Latest from Horse & Hound in Fei-world-cup-dressage

‘I think maybe a Jägerbomb’: Becky Moody and Jagerbomb claim World Cup title with personal best freestyle in Fort Worth

Oscar Williams — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 08:20:53 +0000

Becky Moody and Jagerbomb brought down the house at the Dickies Arena on Saturday night, scoring a personal best 88.33% in the grand prix freestyle to claim, in convincing fashion, the 2026 Zen Elite FEI Dressage World Cup – retaining the title for Great Britain and completing a remarkable week of firsts in Fort Worth, Texas.

Entering the arena as the final combination, with the title on the line, Becky and her home-bred partner performed to their now familiar Beatles-inspired freestyle – featuring All You Need is Love, Here Comes the Sun, and Come Together among others. Designed in Britain by Tony Hobden at Equidance, it drew standing ovations from a crowd that had been on its feet all evening.

The test was a statement of intent from the first stride. Four 9.5s and a 10 for their entrance and opening halt set the tone.

Each extension drew cheers, the curving lines of two-time changes into ones brought the crowd to its feet, and Becky was beaming on her final centre line – and with good reason. The judge at H awarded 90.24%.

Watch Becky Moody and Jagerbomb’s World Cup-winning freestyle in the video below

“Today, right from the get-go, he was just so focused and so with me,” Becky said. “The beauty of the freestyle is that you can showcase your horse’s strengths – he finds the changes on the curved lines very easy, and because he is good in the balance, he can go from one movement to another without a struggle.”

Christian Simonson and Indian Rock finished second on 83.81%, with Sandra Sysojeva and Maxima Bella third on 80.77%. The 2024 champions Patrik Kittel and Touchdown scored 80.26% to finish just off the podium. The win was worth €60,500 in prize money.

The result crowned a debut week that neither Becky nor Jagerbomb will forget – the pair had never flown to a competition before the trip to Texas, and the grand prix win on Thursday set the tone for what followed.

“I’ve never ridden in an arena like that,” Becky said. “It’s just insane to be part of such a cool competition. The crowd was absolutely something else.”

There was emotion elsewhere in the arena, too. Morgan Barbançon shared after her test that it would be her final competitive ride with Sir Donnerhall II OLD, the 20-year-old who will now retire from sport.

Christian was riding on the crest of a wave of home support. His Rocky-themed freestyle – complete with Eye of the Tiger and Gonna Fly Now, chosen to reflect what he described as “the hero’s journey”, was perfectly pitched for the Texas crowd, who roared through every stride.

“At the end of my test, looking up and seeing this wall of people standing up, applauding Rocky and me was super special,” he said. “It’s something I’ll never forget.”

As for Becky, the celebrations were already being planned. Asked how she intended to mark the occasion, she didn’t hesitate. “I will be going to find a drink later, definitely,” she said. “I think maybe a Jägerbomb.”

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‘He’s my pride and joy’: Becky Moody and Jagerbomb get off to a flying start on their World Cup Final debut

Oscar Williams — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 10:01:45 +0000

Pre-competition favourites Becky Moody and Jagerbomb made an immediate impact on their Zen Elite FEI Dressage World Cup Final debut, topping the grand prix last night (9 April) at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, with a score of 76.76%.

The European team silver medallists impressed a packed Texan crowd from the outset, the combination settling quickly into their stride in the vast arena.

Becky described the performance as close to what she had hoped for. “I had that nice balance of energy, but with relaxation as well,” she said.

“I always say, he’s not exceptional at anything, but he is just really good at everything. He’s a joy to ride in an arena like that, and it was an amazing crowd.

“It was a little distracting at the beginning when you’re going around, and you’re in the zone and someone’s hollering ‘We love your outfit’ though!”

Watch Becky Moody and Jagerbomb’s grand prix in the video below

Home favourites Christian Simonson and Indian Rock finished not too far behind in second on 75.41%, with 2024 World Cup champions Patrik Kittel and Touchdown third on 72.87%.

Christian, aged 23, was one of the youngest riders in the field and was candid about what the occasion meant to him.

“It feels a bit surreal to even say that I’m here at a World Cup Final,” he said. “Rocky was amazing tonight – he is just so dependable. I love him so much.”

Patrik, making his 11th World Cup Finals appearance, had nothing but admiration for the leader.

“Becky’s horse looks really happy,” he said. “He looks in such great harmony – the neck is beautiful, it’s beautiful in the mouth. It just looks so harmonious, and that’s what we want to see in the sport today.”

The result is particularly meaningful as Becky and Jagerbomb were navigating genuinely unfamiliar territory in Texas, and the decision to make the trip was not taken lightly.

“I had never flown a horse before, and he had never flown before, so that was a factor in my decision-making,” Becky said.

“I wanted that experience, and for him to have that experience, and I’m really glad I did. We definitely learned things. This is just an amazing opportunity to come to such a fantastic place, and it’s so cool to be surrounded by such a strong equine culture [in Texas] that is completely different to anything I’ve experienced before.”

She added that having bred Jagerbomb herself more than 12 years ago, the personal investment adds a particular dimension to every success.

“When you have bred them, it just adds that little bit of extra,” she said. “I don’t have any children, so he is my child. He’s just my pride and joy.”

She is not resting on the performance, however, identifying small errors in the rein back and pirouettes that she will look to address ahead of Saturday’s grand prix freestyle, which will decide the 2026 World Cup champion.

All 16 combinations scored above 60% to qualify for Saturday’s freestyle, which begins at 7pm CST (1am, Sunday British time) and will determine the World Cup champion.

Becky and Jagerbomb drew the final starting position and will be the last combination down the centre line, with the World Cup title theirs to take.

