What a stunning performance by Gilles Thomas (26) riding Ermitage Kalone in the Global Champions Leaugue in Madrid on Friday!  Gilles and Valkenswaard-United teammate 69-year-old (!) John Withaker (Equine America Unick de Francport) jumped straight to victory.

After last month's rounds in Miami and Mexico City and the Shanghai round a fortnight ago, the Longines Global Champions Tour began its European leg this week. First stop is Madrid. The opening day (Friday) immediately opened with two rounds of the Global Champions League on the programme.

In the first round, Belgian Champion Gilles Thomas impressed with his 10-year-old stallion Ermitage Kalone, with a handsome and clear clear round. In the second round too, all obstacles remained in the scoops and the stallion jumped at a particularly high level. 

Jumping legend and teammate John Withaker: ‘I am really proud of Gilles. He didn't need any help from me, he simply rode with class. What a talent and what a strong combination! This win means a lot to the team and really puts us back in the race for the championship.’

Round 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ux2z61Tneo4

Round 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPWECTuNT00