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Laura Bechtolsheimer and Mistral Hojris break own record

Sarah Jenkins, H&H dressage editor

11 June, 2009

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Laura Bechtolsheimer’s Olympic ride Mistral Hojris broke his own record for the highest British international grand prix score, at Lingen CDI, Germany (5-7 June).

The pair scored 78.04% in the grand prix special — beating their previous record of 75.25% from ’s-Hertogenbosch CDI (NED) earlier this year.

Only German Olympic gold medallist Isabell Werth (Satchmo) beat Mistral Hojris in the grand prix and special.

Laura said: “Before the flying-changes he was absolutely flying on 82%. We had a small mistake in our changes as he got a little distracted, but it’s a close arena and overall I was delighted with him. He was relaxed, but totally on my aids — a dream to ride.”

Laura also won the grand prix for kür riding her father Wilfried’s Andretti H with a personal best of 71.31% . They were second in the kür with 74.20%.

“Andy went the best he’s ever gone in the grand prix,” said Laura. “He was thrilled with himself showing off his first placed rug to Alf [Mistral Hojris].”

Compatriot Fiona Bigwood was second to Laura in the grand prix for kür on her 10-year-old chestnut gelding Wie Atlantico, scoring 68.51%. Fiona and the former Spanish international team horse were also third in the kür with 73.45%.

International teams director Nick Burton said: “These are really exciting scores. Fiona and Wie Atlantico are growing in confidence every time out and producing pleasing results, while Laura’s fantastic achievements make her a very serious medal contender at future championships.”

Both riders are in contention for a place on the European team to be announced on 14 August.


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