ABDEL SAÏD SNATCHES FALSTERBO DERBY WIN FROM STEVE GUERDAT
Just like in 2023, Abdel Saïd and Steve Guerdat faced off in a thrilling jump-off at the Falsterbo Derby—on the same horses and the same course. However, this year the outcome was reversed with a lightning-fast, clear round from Abdel Saïd on Arpege du RU. They didn’t just win but they also improved their 2023 time by over 6 seconds. Sandra Auffarth maintained her third-place position from last year, this time on a new horse, C'Est A La Vie.
Saturday afternoon showcased one of the highlights of Falsterbo Horse Show; the iconic Falsterbo Derby. Twenty-one combinations tackled the demanding 1.50m course, featuring 19 fences and 22 jumps, including water ditches, gates, stone walls, and jumps out of the main arena, testing both horse and rider’s skill and bravery.
Abdel Saïd and Arpege du RU entered as the tenth duo and delivered the first clear round of the class, setting the bar high. For a time, it seemed he might secure the win, until the 2023 victorious duo, Steve Guerdat and Easy Star de Talma, took their turn and also posted a faultless round. With only these 2 riders completing clear rounds, the stage was set once again for a jump-off—like in 2023. Close behind, Germany’s Sandra Auffarth secured third place on as the fastest of the 4-faulters.
A highly anticipated rematch—would Saïd’s hunger for redemption prevail, or would Guerdat defend his title?
Saïd was first to go in the jump-off and set a blazing, clear round, putting pressure on Guerdat. The reigning champion, widely considered a Derby specialist, remained unfased, guiding Easy Star de Talma with precision and experience—also clear. Yet, it wasn’t enough to topple Saïd’s lead. With this victory, Saïd added another title to his growing collection, just hours after winning the morning’s Rolex Grand Prix Qualifier.
As tradition, the jump-off course mirrored that of the 2023 showdown, with minor fence adjustments. This year, Saïd and Arpege du RU improved their time by more than six seconds. When asked how they achieved this, Abdel chuckled:
“Lack of control!” He then explained:
“Honestly, she’s just naturally a very fast horse. Two years ago, I was too cautious. I learned a lot from riders like Steve—in those situations, just aiming for a clean round isn’t enough. You have to really go for it.”
His admiration for his horse was evident:
“She always gives her best. She tried so hard—especially at the wall. I came in on a long turn, but she just rocked it. That’s why we do this—to experience moments like this with horses like her.”
Derby jumping is a true test of courage, technique, and trust between horse and rider—qualities Abdel Saïd and Arpege du RU demonstrated with every jump.
“You need a horse that’s both brave and clever. These fences—banks, gates, jumps out of the arena—you don’t see that in regular classes,” Abdel remarked.
Praised by a Derby Specialist and Celebrated by the Crowd:
Steve Guerdat reflected on the day during the press conference:
“As always, Saturday at Falsterbo was fantastic. My horse performed really well—people often assume he’ll go clear, but it’s never that simple. It’s such a pleasure to ride in a class like this.”
He continued:
“We were fortunate with the weather. Yesterday’s Nations Cup was great, and today’s Derby—with a jump-off—made it even more exciting for the spectators. The organisers did an excellent job, and I’m especially impressed by the audience. Even in yesterday’s rain, every seat was filled, and everyone stayed for the prize-giving. Sweden deserved the win yesterday, and I’m happy to be part of another memorable afternoon of sport.”
Third Place on a New Horse:
Just like in 2023, Sandra Auffarth secured third place, riding C’Est A La Vie in his Derby debut:
“This was his first Derby, so I was curious how he’d handle it. I trained a little, but not extensively. He was fantastic—I love Derby, it’s my favorite competition. And I believe he enjoyed it too.”
When asked how her background in eventing—two World Championship gold medals—helps in Derby performance, she replied:
“Facing unfamiliar situations requires quick reactions from both horse and rider—similar to cross-country. The course is longer, but unlike eventing, you have more time to prepare for each jump. The combination of both disciplines makes Derby uniquely special.”
Acknowledging Falsterbo Volunteers:
The top 3 riders delivered a spectacular display of world-class sport, leaving a lasting impression. All expressed gratitude to the organizers and volunteers who make Falsterbo Horse Show possible. After the press conference, Abdel Saïd took a moment to record a message to the volunteers:
“I want to sincerely thank all the volunteers—here from morning till night, regardless of the weather—for making this event happen. Their dedication allows these wonderful crowds to enjoy the show. Thanks also to the organizers for their hard work. Above all, I truly appreciate the volunteers and the spectators for their support and commitment".
1) Abdel Saïd, BEL – Arpege du RU 0-0/45.89
2) Steve Guerdat, SUI – Easy Star de Talma 0-0/47.93
3) Sandra Auffarth, GER – C’Est A La Vie 4/156.22
**Said also won the CSIO5* 1.50m qualifier earlier on the day
--ENDS—
Edited by HT
Full Derby results here
CSIO5* qualifer results here
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