Against the iconic backdrop of Miami Beach, Florida, Ireland’s Michael Duffy and Claptonn Mouche secured their first-ever Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix CSI5* victory on Saturday. The duo’s remarkable win was highlighted by their status as the sole double-clear of the day. 

Duffy dedicated his victory to his late friend, Irish show jumper Jack Dodd, who died after a car accident in 2018, during a tearful winner’s interview. The poignant moment added depth to an already extraordinary achievement, resonating with spectators and fellow competitors alike.

“It’s amazing, I’m a bit lost for words,” he said. “I’m not the biggest talker but even more so this time. I have no words.”

“It’s tough jumping here,” he added. “It is so delicate, with a white pole in the jump-off, and it was just delicate, so I wanted to be as quick as I can and leave the jumps up to get the job done.” 

The competition was intense, offering the audience a glimpse into the pinnacle of equestrian sport against the backdrop of one of the world’s most stunning arenas, set seaside with sand and ocean as a backdrop. The LGCT Grand Prix provided an unforgettable experience, blending the camaraderie of elite sportsmanship with the vibrant culture and sophistication of Miami Beach. 

Nine combinations made it into the jump-off, including U.S.-based Irishman Shane Sweetnam on RR Combella and Spain’s Eduardo Alvarez Aznar on his 19-year-old partner Rokfeller De Pleville Bois Margot, who ultimately finished fourth in what the rider said will be the horse’s final season to take the points lead after the second stage of the LGC Tour.

Duffy went in fourth from last on Claptonn Mouche, a 12-year-old Selle Francais gelding (Gaec Mouche—Planete Mouche, Elan De La Cour) owned by the rider and Stephex Stables. They stumbled early on and took a flyer to the last, sending the crowd into a frenzy of excitement as he punched the air after being the first rider to keep all the fences up.

Watch Duffy and Claptonn Mouche’s winning jump-off round:

When Aznar, Sweetnam and Sweden’s Malin Bayard-Johnsson, last to go on H&M Indiana, all picked up 4 faults, Duffy could celebrate.

Looking ahead, the LGCT Championship now moves to Mexico City for the third leg of the 2024 season, taking place April 11-14.

See complete results here.