Seacoast Forlap
Gregory finished Doha beautifully thanks to Forlap who delivered yet another masterful performance by jumping three rounds clear and having only been beat on the clock by the German rider, Ludger Beerbaum. Unfortunately, our pair had to go first in this Grand Prix, which was not to their advantage. But a perfect first round which Forlap jumped easily qualified them for the second round where 18 riders qualified, 8 of whom had also accomplished a clear first round. The second round was shortened however the obstacles were raised to their maximum height. But once again, our Belgian couple easily conquered the big height and realized the first double clear. Two other couples would join them in this score including Ludger Beerbau and Nicolas Philipaerts.
As first to go in the jump-off (once again), Gregory faced a dilemma between going fast or going clear. “I knew that normally the other two would be faster given that Forlap lacks some experience for this level jumpoff and since he already had two rounds underneath him. So I preferred to not take stupid risks but instead have a comfortable clear round. Thus I can only be happy with this magnificent 2nd place finish in this difficult CSI-5* GP. Forlap was simply exceptional and is becoming so consistent. It is my great fortune to ride a horse like this.”