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How to watch the FEI World Cup Finals of Dressage and Jumping

georgia.guerin@futurenet.com (Georgia Guerin) — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:43:23 +0000

Watch the FEI World Cup Finals of Dressage and Jumping this week and catch the world’s best at the most prestigious annual international series for the two sports.

This year the FEI World Cup Dressage and FEI World Cup Jumping Finals are being held in Fort Worth, Texas. In the dressage, we’ll have eyes on the sole British finalist Becky Moody. And in the jumping, this year has the potential to be the first time a rider wins the title for a fourth time, with Swiss rider Steve Guerdat having won previously in 2015, 2016 and 2019.

At a glance

FEI World Cup Final dates: 9–12 April 2026
Live stream: FEI TV, hosted by ClipMyHorse.TV
Watch FEI World Cup Final from anywhere: Use this NordVPN deal – 75% Off

How to watch FEI World Cup Final live stream

Live action will be shown on FEI TV, which is hosted by ClipMyHorse.TV. You can also watch a repeat on demand, which will be really useful with the time difference.

Commentary will be available in English, German, Dutch, French or Norwegian.

FEI World Cup Final schedule

The FEI World Cup Finals are being held in Texas, which works on Central Daylight Time (currently six hours behind British Summer Time).

Dressage

Thursday 9 April: grand prix starts at 7pm CDT (1am BST on Friday, coverage starts at 11:45pm)

Saturday 11 April: freestyle starts at 7pm CDT (1am BST on Friday, coverage starts at 11:45pm)

Showjumping

Thursday 9 April: competition I starts at 1:30pm CDT (7:30pm BST, coverage starts at 6:45pm)

Friday 10 April: competition II starts at 6:20pm CDT (12:10am BST on Saturday, coverage starts at 11:45pm)

Sunday 12 April: competition III starts at 11:30am CDT (5:30pm BST, coverage starts at 4:45pm)

How to watch the FEI World Cup Final from anywhere

If you’re away from home and your normal coverage is geo-blocked, a VPN will get you your usual coverage from anywhere in the world.

There are many VPN providers out there, with some more reliable and safe than others. We’d suggest using a paid-for service such as NordVPN, where you can get an exclusive 75% off, which offers a 100% risk-free money back guarantee. If you’re not happy with the service any time within the first 30-days, then you can cancel with no penalties at all.

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Charlotte Dujardin pulls out of World Cup Final as Becky Moody carries British hopes

Oscar Williams — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 16:24:11 +0000

Charlotte Dujardin has withdrawn from the 2026 FEI Dressage World Cup Final in Fort Worth, Texas (8-12 April).

Charlotte had secured one of two additional starting places at the competition after title defender Lottie Fry declined her automatic spot. Justin Verboomen, Isabell Werth, Larissa Pauluis and Marieke van der Putten had also all turned down their qualification spots.

Charlotte qualified under FEI rules as the highest-ranked rider on the dressage world ranking list who had competed in at least two qualifiers but had not already qualified through the western European league. She had contested two qualifiers with Alive And Kicking, finishing fifth in London and sixth in Amsterdam.

Her withdrawal is one of several across the World Cup Finals as a whole; in the showjumping, Germany’s Philipp Schulze Topphoff and Latvia’s Kristaps Neretnieks have also pulled out. Germany’s Raphael Netz will no longer be riding Great Escape Camelot, but instead his reserve ride, Sonja Kristina Krall’s 13-year-old stallion DSP Dieudonne.

As the definite entries deadline has passed, Charlotte’s place will not be reallocated, and there will be 17 combinations competing.

The final field in Fort Worth will be headed by Becky Moody, who will be the sole British dressage representative.

Riding Jagerbomb, she will enter as favourite to take the crown, having posted the highest average qualifying score among those travelling, after a campaign in which they came second in London and Lyon and third in Amsterdam.

The 2024 champion Patrik Kittel with Touchdown and home favourite Christian Simonson with Indian Rock are among those expected to challenge.

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Charlotte Dujardin and Becky Moody confirmed for 2026 Dressage World Cup Final as other big names stay at home

Oscar Williams — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:41:21 +0000

The 2026 FEI Dressage World Cup Final entries for the competition in Fort Worth, Texas (April 8-12) have been released, and a host of European riders have declined to compete.

Several of the western European league’s qualifying top nine won’t be making the trip, including league winner Justin Verboomen, Isabell Werth, Larissa Pauluis and Marieke van der Putten. Defending champion Lottie Fry has also declined her automatic spot.

Most are prioritising this summer’s World Championships in Aachen over the flight to the US.

Becky Moody gambled on contesting just three qualifiers – finishing second in London and Lyon, and third in Amsterdam – and it has paid off. As a rider’s four best scores count, her 54-point tally from three outings secured seventh place in the western European league and an automatic spot in Fort Worth.

Charlotte Dujardin, who contested just two qualifiers – finishing fifth in London and sixth in Amsterdam – finished 25th in the league but will still compete with Alive And Kicking.

She secured one of two additional starting places created after Lottie declined her automatic spot, allocated under a rule awarding an extra place to the highest-ranked rider on the FEI dressage world ranking list who has competed in at least two qualifiers but not already qualified through the league.

But it will be Becky and Jagerbomb who will enter as favourites, having posted the highest average score in qualifying among those travelling.

Charlotte, who pipped Becky to second place in the London grand prix, will be expected to challenge, as will 2024 winner Patrik Kittel with Touchdown. Christian Simonson and Indian Rock will be ones to watch on home soil.

