The first FEI-sanctioned horse show ever held at the gorgeous Polo Club of Saint Tropez was a resounding success. The competitors, sponsors, and media were all impressed by the premises and the infrastructure of the CSI*** event. The competitors were especially pleased by the good footing, and felt that the stabling was excellent.

In the events leading up to Sunday's GLD Lines Grand Prix, Frenchman Roger-Yves Bost and Jean-Claude Vangeenberghe, a Belgian resident now riding for the Ukraine, had been the big winners. However, the Grand Prix, which offered 30,000 Euros in prize money and an opportunity to gain points on the World Rider Ranking list, became an occasion of triumph for Michael Morrissey of the United States who earned 10,000 Euros for his victory. The runner-up was Michel Hecart of France with Itot du Chateau while Australia's Edwina Alexander placed third with Isovlas Sokrates by posting the only other double clear round.

In a strong field of competitors, the former American Junior Champion displayed extraordinary talent. Morrissey was overwhelmed with his victory especially considering that his horse, Crelido, had just returned to competition following injury. Owner Eugene Mische, who organizes the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida, purchased the horse last year and noted, "Michael has never shown in Europe before, so this is more than we had hoped for!"

Mister Grimaldi, whose company GLD Lines sponsored the Grand Prix, was very satisfied with the outcome. "I enjoyed it very much and, as a former rider, I appreciate how difficult it is to control your nerves at this level."

The Saint Tropez International Horse Show introduced an added dimension to the GLD Lines Grand Prix - for the first time ever, it was possible to place a bet on the outcome. At odds of 35:1, Michael Morrissey handsomely rewarded those who showed their expertise by betting on him to win. Unibet will continue to offer betting on the Riviera Tour, using it as an opportunity to gain experience with the sport of show jumping.

The Riviera Tour continues with a second week of competition in Saint Tropez, which has attracted an additional 24 riders from all over the world. New arrivals with aspirations of victory include Jos Lansink (BEL), Leopold van Asten (NED), and Kimberly Prince (USA). They will challenge proven performers Jean-Claude Vangeenberghe and Michael Morrissey who have both had a week to get comfortable in the venue. The Global Champions Tour continues with the second qualifier of the CN Global Champions Tour at CSI Cannes held June 8-10.

ATTACHED PHOTOGRAPH
"Michael Morrissey riding Crelido, winner of the GLD Lines Grand Prix at CSI Saint Tropez, receives his award from, among others, Gene Mische and Jan Tops." Photo credit – Manfred Leitgeb