'Olympic selection will be very difficult

Graham Fletcher assesses team hopes for Paris, and a royal faux pas

-  Graham Fletcher

WINDSOR has always been a great show, and spectators watching the Rolex grand prix from packed stands were treated to some of the best showjumping ever seen.

Steve Guerdat is total class; every young rider should study the way he rides flat out in a jump-off, yet keeps such a beautiful rhythm. This time, Steve was eclipsed by his winning teammate Martin Fuchs on Leone Jei. In his commentary, Nick Brooks-Ward described these two as “magicians” – and I totally agree.

In fact, at what promises to be the most hotly contested Olympics in Paris – so high is the standard in our sport currently – this Swiss pair will be the major contenders for a gold medal.

Windsor’s grand prix was so competitive that small margins proved very costly. Max Kühner had the fastest time in the decider – but hitting the penultimate fence cost him €110,000 (£94,590).