2026 FEI Dressage World Cup Final entries in full

Patrik Kittel (SWE) with 14-year-old gelding Touchdown

Owner: Sommarkvarn AB

Breeding: by Quaterback, out of a mare by Sack

Raphael Netz (GER) with 15-year-old gelding Great Escape Camelot

Owner: Theres Boss and Sonja Kristina Krall

Breeding: by Johnson out of a mare by Turbo Magic

Becky Moody (GBR) with 12-year-old gelding Jagerbomb

Owner: rider and Jo Cooper

Breeding: by Dante Weltino out of a mare by Jazz

Thamar Zweistra (NED) with 11-year-old gelding Kingsdale

Owner: Marieke Ponzo Dieu – De Pundert

Breeding: by Everdale out of a mare by Negro

Morgan Barbançon (FRA) with 20-year-old stallion Sir Donnerhall II

Owner: rider and Marie Carmen Mestre Pons

Breeding: by Sandro Hit out of a mare by Donnerhall

Carina Cassøe Krüth (DEN) with 15-year-old mare Heiline’s Danciera

Owner: Poul Thøgersen

Breeding: by Fürstenball out of a mare by De Niro

Bettina Kendlbacher (AUT) with 13-year-old gelding Broadmoars Don Alfredo

Owner: Broadmoar KG

Breeding: by Destano out of a mare by His Highness 2

Alexa Fairchild (BEL) with 15-year-old gelding Fairplay

Owner: rider

Breeding: by Delatio out of a mare by Krack C

Moritz Treffinger (GER) with 17-year-old stallion Fiderdance

Owner: Gestüt Bonhomme GmbH & Co.KG

Breeding: by Fidertanz out of a mare by Blue Hors Don Schufro

Sandra Sysojeva (POL) with 10-year-old mare Maxima Bella

Owner: rider, Dominika Krasko Bialek and Piet Lenskens

Breeding: by Millenium out a mare by Christ 3

Justina Vanagaite-Samuile (LTU) with 13-year-old gelding Nabab

Owner: rider, Ramunas Bogdanas and Jurga Girniute-Bogdaniene

Breeding: by Sir Donovan out of a mare by Krack C

Serena Ireland (AUS) with 14-year-old gelding Royalty R

Owner: rider

Breeding: unregistered

Christian Simonson (USA) with 13-year-old stallion Indian Rock

Owner: Zen Elite Equestrian Centre

Breeding: by Apache out of a mare by Vivaldi

Brittany Fraser-Beaulieu (CAN) with 12-year-old gelding Jaccardo

Owner: Jill Irving

Breeding: by Desperado out of a mare by Jazz

Kevin Kohmann (USA) with 17-year-old gelding Duenensee

Owner: Diamante Farms

Breeding: by Dancier out of a mare by Daivgnon I

Yassine Rahmouni (MAR) with 15-year-old gelding Kind of Magic

Owner: Joy Nouvelle Greets

Breeding: by All At Once out of a mare by Jazz

Julio Mendoza Loor (ECU) with 15-year-old gelding Jewel’s Goldstrike

Owner: rider and Jessica Mendoza

Breeding: by Bretton Woods out of a mare by Scandic

Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) with 12-year-old mare Alive And Kicking

Owner: rider

Breeding: by All At Once out of a mare by Fürst Piccolo 2

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‘I plan to enjoy every moment’: Annabella Pidgley and Pumpkin make World Cup debut and look ahead to the future

Becky Murray — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 15:41:47 +0000

Annabella Pidgley and her European gold medallist Gio have made their World Cup debut.

The pair finished seventh in the Neumunster grand prix in Germany on Saturday (14 February), scoring 70.70%. The class was won by Belgium’s Justin Verboomen and rising star Djembe De Hus Old, who scored 76.83%.

Annabella told H&H the test “felt amazing”.

“Since ‘Pumpkin’ moved to Denmark he just feels better and better. He is in really top shape at the moment and brings so much power into the ring,” she said.

“He is my horse of a lifetime and to have all these first special experiences with him means everything to me. He’s the best.”

Gio spent much of 2025 in the UK while Annabella was in Denmark, which Annabella had said was owing to her plan to focus on Vamos Amigos for the season. He has since joined her and the pair last competed at the Aarhus CDI3* in December, where they were second in both the grand prix and special, with +71% scores.

“He’s settled in so well. Coming from my quiet home set-up, you never know how they’ll be but he absolutely loves it,” said Annabella.

“I think he’s the smallest horse we have at Helgstrand, but he thinks he’s the king of the place. He is so fresh at the moment and the vibrant and energetic atmosphere suits him well.”

Aarhus was Annabella and Gio’s only competition of 2025 and their first since the young rider and U25 European Championships at St Margarethen, Austria, in July 2024. The pair were part of the under-25 team that came fourth, and won individual silver and freestyle gold.

Looking ahead, 21-year-old Annabella said Pumpkin will have another international outing soon.

“My plan is to have fun, gain experience and most importantly listen to what Pumpkin feels ready for. He is such a show horse and loves to be the centre of attention at the big shows so I can’t wait to enter more big arenas with him,” said Annabella.

“I plan to enjoy every moment. I would love to gain more experience in the senior classes and he teaches me so much. I have very exciting young horses and I think it’s so special to be able to do these big shows with Pumpkin to gain the experience and take everything I’m learning to use in my training with the younger horses.”

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‘I did feel some nerves today’: Lottie Fry and Glamourdale fly to World Cup victory in Amsterdam

Oscar Williams — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:05:55 +0000

Lottie Fry and Glamourdale continued their return to top form with victory in the World Cup qualifier in Amsterdam presented by Vriendenloterij, scoring an impressive 89.31%.

Olympic individual silver and European bronze medallist Isabell Werth finished second with Wendy de Fontaine and Becky Moody completed the podium with Jagerbomb.

The result mirrored the grand prix podium from the previous day, when Lottie and Isabell were separated by less than a percentage point, setting the scene for a closely fought deciding freestyle.

Drawn first of the final group, Lottie and Glamourdale set the benchmark with their now familiar flying-themed freestyle. The pair delivered a fluent, mistake-free test, earning eights across the board for the early piaffe and passage and a string of 10s for the canter work.

