Christian Ahlmann & Taloubet Z Ph. ©Thomas Reiner
The quality of the starting field for the Longines FEI World Cup Qualifier Leipzig already made for an intimidating class. But add into the picture the fact that it would be Taloubet Z’s final appearance in competition, and there was now an added element of determination for Christian Ahlmann to send his loyal partner of nine years off into retirement on a high note.
What followed on the evening of Sunday, January 21, 2018 was a sporting spectacle. The crowds, quite rightly, rose to their feet as they watched the 18-year-old KWPN stallion jump a victorious final round of showjumping in the same ring where he had won the FEI World Cup Final victory in 2001.
The stars had aligned for one of the sport’s most dominant pairs, making for an unforgettable closing chapter to a story that’s been one amazing ride.
Ph. ©Thomas Reiner