounds.
Rolex Testimonee Martin Fuchs with the exceptional Leone Jei, claimed the victory from his competitors by the smallest of margins. Fellow Rolex Testimonee Kent Farrington secured second place while Great Britain's Ben Maher finished in third place.
