Jumping International de Dinard: Germany dominates in Dinard

By delivering the only clear round of the day, Germany’s Sophie Hinners claimed victory in the Derby Saur de la Région Bretagne, the highlight class. Her partner, Richard Vogel, newly crowned European Champion last week, won the other major class of the day.

Sophie Hinners seemed to settle comfortably on one of the clouds that rolled into Brittany yesterday. Already in the spotlight three times since the start of the Jumping International de Dinard, the World No. 25 added yet another triumph on Saturday with the Derby Saur de la Région Bretagne. She secured Germany’s first win in the Derby since the show’s revival in 2013, succeeding Félix Jarry, last year’s winner with Elgaura, who unfortunately had an unscathed but spectacular fall at the water jump this time.

Riding Munin, her 10-year-old gelding, Hinners was the only one to solve all the questions asked by the traditional Dinard course designer, Jean-François Morand. It was a flawless demonstration: no hesitation, a textbook ride through the double of planks leading down a steep bank, perfect balance over every obstacle despite the challenging terrain of Val Porée. At just 27 years old, Sophie Hinners delivered a masterclass. “It was my first Derby,” she admitted. “I was a bit impressed when I walked the course, but I trusted my horse. I’ve known him since he was five, I know his character and I knew he was the right choice for this class. Winning it is really special. I loved it. I didn’t really have a specific preparation for the Derby, but I trust the connection we have. The atmosphere in Dinard is incredible with so many people cheering you on. I’d heard a lot of positive things about this show—I now understand why.”