Mansur Hits A High Note

Yuri Mansur leads a remarkable Brazilian effort across the Royal International week as he conquers the King George, with Britain taking third courtesy of Keith Shore

- Hannah Lemieux

IT is one of the toughest classes to win in the country and takes a strong partnership to conquer its technicality and towering fences. But Hickstead debutant Yuri Mansur and his super mare, Babylotte, made winning the prestigious King George V Gold Cup look easy.

The Brazilian and his 11-year old ride were the only pair from the 46-strong field to produce a double clear — and, in the end, scope won over speed.

“I last came to Hickstead to watch the 1999 European Championships and I remember thinking that one day I wanted to ride here,” said the 38-year-old, who is based in Holland. “This was my first opportunity to ride at a five-star show this year and it has been a great experience for me.

“I have no words for this mare. When I first got her she was jumping 1.45m classes and hated jumping off grass; now she just keeps on improving,” he added after claiming the €66,000 (£59,000) first prize.

With only four riders from the expansive line-up making it through against the clock, British hopes were pinned on Keith Shore, who enjoyed a remarkable King George with his long-term ride Mystic Hurricane to finish third.