Global Champions League of Mexico City winners - Shanghai Swans

GCL Championship Intensifies after sensational win for Shanghai Swans in Mexico City Image: GCL / Stefano Grasso The championship is accelerating following two nail-biting competitions in Miami Beach and Mexico City as teams chase points and prize money around the globe. The ranking battle has intensified, with Monaco Aces the new leaders, just one point ahead of Shanghai Swans, who in turn are one point ahead of Miami Beach winners Valkenswaard United. Miami Glory and Antwerp Diamonds are currently tied in fourth, just a further point away from the top three. As the Championship heads to Antwerp for the first European leg, the stakes are raised for all the teams as the momentum of the new format builds. Thousands of fans turned out for the new GCL team competition adding to the already colourful and exciting atmosphere at the show ground. The high-energy signature music of the teams, including tracks by Calvin Harris, Rihanna and Bruno Mars and theme music from Star Wars and 007, elevated the energy in the big arena. Javier Salvador, co-owner and manager of current GCL leaders Monaco Aces, said: "This is amazing for the sport and it is great to be part of a team and involved. It's having a huge impact on social media." Excited fans queued for autographs from the team riders and easily identified with the colourful polo shirts emblazoned with team names and logos. Scott Brash, of team Miami Glory said: "It's great for fans because even if they don't know about the sport they can identify with their own city.” In true Mexican style, the Global Champions League Teams were greeted with a boisterous welcome as they walked the course in preparation for the first round of the second leg of this revolutionary new team competition. It was a test until the last rail, but it was the graceful pair of Edwina Tops-Alexander (AUS) with the 12 year old gelding Ego van Orti and Janne-Friederike Meyer (GER) with the grey 11 year old mare Charlotta representing Shanghai Swans who finished with best score of the day.