The score proved a formidable target for those still to come, and was Lottie’s highest freestyle mark since her World Cup win in ’s-Hertogenbosch last March.

Watch Lottie Fry and Glamourdale’s winning freestyle at the World Cup qualifier in Amsterdam in the video below

“I’m usually not nervous before competitions, but today I did feel some nerves after my test, knowing Isabell and Becky were still to ride,” Lottie said. “But a strong field like this only gives me extra motivation. It really makes you raise your game.

“I trust Glamourdale completely, and if the crowd gets loud for the combination before us, he has no problem walking into an arena like this.”

On the 15-year-old stallion’s return to form – underlined by successive grand prix scores of 80% or higher for the first time since 2022 – Lottie added: “We’re really finding the right balance now between all that power and enough relaxation.”

Becky and Jagerbomb followed with their upbeat Beatles freestyle, reverting to the music after a brief foray into Christmas tunes at London International. The complex floorplan allows little let-up, but Jagerbomb’s mistake-free test earned 85.31%.

Isabell Werth and Wendy de Fontaine at the 2026 World Cup qualifier in Amsterdam. (Image credit: FEI/Leanjo de Koster)

Last to go was Isabell, who made a late decision to bring Wendy de Fontaine instead of DSP Quantaz. The pair opened with high-scoring piaffe-passage work, but a costly error in the two-time changes proved decisive, knocking their score back to 87.58%.

“After Frankfurt and Basel, I felt that Wendy and I still had a few things to fine-tune, so I decided to ride her here,” explained Isabell. “We’ve learned a lot in the last two shows, and I can really feel her gaining more strength and muscle. The canter work was already better today than last time, but we’re not quite there yet.”

Although Lottie took the win, Isabell collected the full 20 World Cup points in Amsterdam, as Lottie is automatically qualified for the final as the defending champion.

Continuing her return to top-level competition, Charlotte Dujardin and Alive And Kicking slipped from fifth in the grand prix (73.04%) to sixth in the freestyle (79.96%), but the inexperienced 12-year-old mare impressed with her polished piaffe work, despite a couple of green mistakes.

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Olympic champion wins on World Cup circuit with exciting rising star

Lucy Elder — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:56:44 +0000

Olympic champion Jessica von Bredow-Werndl showed she has a star in the making in Diallo BB.

The pair won both the grand prix and the freestyle at the World Cup leg in Stuttgart, in Jessica’s first World Cup victory since the retirement of her phenomenal long-term partner TSF Dalera BB.

Diallo BB, a Hannoverian gelding by Dancier, has enjoyed a superb first year at international grand prix, scoring seven wins from nine starts since his debut in April – including his triumphs in Stuttgart.

Watch Jessica von Bredow-Werndl’s winning freestyle with Diallo BB below

“I don’t think I’ve realised it yet! I’m so proud, especially after yesterday, when he was really hot and excited,” said Jessica, who described Diallo BB as a “little powder keg”, after their grand prix test.

“I didn’t know what to expect today, and I couldn’t be happier and prouder of him than I am today,” she said. “Everything is the first time for him – he hasn’t had a crowd like this before, and especially when we finished our ride, he was so proud. I didn’t expect him to leave the arena so self-confident, and this makes me even more happy.”

Jessica always channels such artistry in her freestyle music and choreography choices. Fans will have recognised returning riffs of Magic Moments, L-O-V-E and Big Spender from her archive, and the remixed adaptation was well suited to Diallo BB.

“This music also suits Diallo perfectly. We made a few small adjustments, but it feels wonderful to ride to these sounds again,” said Jessica.

“In the freestyle I could enjoy every single step down the final centre line. Diallo was so relaxed, yet still so powerful.

“After a pretty difficult and hot start in the grand prix yesterday, I didn’t expect him to be so focused today. I was so proud of him, because this arena is very electric.”

The 10-year-old, owned by Béatrice Buerchler-Keller who part-owned Dalera, and Annette Göbelsmann-Schweitzer, earned a new freestyle personal best of 83.095% from the judges to win by almost three per cent.

Raphael Netz, who was based with Jessica for eight years before setting up on his own in 2024, was second with Great Escape Camelot (80.765%).Sweden’s Patrik Kittel finished third with his 2024 World Cup Final winner Touchdown (79.620%).

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Unstoppable Justin Verboomen and Zonik Plus dance to personal best at World Cup qualifier in Lyon

Oscar Williams — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 18:56:28 +0000

Reigning European champions and current world number ones Justin Verboomen and Zonik Plus extended their extraordinary run of form with a commanding win in the FEI Dressage World Cup qualifier grand prix at Equita Lyon – breaking the 80% barrier for the first time with a personal best of 81.2%. The result smashes their previous mark of 79.08%, set at the European Dressage Championships in Crozet just two months ago.

It’s the sixth consecutive personal best for the Belgian pair, whose grand prix scores have risen by almost seven percentage points since the start of 2025 – an astonishing rate of progress at this level.

For context, Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro’s world record of 87.46%, set at the London World Cup qualifier in 2014, still stands as the sport’s benchmark.

Whether Justin and Zonik Plus can eventually reach that territory remains to be seen – particularly in an era of more conservative scoring – but at just nine years old, the stallion’s trajectory suggests there’s still plenty more to come. On current form, they look every bit the best combination in the world right now.

“Every time he goes out in a competition, he matures, and I feel he’s still improving,” Justin said. “After the European Championships, I tried to work a bit more with Zonik at home, in really peaceful conditions.

“As much as possible, I tried to release the tension and pressure that had built up over previous events. I think it paid off in the grand prix, because he was super relaxed.”

Zonik’s piaffe and passage were soft, uphill, and beautifully balanced, earning several nines and even a 10 from the Dutch judge at C, Francis Verbeek-van Rooy, for the final piaffe on the centre line.

