Riesenbeck Festival in Doha: Philipp Weishaupt wins Grand Prix ahead of Christian Kukuk

Philipp Weishaupt & Christian Kukuk
Philipp Weishaupt & Christian Kukuk © spring-reiter.de

Ludger Beerbaum could be more than satisfied in his hospital bed in Doha: After the super team victory for Riesenbeck International at the Global Champions League by Philipp Weishaupt and Christian Kukuk on Friday, the two gave their injured boss an even bigger present on Saturday. After an incredibly fast round of 34.37 seconds, Philipp Weishaupt sensationally won the Grand Prix of Doha with the only nine-year-old KWPN mare Just be Gentle (by Tyson) ahead of Christian Kukuk and the Emerald daughter Nice van't Zorgvliet (v. 34.42 seconds). A resounding victory for Beerbam Stables, which certainly made the fall including the broken leg, surgery and hospital for Ludger Beerbaum much more bearable in the end.
The winner himself was most surprised. About the performance of his only nine-year-old mare. Because actually the plan was different: "I actually wanted to ride the Grand Prix with Coby, but due to Ludger's fall I had to substitute for him in the team. I then spent the whole night thinking about whether I should ride the mare in the Grand Prix. She is only nine years old and has never competed in a Grand Prix, not even a two-star Grand Prix. And then I thought, ok, I'll give it a try. The unexpected victories are the best. I am unbelievably proud of my horse," the winner said happily after his triumph. And wished his boss a speedy recovery in the direction of the clinic.

After all, seven pairs had entered the jump-off and fought for the victory, for which there was a prize of 125,350 euros. Christian Kukuk, as the last rider, tried to somehow challenge his colleague for the victory. And he was in front until the final line, but in the last metres he lost some time and was happy about a great second place. Simon Delestre completed the podium with Dexter Fontenis Z (by Diarado). He was also just a touch slower than the German competitors with a time of 34.46 seconds.
Hansi Dreher and his Holsteiner Elysium (by VDL Zirocco Blue) also remained double zero. The two finished seventh.

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