The fireworks of the Scott Brash and Ben Maher battles have delivered unforgettable Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of London drama in recent years, but the meteoric rise of a talented group of young Brits will add new sizzle in 2022.
But will young brits trigger an upset?
As spectators take their seats in the grandstands next to the unique backdrop of Royal Hospital Chelsea, hearts are full of hope and excitement for British victory on home soil. The Saturday showdowns produce an electric atmosphere and all eyes are on Scott Brash and Ben Maher with memories of past contests fresh in the minds of show jumping fans.
2017
Scott’s epic win left spectators and commentators breathless as he stopped the clock in 38.62 on Hello Forever. Ben and Madame X were forced into second place in 38.68 – a hair-raising climax to that year’s LGCT of London Grand Prix.
2018
With the pressure of an expectant crowd Scott again triumphed, this time on Hello Mr President with a heart-stopping clear. Ben and Explosion W tried everything but landed four faults and young Brit Harry Charles finished sixth.
2019
The tables turned as Ben and Explosion W hit their epic period that would dominate show jumping that year. Ben and the superstar gelding took the honours but Scott was unable to match his rival and finished down the order.
Last year Ben finished in an uncharacteristic 19th place and Scott did not make it to the LGCT Grand Prix of London. But there were still thrills for the crowd with John Whitaker’s phenomenal charge of the veteran – his second place delighting the Chelsea Pensioners who joined the prize-giving ceremony.
As the curtain goes up at LGCT London Scott will be aiming for his 4th LGCT Grand Prix of London win – his first was in 2014. While Ben Maher will have his renowned steely determination to notch up his third LGCT Grand Prix of London victory – his first was back in 2013.
But this year may see a dramatic twist to the story of the hugely popular London event on the Global Champions circuit. Young British stars Lily Attwood, Harry Charles, Jodie Hall McAteer and Jack Whitaker have all impressed with serious displays of talent on the GCL and will be fired up to prove themselves in front of the home crowd.
Limited tickets are still available to watch this intense showdown of top sport! With the GC Lounge sold out on all three days get your grandstand ticket before it is too late.
Suzanne Ashton, Founder of Everything Horse (Est, 2012), has a BA Hons in Marketing Management and a Diploma in Equine Science. Suzanne has ridden and owned horses all her life and has twelve years of experience in marketing, writing, design, SEO, and website creation.