A dream come true for Abdeslam Bennani Smires in Tétouan
The highlight of the first stage of the Morocco Royal Tour, the CSI4*-W Grand Prix (1.55m) – Prix de S.A.R. le Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan, delivered an unforgettable scenario. Under bright sunshine and in front of an enthusiastic crowd, Moroccan rider Abdeslam Bennani Smires achieved the most important victory of his career. Riding Mister d’Eclipse, he claimed victory just a few months after being crowned Moroccan Champion. A symbolic and historic triumph, secured at home in the most prestigious class of Tétouan.
The emotion of a historic moment
This first international win holds a special meaning for the Moroccan rider:
“It’s an incredible moment, an incredible year. I believe life gives and takes away, but it also gives back. I lost my father this year, which was very hard, but I had the chance to meet a horse like Mister d’Eclipse. I kept fighting, kept working, kept believing, and it paid off—first at the Moroccan Championship, and today here at the MRT. I am convinced he is watching from above and played a part in this. Winning here has a special flavor because it’s a competition we look forward to and prepare for every year. But we remain focused on the Nations Cup next week in Rabat.”
Met just over two years ago, Mister d’Eclipse had not been expected to return to top-level competition:
“He had a serious injury, and some thought he would be retired. That makes this victory even more special and it’s a true pride to see him in such form today. We try to adapt to him as much as possible; he rarely jumps at home. I am lucky to have such a horse, and this way of working seems to suit him perfectly.”
Behind the Moroccan hero, Saudi rider Abdulrahman Alrajhi once again demonstrated his consistency. Already third in yesterday’s 1.50m ranking class, he delivered a flawless double-clear round aboard Heartbeat W to claim a superb second place in the marquee event.
The third spot on the podium went to Ukrainian Anastasia Bondarieva, partnered with her faithful Calder. With a smooth and precise round, she completed a podium that perfectly reflects the diversity and quality of the field assembled in Tétouan.
After the class, course designer Cédric Longis praised Bennani Smires’ performance:
“His round was perfect. In the first round, he executed exactly what was required in terms of line, rhythm, and stride combinations. And in the jump-off, it was hard to imagine doing much better.”
Another Champion Spotlighted in the CSI1* Grand Prix (1.40m) – Prix de la Garde Royale
The final class of this stage highlighted a young Moroccan talent. Isaïe Abittan, crowned Moroccan Junior Champion just a few months ago, claimed victory with Girocco de Jarsay, confirming his rapid rise on the national and international scene.
On his first international win, he shared:
“My feeling was excellent, my horse gave everything. For the jump-off, he loves speed—I don’t even have to ask him. Winning here is very important: it’s always a pleasure to win at home, and it allows me to gain experience.”
Argentinian rider Ezequiel Andres Ferro Menendez, aboard Kylie, took an impressive second place after a clean and quick round. The podium was completed by another Moroccan, Abdennour Dahbi Skali, riding Entar de La Vigne, who delivered a solid performance to close this Tétouan stage.