The French rider Mathieu Lemoine walked away with both of the international horse trials competitions at the inaugural event at Le Pouget (Hérault, France). Despite eight showjumping faults in the CIC 1* he retained his lead, beating Benoit Parent (FRA) and Karin Donckers (BEL). A few hours later, after an influential cross country, he won again, this time beating Sébastien Poirier from Switzerland
Matthieu Lemoine Photo: Pixizone
CIC2* General Council of Hérault: Mathieu Lemoine wins with speed
The Belgian rider Karin Donckers will probably brood over her elimination on the cross country at Le Pouget. Until her elimination during cross country due to three successive refusals Karin and Lamicell Charizard were leading the CIC 2*. The time allowed (5'50'') seemed feasible but it soon became clear that it was a real challenge with only three combinations succeeding. One of these was the winner, Mathieu Lemoine. Fourth after the dressage and jumping, the 28 year old rider from Orléans completed the cross country course in 5'45'', to take the lead.
Sebastien Poirier (SUI), in second place after dressage, had some time faults but kept this placing while Emmanuel Ledieu finished third after a great recovery from 13th place.
CIC1* City of Le Pouget: Mathieu Lemoine (FRA) once again
Whereas Matthieu’s win the CIC 2* was slightly unexpected, in the CIC1*the French rider was already considered as the leader before the final jumping test held on Sunday morning. He could afford to drop two rails and they did indeed fall but fortunately they were his only faults.
Riding Opium de Blinière, he beat Benoît Parent (FRA), who finished on his dressage score in second place riding Feautibull. Despite her disappointment in the CIC 2* Karin Donckers, ranked 19th in the world, managed to take third place with Lady Brown, the mare she rode this year at the World Championships.
CLICK HERE for CIC 1* results
CLICK HERE for CIC 2* results
