The FEI Driving World Cup™ Qualifier, presented by Karen and Hugh Scott-Barrett, concluded this evening with seven teams vying for the prestigious title. With only three teams returning for the exhilarating drive-off, the pressure was on from the moment they entered the arena. Despite incurring penalties for two fallen balls, Ijsbrand Chardon secured his place in the second round. Ten-time FEI World Cup™ Final winner Boyd Exell and last night’s class winner Dries Degrieck joined the Dutchman in the final showdown.
The drive-off proved tense, with teams returning in reverse order of merit. First to go was Dries Degrieck, who set the pace with a time of 161.76 seconds, including four penalties. Next up, 27-time Dutch National Champion Ijsbrand Chardon maintained an impressive speed through the marathon obstacles, taking the lead with a time of 153.86 seconds. Last to tackle the course was World No.1 Boyd Exell. Despite his best efforts, one-ball fell leaving Chardon to claim the coveted title – a prize he has not won since 2017.Speaking on his victory, Chardon exclaimed: “The level was very high this evening – my team was very fast. The horses were fantastic and I am very proud of them. I knew Boyd was coming after me and so there was no room for mistakes – and today I made none.”