But it was his pirouettes that stole the show – perfectly centred and controlled – with two more 10s awarded across the board. A slight hesitation in the one-time changes and a brief loss of rhythm in the transition from walk to passage were the only blemishes in an otherwise flowing, expressive test. Even then, those moments still scored sevens – the lowest mark on their sheet.

“Pride is the overwhelming feeling I have after this class, above and beyond the personal record,” Justin added. “I’m really proud of my horse. He is very sensitive and gives a lot. He’s always had this ability to really focus on me and my encouragements. So, we’ve tried to build on that over the years.

“Last year, on the indoor circuits, he got very hot and was affected by the atmosphere. But here the arena is wide and open, so it’s really nice to ride here.”

Britain’s Becky Moody and Jagerbomb were next into the arena, and would have needed to beat their own personal best by more than 4% to win. Jagerbomb impressed with some massive changes, scoring 8.5s, and his movements from the extended trot into the final centre line helped lift their mark – Becky always finishes strong.

Catching Justin and Zonik Plus was always going to be a stretch, but Becky’s polished round saw them into second on 76.2%, almost exactly matching their season average. Poland’s Sandra Sysojeva completed the podium with Maxima Bella, scoring 72.63%.

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‘While our first priority is always horse welfare, we also want to save our sport’: independent group flags ‘systemic’ issues at jumping and dressage World Cup Finals

Oscar Williams — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 18:21:42 +0000

Issues with double bridles, jumping in draw reins and a shift away from classical techniques are among concerns raised at the World Cup Finals – as stewards aim to protect horse welfare and “save our sport”.

Independent welfare group R-Haltenswert was invited to the event in Basel (2–6 April), to monitor the warm-up arenas, observe the stewards and report on their findings.

The show’s organisers said beforehand this was part of a zero-tolerance approach to misconduct, specifically targeting actions that compromise horse welfare.

“We want to offer our main players, the horses, the best conditions so they feel comfortable with us,” said Thomas Straumann, president of directors for organisers Longines CHI Classics Basel. “We ask all officials, including our staff, to look closely, not look away.”

R-Haltenswert’s lead representative, André Hascher, told H&H there were positives and concerns.

“What’s positive is that we have an organising committee who did what they said and were totally behind us,” he said. “The organisers opened all the doors, there was nothing hidden. I hope many other competition organisers follow their example.

“The negative is that sections of the audience showed there are some riders they didn’t want to look at. You could hear it [some combinations were whistled] in the arena.

“While our first priority is always horse welfare, we also want to save our sport, to have further World Cup Finals and Olympics, and if we ride and act in a way that a normal audience can’t follow us, and don’t agree with how we treat the horses, we won’t have a future.”

Although R-Haltenswert’s equine quality control (EQC) stewards – Falk Stankus, Jonathan Marquardt and Marcel Egger – had no authority to eliminate riders or intervene directly, they were, by day three, included in direct communications with the chief stewards and lead vet, enabling them to escalate “urgent” concerns.

“Whenever we had a concern, the stewards came directly and listened to us, which was perfect,” Mr Hascher said. “However, what they did afterward wasn’t consistent.

“Sometimes it was a good response, sometimes it was too little. For example, we had an urgent concern about a showjumping horse with a noseband that was much too tight, in our opinion. When one of the stewards came, he was looking but didn’t really do anything and just said it was in accordance with the rules.

“We disagreed and said there should be a two-finger check [the FEI’s noseband measuring device roll-out has been delayed until May] but for some reason, he refused to do it.”

Warm-up footage

R-Haltenswert also set up an exhibition stand, streaming live footage from the warm-up and lungeing arenas for the public to observe.

In the dressage warm-up, stewards appeared proactive, frequently asking grooms to wipe foam from horses’ mouths before they entered the ring. But Mr Hascher highlighted concerns with tack and technique.

“In the dressage warm-up, I noticed that many nosebands were not correct, and there are ongoing problems with the double bridle and curb chain,” he said.

“We strongly requested that one horse be checked again for its curb bit, and this was done immediately. However, the way it was checked was flawed – and in our opinion, there’s a partial lack of expertise among the stewards.

“What was also a pity is that many riders started well in the first 20 minutes; they often had a good seat, good rhythm, and control. But then they seemed to enter ‘competition mode’, and everything became tense.

“They pushed the horses more, raised them too high, and lost the swing in the back – and I think that was visible in the arena.”

Classical principles

Mr Hascher also noted a shift away from classical riding principles.

“We don’t see so much classical riding any more,” he said. “It’s become more mechanical, more show dressage.”

Mr Hascher raised concerns over riders jumping in draw reins.

“I’ve never seen anything like it before, and I was really taken aback,” he said. “They were using very sharp bits alongside draw reins to jump 1.60m in the warm-up – it felt quite extreme.

“Nothing happened, but it’s really not good. A lot of the riders weren’t paying attention to their horses; some were sitting with one hand on the draw reins, the other on their mobile phones, not watching their colleagues or focusing on the horse.”

Although he was pleased with the access he was allowed, Mr Hascher expressed frustration with what he found.

“I knew things wouldn’t change just because our EQCs were present,” he said. “But we had hoped to see only occasional, accidental mistakes. Instead, many of the problems we observed felt systemic.”

An FEI spokesperson told H&H the FEI “established clear reporting lines” to ensure any feedback from R-Haltenswert was communicated to FEI stewards, and reviewed by the relevant FEI director on-site, then officials, who have “rigorous training and extensive experience”.

“The FEI recognises that external expertise can contribute to discussions on horse welfare and that constructive feedback is essential for the continual evolution of our sport,” he said. “However, we maintain that all official decisions, concerning horse welfare, field-of-play matters or disciplinary actions, remain under the exclusive jurisdiction of FEI officials.

