Britain’s Tom McEwen and Brookfield Danny De Muze clinched the prestigious seven-year-old World Championship in the Le Lion d’Angers results last week (15-19 October), while the six-year-old class was awarded to Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Tara Van Het Leliehof.
Two-time Olympic gold medallist Tom was in second place after the cross-country with Chloe and John Perry and Alison Swinburn’s Irish Sports Horse by I’m Special De Muze. A clear showjumping round elevated them into first place after a rail cost long-time leaders Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Helios the win – and the Belgian rider a double victory.
“I felt we made a few mistakes on Thursday in the dressage, but he was brilliant yesterday and jumped foot-perfect today. He’s a very modern-day sport horse. He’s got a great gallop and a fantastic jump so for me he’s the full package,” said Tom.
Lara and the Belgian warmblood Tara Van Het Leliehof were second after the dressage in the six-year-old Le Lion d’Angers results. They rose to pole position after producing a clear cross-country and first-phase leaders Julia Krajewski and Ajana fell two fences from home.
The pair added just 0.4 of a time-penalty in the showjumping to triumph. It was Lara’s first victory at Le Lion after almost 20 appearances at these championships.
“It’s incredible – you work so hard for that. I knew the horse was exceptional, but there’s a difference between knowing it and doing it. It’s the judges liking your horse, a bit of luck on the course, and so many things you can’t control. It’s a sweet victory and I think she’s a superstar for the future,” said Lara.
Another competitor to enjoy a successful weekend was Ireland’s Ian Cassells who finished second with Rutland Flamenco in the six-year-old class and third with Noa W in the seven-year-old class.
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US rider Hallie Coon and Tykillen Tango rounded out the six-year-old podium, while best of the Brits in this class were Max Warburton and Monbeg Condor, who rose from 18th after dressage to finish fourth.
Le Lion d’Angers results
Seven-year-olds
Tom McEwen and Brookfield Danny De Muze (GBR)
Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Helios (BEL)
Ian Cassells and Noa W (IRL)
Six-year-olds
Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Tara Van Het Leliehof (BEL)
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Working on a freelance basis, Emily has attended a wide range of horse shows and events as Horse & Hound’s onsite reporter, as well as writing features for both the magazine and website since 2004. Emily assisted the British Horse Society with the launch of its national equestrian awards initiative, and also plays a key role in the press teams for major sporting events including Wimbledon and the London Marathon.
