The 2025 Longines Summer Classic reached a spectacular conclusion at the Tops International Arena in Valkenswaard, where equestrian fans were treated to a thrilling finale that showcased the very best of showjumping. With the CSI4* Grand Prix as the headline event, international stars delivered a nail-biting jump-off that was ultimately decided by the narrowest of margins.
Mexico’s Andres Azcarraga claimed top honors in the Grand Prix aboard his seasoned partner Contendros 2. The pair delivered a masterclass in pace and control, clocking in at 35.62 seconds. Just behind him was local favourite Harrie Smolders, who had enjoyed a superb week with multiple wins and was on the verge of completing a perfect trio. Riding Mr. Tac, Smolders posted a double clear in 35.67 seconds—just 0.05 seconds slower. The intensity of the contest kept spectators on edge until the very last moment.
The competition attracted a strong lineup of global talent. Nine riders progressed to the deciding jump-off after navigating a challenging first round that saw top names such as Jessica Springsteen, Gilles Thomas, and Simon Delestre fall short. This underscored the complexity of the course and the high level of riding on display.
Among the early challengers in the jump-off, Linda Bratomi of Italy took a measured approach and completed a steady double clear, setting a benchmark time. Germany’s Christian Ahlmann opted for riskier inside lines and had the fastest time before knocking a pole at the second-last fence, which pushed him down the rankings. Ireland’s Denis Lynch made a bold bid with Cordial, earning third place with a time of 35.96 seconds.
Adding to the excitement, Charlotte Leoni from France and Italy’s Giampiero Garofalo both produced determined rounds that kept them within the top ten. Saudi Arabia’s Abdullah Alsharbatly showed aggression in his approach but was undone by a rail late in his round.
With families and fans basking in the summer sun, the arena was abuzz with more than just competition. Attendees enjoyed live music, food stalls, shopping, and entertainment tailored for all age groups, making the event a complete weekend getaway.
Earlier, the CSI2* Grand Prix had already set the tone with its own thrilling storyline. Dutchman Jur Vrieling stole the show aboard Helwell du Chabus, blazing through the jump-off in 31.94 seconds to snatch the win from Khaled Almobty and Rodrigo Pessoa, who had both set competitive times. Vrieling doubled his delight by also winning the CSI2* Medium Tour on Jaguar Fighter Go with a commanding performance that stopped the clock at 29.45 seconds.
In the CSI1* Grand Prix, 19-year-old Dutch rider Hilde Veenstra showcased maturity beyond her years, partnering with Royal Mail to secure victory in a competitive jump-off. She was closely followed by Pam Nieuwenhuis and Ireland’s Gavin Harley, who also put in flawless rounds.
Young talent also took center stage in the CSIYH division, with Germany’s Laura Klaphake rising to the top aboard her seven-year-old grey mare. Her blistering time of 30.36 seconds edged out Belgium’s Gilles Thomas and UAE’s Salim Ahmed Al Suwaidi in an intense contest. Jur Vrieling again featured prominently, finishing as the top Dutch rider in fourth.
The final day encapsulated everything the Summer Classic stands for: exceptional competition, global camaraderie, and a festival-style ambiance that resonates with both hardcore equestrian fans and casual visitors alike. With such high-level performances across all divisions, anticipation is already building for the next chapter—the Summer Showcase, scheduled from July 24 to July 27, 2025.
As the sun dipped behind the horizon of Valkenswaard, the 2025 Summer Classic closed on a high, reminding all why Longines Tops International Arena remains one of the premier destinations in the global showjumping calendar.
