France Triumphs in the First FEI Eventing Nations Cup of 2024
The French team marked a significant victory at the first leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup 2024 series, held at Montelibretti, Italy. Five European nations went head to head in this prestigious CCIO4*-S event. Earning an overall team score of 122.70 thanks to their flawless cross-country performance, France emerged victorious, leaving Italy and Switzerland to secure second and third places with scores of 144.50 and 145.30, respectively.
Top Performers
The French team arguably owes their victory to Benjamin Massie, who achieved the highest overall rank. He led his team on Figaro Fonroy, a 9-year-old Chestnut Gelding with a score of 39.40. “The course was tough enough for the beginning of the season,” Massie commented. “Despite the ground being quite nice, technically speaking, it posed a challenge for us.”
His teammate, world No. 8, Maxime Livio, used this competition to prepare himself for the upcoming Paris Olympic games. The ambitious, 36-year-old rider managed second place with a score of 39.60. “I always take great pleasure in representing France as part of a team,” said Livio. He added that the Montelibretti course was an ideal preparation ground for riders planning to compete in the Olympics.
The Unfamiliar Champions
Luc Chateau was the only contestant to complete a double-clear round with his 10-year-old bay gelding, Ego Des Cabanes. He commented on the superb cross-country field and the favourable weather conditions he experienced throughout the week. Chateau's sentiments echoed through his successful performance, which was instrumental to France's triumph. Mathieu Chombart, another vital team member, competed with his gray gelding Big Boss Meio, who is 13 years old.
Looking ahead to the Next Leg
Riders from eight countries participated in the Nations Cup opener held in Rome's providence. Teams from Australia, France, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland met the competition's eligibility criteria. Notably, France managed second place in Montelibretti last year. The teams are now set their sights on the series' next leg at Chatsworth, England, scheduled for May.
Conclusion
Impeccable team coordination, robust performance, and determined players led France to victory at the season's first FEI Eventing Nations Cup. As the teams prepare for the next stage in England, it'll be exciting to see if France can maintain its early lead, or if another nation will step up to the challenge. Regardless, this initial victory indicates that this season of Eventing Nations Cup is primed to be a thrilling adventure. Stay tuned!
Source: Horse Network