“We are proud of the high standards FEI stewards upheld in Basel. Their expertise is continuously developed, ensuring they remain at the forefront of best practices in horse welfare.

“We respectfully disagree with any suggestion that questions the capability of the FEI stewards in Basel. The FEI directors were pleased to offer additional clarification to representatives of R-Haltenswert on certain aspects of FEI rules and procedures to provide a more complete context for their observations.”

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Legacy! Unstoppable Lottie Fry and Glamourdale storm to World Cup Final victory in Basel

Oscar Williams — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 22:27:04 +0000

They’ve shone on every major stage: world champions, Olympic bronze medallists, European champions – and now, World Cup winners. With grace, grit, and ice-cool composure, Lottie Fry and Glamourdale have etched their names into the history of every one of dressage’s greatest championships, scoring 88.2% to win the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup Final.

After a commanding win in the grand prix qualifier, they carried the weight of expectation into the final – and few venues test a partnership more than Basel’s St Jakobshalle.

Flanked by vertiginous grandstands and banks of bright flowers, the arena atmosphere had ruffled Glamourdale in the opening test, Lottie admitted.

But truth be told, they never looked like wavering, finishing comfortably ahead of Isabell Werth on DSP Quantaz in second (84.37%) and Isabel Freese on Total Hope OLD in third (81.85%).

“Every competition on Glamourdale is special, but the World Cup has always been a big dream, so to win it is very special – it’s not something that happens very often,” Lottie told Horse & Hound.

“We were confident going in, and we both felt very determined and ready for it today, so when I entered the arena, it was an amazing feeling – he grows when he goes in there.

“I had an amazing ride. He was with me each step, and it’s the most amazing feeling when it all comes together. It’s such a team effort from everyone at Van Olst, it wouldn’t be possible without every single one of them because when it all comes together, it’s as much their win as mine – I’m just very grateful to be in this position.”

Lottie Fry riding Glamourdale during the freestyle at the FEI World Cup Finals 2025. (Image credit: FEI/Benjamin Clark)

On her preparations for the test, and whether she lets outside noise affect her, Lottie added: “In the buildup we’re full concentration on Glammy, and making sure all his needs are catered for, and we do everything to make sure he’s in the best shape possible – and he’s still loving it, and that’s the most important thing for me.”

How the early riders fared

Hungary’s Anikó Komjáthy-Losonczy and Dior S (Spielberg x Florestan) got the action underway, and what a charming start it was. The 17-year-old gelding didn’t bat an eyelid at the atmosphere, looking as relaxed as if he were out for a quiet hack. He may not have matched the expression of some of his rivals, but if there’d been a prize for the horse spectators would most like to take home, he’d surely have been a contender.

America’s Genay Vaughn and the talented Gino (Bretton Woods x Haarlem) were next to go, aiming to recover from a tough first test where Gino got his tongue over the bit and scored 62.98%. And recover they did. There was still the odd moment of tension, but Genay rode boldly, allowing Gino to open up in the piaffe and passage.

Their crowd-pleasing medley – featuring Earth, Wind & Fire’s Fantasy and Fresh Prince of Bel-Air – earned 73.65%. A touch below their personal best, but an impressive score for their World Cup Final debut, especially coming from America’s smaller west coast circuit.

Eventual ninth-place finishers Pauline Basquin and Sertorius de Rima Z Ifce led the way going into the break, scoring 77.06% despite errors in the one-time changes. There was a notable spread in the judging, with Pauline’s marks ranging from a low of 73.93% to a high of 79.05%.

Isabell Werth and DSP Quantaz ride a line of changes during the FEI World Cup Finals 2025. (Image credit: FEI/Benjamin Clark)

That variance was particularly noticeable during Adrienne Lyle’s test with Helix, who followed after the break. Adrienne has great faith in the 13-year-old gelding, but he is known to be sensitive, and the lively atmosphere in Basel unsettled him. He showed tension, surging in both the extended trot and two-time changes, and never quite found his rhythm.

It became an exercise in damage limitation for Adrienne, who lost the length of neck and when the scores flashed up on the big screen, the crowd – vocal throughout the night – reacted with dissenting whistles to a 74.18% from the judge at H, American Michael Osinski. Their final score of 71.26% placed them second-to-last in the rankings – the audience scoring had them at 65.11%.

The battle at the top

Defending champion Patrik Kittel and Forever Young HRH were next in, and in contrast, they were a picture of harmony. A small mistake in the first piaffe briefly interrupted their flow, but they recovered smoothly in the subsequent attempts to finish fifth overall on 80.12%.

Patrik is known for his great music choices, and debuting a new routine tonight, he cleverly wove in David Guetta, Avicii and Alphaville’s aptly named Forever Young. Clearly delighted as he left the arena, he punched the air in celebration, and the crowd responded with enthusiasm.

Isabel Freese and Total Hope OLD were the first big threats to Lottie and Glamourdale to go, scoring 81.85% to take the provisional lead.

“I’m over the moon with him – he exceeded my expectations,” she said. “We had a little bit of a difficult start yesterday, so I was a bit nervous, but in a healthy way. Today, though, he was 100% with me, and I was able to enjoy my ride. I got the feeling he got better and better as he went on.”

Isabel Freese riding Total Hope Old to third, behind Isabell Werth (DSP Quantaz) and Lottie Fry (Glamourdale) at the FEI World Cup Finals 2025. (Image credit: FEI/Benjamin Clark)

Lottie was next to go, and Glamourdale straight from the off looked more confident than yesterday, with his early piaffe and passage work getting off without a hitch.

No one else can match the spectacular, raw physicality of his canter work, and in a setting like this, it affords him the opportunity to make a mistake or two and not be punished for it. By the time a slight mistake crept in during the final piaffe pirouette, the win was already assured.

