Rolex Series: Equestrian Elite Compete for Victory this Sunday at the Brussels Stephex Masters

The Brussels Stephex Masters, one of Belgium’s most prestigious equestrian events, marks its tenth anniversary this weekend. Now part of the esteemed Rolex Series for the first time, this unmissable event draws horse lovers, sports enthusiasts, and those seeking a unique atmosphere. With a captivating mix of top-tier competition, luxurious hospitality, and vibrant entertainment, be sure to experience the Rolex Grand Prix presented by Audi tomorrow at 2 p.m. for an unforgettable spectacle.

Thursday August 29, CSIO5* 1m50 against the clock  

Riders from nineteen countries, including eight of the world's top twenty, took on the challenging course in the first qualifier. Among them, Gilles Thomas and his black stallion, Elfra Van Beek Z, dominated this timed event, finishing fastest out of the twenty-three clear rounds. American rider Natalie Dean, on Oasis van de Bucxtal, secured second place, while France's Olivier Perreau, riding GL Events Faustine Sauvage, claimed third.

Friday August 30, CSIO5* 1m50 with jump-off.

Stephex rider Daniel Deusser triumphed in yesterday's CSIO5* 1m50 event. Out of the fifty pairs competing in this new qualifier, eighteen managed to secure clear rounds, earning a spot in the jump-off. Germany's Daniel Deusser, aboard Guldenboom's Otello, delivered a brilliant performance, winning the event with two fast, flawless runs. Steve Guerdat, riding Lancelotta, and Scott Brash, on Chadora Lady, rounded out the podium, both also achieving clear rounds.

Friday August 30, Nations Cup CSIO5* 1m60.

Last night, in front of a packed arena, Switzerland claimed victory in the CSIO5* Nations' Cup, with local riders securing a strong second place. The top 24 pairs from the first round have qualified for tomorrow's Rolex Grand Prix presented by Audi

Saturday August 31, CSIO5* 1m50 with jump-off.

In today’s CSI5* event, only four riders managed to overcome the challenges of the course designed by Grégory Bodo and achieve a double clear round. In the end, it was the German anthem that played once again to celebrate Daniel Deusser’s victory. With impressive speed, he won the CSIO5* 1.50m timed event on Scuderia 1918 Tobago Z, ahead of Steve Guerdat and IS-Minka. They were closely followed by Harrie Smolders and Mr Tac.

Rolex Grand Prix Presented by Audi: Sunday, September 1st at 2 p.m.

The Rolex Grand Prix presented by Audi will showcase some of the biggest names in international equestrian sport, including Steve Guerdat, Kevin Staut, Ben Maher, Martin Fuchs and Scott Brash. Joining them are rising stars like Lars Kersten, all vying for victory. They’ll all be looking to follow in the footsteps of England's Ben Maher, who captured last year's title with Dallas Vegas Batilly.

This Sunday at 2 p.m., the main arena of the Brussels Stephex Masters will take center stage for the final summer event of the Rolex Series. The competition is set to be electrifying, as riders tackle a challenging course designed by Grégory Bodo. Presented by Audi, the Rolex Grand Prix promises to be one of the weekend's standout moments, delivering an unmissable spectacle for equestrian sport enthusiasts.

 

Gilles Thomas ©Rolex Series Gilles Thomas ©Rolex Series

Gilles Thomas, Rolex Series ambassador and winner of Thursday's CSIO5* event. Gilles Thomas, Rolex Series ambassador and winner of Thursday's CSIO5* event.

For the Grand Prix, I'll be relying on my lead mare, Luna van het Dennehof. Initially, I planned to compete with her in tomorrow's qualifier, but with today's victory, I've already secured my spot. So, I'll enter her in a less demanding event tomorrow to ensure she's in top form for Sunday.

Janika Sprunger, the Swiss rider, was present for the first time. Janika Sprunger, the Swiss rider, was present for the first time.

I hope to come back often. Winning isn’t the only thing that matters,” she joked. “What makes this event special is how it blends tradition with modernity, which is quite unique. It’s a privilege to ride here.