Eric Leads From The First.

Eric Van Der Vleuten was the very first competitor in the ring this morning on VDL Groep Cannelina and although 50% of the thirty-two  starters were clear and through to the jump off, he was never headed. The grey mare, already in the money earlier in the week, was smooth and efficient round the turns in the timed phase and the clock stopped 38.79. None of the other 16 combinations could catch the Dutch pair try as they might and Holland got another win at Chantilly after Harrie Smolders yesterday.  Eric had finished just behind Harrie in that class but turned the tables here which was a good result for his sponsors, VDL Groep as well as for the GCT because they are one of the main sponsors at GCT Valkenswaard in addition to their generous support of Eric. Eventually second was Edwina Alexander on a relatively new ride, dark chestnut mare Kisby, who had a time of 39.29 and third place went to another of this weeks earlier winners, Simon Delestre, riding Napoli du Ry. Their time was 39.59. Bernado Alves was fourth with Monaco GP winner Bridgit.