Sandra Sysojeva (Maxima Bella), Isabell Werth (DSP Quantaz) and suprise-package Corentin Pottier (Gotilas du Feuillard) followed, but each would have needed to considerably outscore their recent personal bests to challenge Lottie and Glamourdale.

Isabell went closest, scoring 84.35%, demonstrating her excellent musicality, with Bonnie Tyler’s Total Eclipse of the Heart playing as she turned into her pirouettes – scoring 10s across the board for her interpretations of the music.

“I’m very happy – Quantaz improved a lot from yesterday, when I had to be a bit careful,” Isabell said. “Today, I was still holding him a bit at first, but he settled, and he was much more open, and I was very happy with the whole piaffe-passage tour and the canter work – even the walk was quite good!

“I’ll hopefully now have a nice evening at the bar, and then we’ll prepare for the outdoor season.”

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‘I really had to give him confidence today’: Lottie Fry and Glamourdale seize victory in opening round of World Cup Final

Oscar Williams — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 16:27:01 +0000

Lottie Fry and Glamourdale won the opening round of the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois FEI Dressage World Cup Final, scoring 77.15% to win the grand prix.

The pair arrived in Basel as firm favourites, with DSP Quantaz (Isabell Werth), Total Hope OLD (Isabel Freese), Maxima Bella (Sandra Sysojeva), and Flambeau (Larissa Pauluis) the only other current top-10 ranked horses joining the line-up, and they entered the arena full of purpose.

There was a brief moment of concern when Glamourdale stumbled at K after the second medium trot, which seemed to leave him slightly unsettled heading into the piaffe. But the timing of the walk worked in their favour, allowing him to regroup.

With a brief shake of the head to reset, he settled back into his rhythm and despite being a little underpowered in the piaffe, he soared through the canter work, drawing gasps from the crowd with his extended canter – which is always excellent but seemed to have a little extra feeling today, picking up four nines and a 10 from Ulrike Nivelle at B.

“He was definitely a little more impressed with this arena than he was with previous World Cup arenas,” said Lottie. “I don’t think he quite took a liking to the high seating and the amazing wall of flowers – he even whinnied to the crowd when he went in. So I really had to give him some confidence today, but he trusted me, and I’m so proud of him.

“We still had some amazing moments, I’m very happy with the changes and a lot of the trot work, and it’s always such an amazing feeling to sit on Glamourdale in these huge atmospheres; he’s mid breeding season as well, which I think shows what an amazing character he has.”

Isabell Werth riding DSP Quantaz to second in the FEI Dressage World Cup Final grand prix. (Image credit: FEI/Benjamin Clark)

On her expectations for the freestyle, Lottie added: “I just think about enjoying it to be honest, and giving Glammy every opportunity to be as amazing as he can be, and usually when we aim for that, we also do well, so hopefully it all goes to plan.”

Rivals keep the pressure on

All 17 horses passed the vet inspection and made it down the centre line, though there was a nervous wait for Corentin Pottier’s Gotilas du Feuillard, who had to be reinspected and re-shod this morning (4 April) after a knock in his final training session. Brazilian combination Renderson Silva De Oliveira and his Lusitano stallion Fogoso Campline were late withdrawals.

Although it is hard to call anything in dressage low stakes these days, the opening round of the FEI Dressage World Cup Final had a more relaxed feel.

As just 60% was needed to qualify for the freestyle, which decides the title, most riders played it safe. Few pushed the boundaries, and many opted for safer lines over precision to the markers, keeping their powder dry for the all-important final round which gets underway tomorrow (5 April) at 4.30pm UK time.

Of the chasing pack, less than 0.6% separated the rest of the top five. Isabell Werth and DSP Quantaz – who were second in the last two World Cup Finals and were winners at this venue in the qualifier in January – were second at 74.85%.

“I’m pleased with Quantaz because he’s not been as easy the last couple of days and a bit unconcentrated, so I was happy to be without any big mistakes,” said Isabell, who is making her 26th World Cup Final appearance. “I knew if everything went well I could get second place, and it worked.”

On whether she still feels nerves despite her experience, she added, with a smile: “No, but I was also not nervous when I came here for the first time either.”

Isabel Freese and Total Hope OLD complete the top three. (Image credit: FEI/Benjamin Clark)

Isabel Freese and Total Hope OLD were a little under their exceptional form – which enabled them to pip Lottie and Glamourdale to second in the grand prix at the London International Horse Show – scoring 74.41% to place third.

“I thought I could maybe be top five, realistically, so we’re very happy,” she said. “Our start was not that good today; he was a little bit nervous, but he relaxed into it.”

Surprise performances in Basel

There has been plenty of conversation around judging and scoring trends – most recently reignited at this week’s FEI Sports Forum (31 March to 1 April) – and for most combinations, scores came in noticeably below their recent averages over the last five grand prix tests.

If Glamourdale can lay claim to the best canter tour in the world, Maxima Bella – already Poland’s most successful dressage horse at just nine years old – could easily stake her claim as the leading piaffe-passage specialist.

It is so good she opted to return to passage from canter on the corner before her one-time changes. But for that mistake, she might well have climbed even higher up the leaderboard, and the pair were the only combination to score higher than an eight in their collective mark for general impression. Expect them to be serious contenders in the freestyle.

Corentin’s performance was the surprise of the day, finishing a full 2.3% above his and Gotilas’ five-test average. Their test was a masterclass in consistency; Gotilas scored no lower than a seven in each movement bar the rein back. Corentin, visibly elated, punched the air and saluted the crowd as he exited the arena – the tension of their dramatic lead-up clearly lifted.

Reigning champion Patrik Kittel began his title defence with Forever Young FRH – rather than last year’s winner Touchdown – and delivered a polished performance to place sixth on 73.13%. He was also one of just six riders whose audience score exceeded the official marks.

