Is Mr. Tac Set for a Comeback?

The Gothenburg Trophy Presented by Volvo is one of the most prestigious classes of the weekend. A total of 37 riders will line up for the competition.

“This is one of the toughest classes – around a 23 percent clear rate. You’re probably looking at eight or nine combinations making the jump-off,” says Sam Watson from Equiratings.

Among the starters are Willem Greve, Rolf-Göran Bengtsson, and Robert Whitaker – all former winners of the Gothenburg Trophy. One partnership arriving in particularly strong form is Harrie Smolders and Mr. Tac. The pair have jumped clear in 50 percent of their 14 starts over fences measuring 1.55 metres or higher.

Should Smolders face Brazilian rider Yuri Mansur in the jump-off, the statistics slightly favour the Brazilian. Mansur’s horse Vitiki is renowned for his exceptional speed in decisive rounds.

“Vitiki is a jump-off specialist. The combination has recorded ten clear rounds at this level, winning four times and finishing on the podium in six of those,” says Sam Watson.

A victory for Yuri Mansur would be historic, as no Brazilian rider has previously won the Gothenburg Trophy.

Thirteen of the riders in the field are Swedish, and several of them have strong chances of finishing among the top placings. Rolf-Göran Bengtsson, who won the class in 2019, once again looks a serious contender.

“Rolf-Göran Bengtsson is one of those riders who is always a factor here in Gothenburg. The crowd believes in him, the odds reflect the respect he commands, and if he makes the jump-off he immediately becomes a contender for the podium. This isn’t a surprise – it’s experience, routine, and Scandinavium all working together,” says Sam Watson.

Equiratings is the sport’s dedicated data and analytics system. A media guide for tonight’s class is attached.