London Knights’ Kent Farrington and Ben Maher Victorious in GCL CSI5* Final of Miami Beach

In an incredible turn of events, London Knights' Kent Farrington and Ben Maher overtook leading team Valkenswaard United in a dramatic upset in the €270,000 Global Champions League CSI5* Final of Miami Beach. After only two events, the fight for the coveted title is already extremely competitive and tactical with team riders and trainers strategizing to get an early advantage in the championship. 

“I think it's really exciting what Jan is doing for the sport; he started the Global Champions Tour 12 years ago, and it's been evolving ever since,” Farrington said, referring to GCL co-founder, Jan Tops. “I think the team competition is the latest evolution of his vision for big sport. We can already see big changes from last year. I'm really excited to be a part of it and it's a great way to showcase our sport here in Miami Beach,” Farrington said.

No longer a class that riders can qualify for throughout the weekend and no longer a full, two-round grand prix with a start list of 40, the new Global Champions Tour Grand Prix CSI5* competition allows just 25 riders to compete and they have to have qualified in the previous GCL class.

Team Valkenswaard United looked set to continue their championship reign as they headed to the final at Miami Beach in pole position following Thursday's Round One. Maintaining their flawless score of zero faults, teammate Alberto Zorzi put them in a strong position to take the gold as they did in Mexico City last week. However as the last rider to compete over a challenging course, Bertram Allen knocked down two fences along the track, scoring an unusual eight faults and dropping the team to a second place finish.

Ben Maher and Kent Farrington stood atop the podium, with Maher jumping a clear and four fault round over the two days of competition with Don Vito. Farrington did the same aboard two mounts; Dublin and Creedance, but it was his final round with Creedance that pushed the London Knights up to first place with the quickest time over the 1.55/1.60m speed course.

As the victorious teams took to the podium followed by their victory gallop, the crowds cheered and the champagne sprayed. Valkenswaard United enter the next leg in Shanghai, China, still holding on to the ranking lead with a total score of 55. The London Knights jump into second place with a total of 47 and the St. Tropez Pirates sit in a very close third with a total of 46.

Source: GCL Press Release