Julien Epaillard was a very young enthusiast when he first picked up horse riding. With a little help from the parents’ equestrian center for training as an amateur, the French champion has steadily risen to success. As of 2022, Julien placed number 2 in the world and number 1 in France. Keeping up with his ever-growing excellence, the equestrian raced to stun the crowd on Saturday.

It was the battle of the best at O2 Arena, Prague over the weekend. The occasion welcomed notable and dedicated equestrians from across the world for the most awaited event in the industry’s calendar. As 16, including Jessica Springsteen representing the USA took to the grounds for a fight, Julien reigned dominance in the arena.

The French equestrian triumphs SGP

From the 16th of November, the heart of the Czech Republic hosted the final Longines Global Championship event for the season. While the showcase entailed group stages, the 1.25 Million Euros worth of Super Grand Prix remained the highlight. Surpassing 15 of the golden ticket winners, Julien Epaillard stood to be crowned the most coveted title in the field. The LGCT took to its Instagram story to give a shoutout to the season’s winner.

“@harasdelabosquetterie Has done it!!! He’s won the LGCT Super Grand Prix!!!” the caption read. The 46-year-old aced the ?100,000, LGCT Grand Prix of Ramatuelle St.Tropez to win the golden ticket to the 2023 Prague Playoffs. Julien bested 2021 LGCT Super Grand Prix winner Henrik von Eckermann, Entrepreneur Max K?hner, Olympian Jessica Springsteen, and others to secure the ultimate title.

Julien’s road to the podium

The Super Grand Prix event was designed to consist of 2 rounds challenging the 1.65m tracks. The rules exuded no jump-offs but included consideration of faults. Following along with the conditions, the equestrian put on an exceptional showcase in round 1. 71.63 aboard Dubai du Cedre on board placed Julien in the third spot for the evening. Trailing along in round 1 was Jessica Springsteen with 73.35. However, as the event led to round 2, Epaillard catapulted to the top.

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In the final round, Julien recorded 57.49 with 4 on the penalty board. As for Jessica, the 31-year-old took the 8th position with 8 on the faults and 61.19 on the clock. Eckermann trailed to the 2nd position with 58.76 while Kuhner landed 60.41 for the third spot. “It was amazing tonight, it?s a special atmosphere, it?s a special victory for me today,” Julien stated after triumph. “I was not sure if I would stay in the lead, but it was amazing today.”?

Earlier this year, the duo took home bronze at the 2023 European Championships in Milano. It was followed by a team silver at the 2023 Nations Cup Final in Barcelona. Also on the list are France Longines Grand Prix win and a second in the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup, Lyon. Owning to a persisting streak, Julien will look to set foot on the 2024 Paris grounds.

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