France's Olivier Robert came out on top in the opening jumping competition at the World Equestrian Festival in Aachen in Germany today ©Getty Images

France's Olivier Robert came out on top in the opening jumping competition at the World Equestrian Festival in Aachen in Germany today.

Riding Vadrouille d'Avril, Robert clocked a time of 1 min 7.59sec at the event's Main Stadium.

The United States' Laura Kraut and her horse Berdenn de Kergane were the runners-up in 1:08.28.

Home favourite Marcus Ehning, riding Calanda 42, completed the top three in 1:10.27. 

A full list of results can be viewed by clicking here. 

The United States' Laura Kraut had to settle for second place ©Getty Images
The United States' Laura Kraut had to settle for second place ©Getty Images

Action in Aachen is due to continue tomorrow.

On Sunday (July 21), the best riders in the world will compete in the prestigious Rolex Grand Prix.

This will determine who will be the contenders for the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, which is considered the ultimate equestrian challenge.

Launched in 2013, it is the only initiative to reward the outstanding rider who wins majors consecutively, at four of the world's most historic shows.

The first of the four, the Dutch Masters, took place in March with the Spruce Meadows "Masters" in Canadian city Calgary and CHI (Concours Hippique International) Geneva in Switzerland scheduled for September and December, respectively.