First Time’s a Charm For Grégory Cottard

Gregory Cottard (FRA) riding Regate d'Aure during the Masters One Asia Horse Week, Longines Masters Paris at Paris Nord Villepinte on November 30th, 2017 in Paris, France. (Photo: ©Matthieu Mirville)

A first victory in Paris is always a landmark moment, especially when it’s also your first appearance in the Masters One. It was indeed a special moment for Grégory Cottard and Régate d’Aure when they triumphed in the Masters One Asia Horse Week – named for the new international gathering of the equestrian industry, initiated by EEM and set to run from February 8th to 11th 2018 alongside the Longines Masters in Hong Kong. Cottard proved triomphnt over America’s Lauren Hough (Quantas 15) and France’s Alexandra Paillot (Tonio la Goutelle).

After a great season with many good results in national and international Grands Prix (the WBA–Ar Tropig team in which he partners Jérôme Hurel, this afternoon’s Masters Two Grand Prix Magazine winner, finished 3rd in the Grand National), a win in the Nations Cup in Gijon and four appearances in CSI-5* events, among other achievements, they have been selected by Philippe Guerdat to participate in their first Longines Masters of Paris. “Not everyone has the same objectives in an opening event,” admits the France Pro Elite 2017 reserve champion (and French champion in 2013). “My goal was to get back into a strong canter. When I left the arena, I thought I was in the top five – I’m really glad we saw it through to the end! It’s a confidence boost before the next stage.”

So, what is the next stage? He will be competing with Urhelia Lutterbach in the 1.50-metre event and with Régate in the Longines Speed Challenge tomorrow. “Speed doesn’t bother her, it’s actually the contrary.” So, she could compete in the Longines Grand Prix if the opportunity arose, but nothing has been decided yet.

The day’s arena events have now come to a close and it’s time to head over to the Prestige Village where an action-packed evening awaits. Kicking off the excitement, guests will be entertained by ‘Riders & Rugby’, a workshop powered by Racing Métro 92 and U Arena. Showcasing her artistic flair Clémence Faivre and her new show, Fuego, promise to wow guests with every step. Then it’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for as we draw the duels for the Riders Masters Cup on Saturday evening. The first round of this groundbreaking event will be a spectacular clash between the very best European and American riders, with the final scheduled for next April at the inaugural Longines Masters of New York.

Then, partygoers can dance on into the wee hours with sets from DJs Jérémie Charlier and River Jaxx… and look forwarrd to tomorrow’s competition.

For more information visit longinesmasters.com