For a long time, it seemed like Max Paschertz had the STAWAG-Prize victory in his pocket following his harmonious round aboard Foodfox’ Cathilde H. Paschertz is familiar with the atmosphere in Aachen, having previously competed in youth classes at the Soers with his Holstein-bred mare. The well-rehearsed pair took 64.43 seconds to complete the course on the holy grass. However, just before the end, Jj Torano and Lyon arrived and the pair flew across the finish line in the unbeatable time of 63.96 seconds.

The just 16-year-old American show-jumper took tight turns and maintained a high pace throughout, while his 12-year-old Holsteiner stallion handled every task with pricked ears and absolute confidence. “Lyon was right there with me at every stride. He is an incredible horse with a huge heart. He always gives 100 percent and every time he enters an arena, he wants to win,” his rider raved after their brilliant performance.

That attentive, focused attitude continued during the prize-giving ceremony as Lyon once again presented himself to the cheering crowd. “I was a bit nervous on the way here. Then, we rode into the Main Stadium – and wow, it is simply an incomparable feeling,” the rising star remarked, clearly impressed. “We came here with the goal of winning. Fortunately, everything worked out today,” said a delighted Jj Torano, celebrating his successful Aachen debut.

The Brazilian rider, Luiz Felipe Neto de Azevedo, and his gelding, Granit de la Mure, claimed third place with a time of 65.80 seconds. Tomorrow, the Jumping Team Competition for Young Riders – Prize of Sparkasse – is on the agenda.