Edwina Tops-Alexander, the current LGCT leader, will be in action in Rome.

© Eric Knoll

As the build up to the Longines Global Champions Tour of Rome begins to pick up pace, and with just over two weeks until the 13th leg of the Tour unfolds, all eyes now look to the third to last event in the season, set against the backdrop of the iconic Italian capital city.

Taking place from the 8th - 11th September, the next event in Rome will, as always with LGCT, bring top international riders from all around the world together to compete, as well as allowing home heroes the chance to perform under the spotlight.

Fresh from their stunning Rio success, Sheikh Ali Bin Khalid Al Thani, who performed brilliantly at Qatar’s debut Olympics to finish sixth, will be looking to carry the momentum through in Rome and on to their home event in Doha, Qatar. A favourite amongst the spectators in Brazil, due to the praise and thanks he gave to his horse, First Devision, following each clear, Sheikh Ali Bin Khalid Al Thani had the crowd chanting his name as he entered and left the arena, always with a huge smile. With the beautiful Stadio de Marmi at full capacity in its debut year, the second event in Rome promises yet another event full of electric atmosphere and high energy.

Indeed, many of the recent Olympic riders will be back in action on the Tour, as the the battle for the overall Champion of Champions reaches new heights - the points gap between ranking leader Edwina Tops-Alexander (AUS) and last year’s winner, Rolf-Göran Bengtsson (SWE) is now just 25 points difference. Fresh from his Grand Prix win in Valkenswaard with the formidable stallion Casall ASK, Rolf will be hoping for his third Grand Prix win of the season, and with the pair looking to be in incredible form, all eyes will be on the top Swedish rider to see if he can keep hold of his LGCT Rome title. Third place man, World Number 1, and long-time LGCT Ranking leader Christian Ahlmann (GER) is just a further 8 points Rolf, and now with a team Bronze Olympic medal under his belt will undoubtably too looking to add to his tally of success and return to the top spot on the overall rankings.
 
As well as riders from all around the globe, local Italian heroes will compete in front of a passionate local and international crowd as the battle for the series championship reaches a crucial stage, with competitors locked in a gladiatorial battle for top honours. The prestigious Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Rome will take place at 15:00 on Saturday 10th September, and will offer up an impressive €300,000 euros in prize money; plus two CSI5* speed classes on Friday and Sunday providing rich pickings, with a prize purse available of €91,000 each.
 
The Global Champions League battle looks set to intensify, with fourth place team Rome Gladiators looking for a strong result on home turn. With their green, white and red colours, the team will be looking to a cheering crowd to help score maximum points and shoot their way up the rankings, where a tight three horse dash to the finish is unfolding with the top teams separated by less than 5 points. Kicking off at 15:10 on Sunday 11th September, this round of the League will be one you simply won’t want to miss - head over to www.globalchampionsleague.com for all the information, insider info and details on what to expect in Rome.

Source: LGCT

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