An emotional triumph against the backdrop of South Beach’s Atlantic Ocean.
The Longines Global Champions Tour Miami Beach 2024 (LGCT) lived up to the Founder and President, Jan Tops everlasting vision, “My vision is clear. Only the best for the best”. The world’s premier show jumping series moves around the globe with a different stage set for each exhilarating chapter of each tour city. Miami Beach is always a crowd pleaser.
Leaving spectators in awe, riders and horses conquered a demanding course on the sands of South Beach, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The competition was intense, offering the audience a glimpse into the pinnacle of equestrian sport against the backdrop of one of the world’s most stunning arenas with the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop filled with bikini-clad beachgoers treated to a truly unique sport spectacle. The LGCT Grand Prix provided an unforgettable experience, blending the camaraderie of elite sportsmanship with the vibrant culture and sophistication of Miami Beach. Nine world-class combinations made it into the jump-off.
The Longines Global Champions Tour of Miami Beach illuminated the sandy shores of Miami with electrifying sporting action, top-tier hospitality, and star-studded entertainment. From thrilling competition to pulsating DJ beats, the event had it all. As riders vied for victory in a sensational showdown on the beach, spectators were treated to a feast for the senses. This elite equestrian event even had bottomless pours from Piaff Champagne bottles perfect for those lucky enough to be hosted in the VIP pavilion where an immense spread of culinary delights filled the buffet tables.
Among the star power in attendance was supermodel Gisele Bündchen, former Formula 1 driver Romain Grosjean, and charismatic actor Cuba Gooding Jr as well as actress Mischa Barton. Equestrian royalty included Georgina Bloomberg and Jessica Springsteen who captivated the audience with their flawless performances in the arena. Team owner of the Rome Gladiators, Mark Rein watched on as his team shot to the top of the podium and collected maximum championship points.
Against the iconic backdrop of Miami Beach, competitors Michael Duffy and Claptonn Mouche secured their first-ever Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix victory. The duo’s remarkable win was highlighted by their status as the sole double clear of the day. Duffy’s emotional victory was evident as he dedicated the win to his late friend, Jack Dodd, during a tearful winner’s interview.
While Duffy and Claptonn Mouche claimed the top spot, Max Kühner and EIC Cooley Jump finished two seconds faster but accumulated four faults over the liverpool fence which caught out more than a couple of contenders. On form Frenchman, Julien Anquetin and Blood Diamond du Pont rounded off the podium as the second fastest four-faulter, contributing to an electrifying competition next to the Atlantic Ocean.
The eighth edition of the Longines Global Champions Tour of Miami Beach has passed, but spectators can stay tuned in for 2025, when the world’s finest riders will once again converge for an unforgettable celebration of sport, style, and sophistication.
The 2024 season started in Doha, before moving on to Miami Beach. Looking ahead, the LGCT Championship moved swiftly to Mexico City for the third leg of the 2024 season followed by Shanghai. Other tour stops in the 2024 season series include: Madrid, St. Tropez, Cannes, Paris, Stockholm, Monaco, Riesenbeck, London, Valkenswaard, Rome, Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Together the LGCT and GCL cover 3 continents, 14 countries and 16 dazzling destinations. With a change in scenery and different arena and audience awaiting competitors in each city, this is truly a captivating elite sport for the best of the best.
Hope Gainer