Patrik has embraced the atmosphere in Basel, taking time to chat with fans and those working behind the scenes. His test reflected that positive energy: composed and harmonious, and the elegant 13-year-old mare showed fluency throughout.

She may not boast the flamboyance of some rivals, but Patrik presented her in an open, elastic frame, riding with a notably loose curb rein and – barring a slight blip in the two-time changes – keeping errors to a minimum. They may feel slightly short-changed by the score.

Lottie Fry and Isabell Werth among stellar entries for dressage World Cup Final

Lucy Elder — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 12:27:30 +0000

World Champions Lottie Fry and Glamourdale will fly the flag for British dressage at the 2025 FEI World Cup Final in Switzerland (2 to 6 April), as the full list of entries is revealed.

Lottie secured her ticket to Basel with victory at the Dutch Masters, the final leg of the Western European League, in ‘s-Hertogenbosch on Saturday (15 March). It will be Lottie’s third time at the final and her first with the 14-year-old stallion, whom she owns with Van Olst Horses.

Germany’s Isabell Werth heads the World Cup standings and is set to contest her 26th final. She is entered with world and European team medallist DSP Quantaz, owned by Madeleine Winter-Schulze and Victoria Max-Theurer, with whom she finished on the World Cup Final podium in 2023 and 2024.

Last year’s winner Patrik Kittel is granted an automatic spot, having landed the 2024 title with his championship campaigner Touchdown. This year he will ride the 13-year-old mare Forever Young HRH, whom he owns with Gestüt Peterhof.

The full list of 2025 FEI Dressage World Cup Final entries is as follows:

Isabell Werth (GER) with 15-year-old DSP Quantaz

Owner: Madeleine Winter-Schulze and Victoria Max-Theurer

Breeding: by Quaterback, out of a mare by Hohenstein 4

Corentin Pottier (FRA) with 14-year-old Gotilas Du Feuillard

Owner: Maryse and Herve Pottier, and Camille Judet Cheret

Breeding: by Totilas, out of a mare by Olympic Ferro

Bianca Nowag-Aulenbrock (GER) and 13-year-old Florine OLD

Owner: Elisabeth von Wulffen and Kirsten Grawunder

Breeding: by Foundation 2, out of a mare by Lauries Crusador

Lottie Fry with 14-year-old Glamourdale

Owner: rider and Van Olst Horses

Breeding: by Lord Leatherdale, out of a mare by Negro

Carina Scholz (GER) with 18-year-old Tarantino 5

Owner: Sportpferde Scholz

Breeding: by Toronto, out of a mare by Carbid

Pauline Basquin (FRA) and 15-year-old Sertorius De Rima Z

Owner: Institut Francais du Cheval et et de l’Équitation

Breeding: by Sandro Hit, out of a mare by Voltaire Pref

Larissa Pauluis (BEL) and 15-year-old Flambeau

Owner: Caroline and Emmanuel Lepage, and Jean and Marie Christine Pauluis

Breeding: by Ampere, out of a mare by Zeoliet

Isabel Freese (NOR) with 13-year-old Total Hope OLD

Owner: Oivind Bache, Lone Boegh-Henriksen and Paul Schockemöhle

Breeding: by Totilas, out of a mare by Blue Hors Don Schufro

Borja Carrascosa (ESP) with 12-year-old Sir Hubert

Owner: rider and Sportpferde Hofmann GbR

Breeding: by Sir Heinrich OLD, out of a mare by Florestan I

Anikó Komjáthy-Losonczy (HUN) with 17-year-old Dior S

Owner: Okura Co. Ltd.

Breeding: by Speilberg, out of a mare by Florestan I

Sandra Sysojeva (POL) with nine-year-old Maxima Bella

Owner: Sandra Sysojeva, Dominika Krasko Bialek and Piet Lenskens

Breeding: by Millenium, out of a mare by Christ 3

Mary Hanna (AUS) with 12-year-old Ivanhoe

Owner: rider and Rob Hanna

Breeding: by Desperado, out of a mare by Jazz

Kevin Kohmann (USA) with 16-year-old Duenensee

Owner: Diamante Farms

Breeding: by Dancier, out of a mare by Davignon I

Adrienne Lyle (USA) with 13-year-old Helix

Owner: Zen Elite Equestrian Center

Breeding: by Apache, out of a mare by Jazz

Genay Vaughn (USA) with 14-year-old Gino Usa

Owner: Michele Vaughn

Breeding: by Bretton Woods, out of a mare by Haarlem

Renderson Silva De Oliveira (BRA) with 15-year-old Fogoso Campline

Owner: rider and HRST-Horseteam Unipessoal LDA

Breeding: by Rico, out of a mare by Raja

Patrik Kittel (SWE) with 13-year-old Forever Young HRH

Owner: rider and Gestüt Peterhof

Breeding: by Fuerst Fugger, out of a mare by Don Bosco

Jessica Neuhauser (SUI) with 14-year-old Rockson

Owner: Hildegard Magdalena Riedmaier

Breeding: by Blue Hors Rockefeller, out of a mare by Sorento

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‘Look closely, not away’: FEI World Cup Final organisers announce zero-tolerance policy on welfare violations

Oscar Williams — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 18:04:39 +0000

Organisers of the FEI World Cup Finals in Basel, Switzerland (2–6 April) have announced a zero-tolerance approach to misconduct, specifically targeting actions that compromise horse welfare, in partnership with an independent welfare organisation.

The announcement follows growing scrutiny of horse welfare in equestrian sport, with increasing calls for stricter monitoring at major events.

“We want to offer our main players, the horses, the best conditions so that they feel comfortable with us,” said Thomas Straumann, president of the board of directors for organisers Longines CHI Classics Basel.

“We all know how much the sport we love is under surveillance. Even if it is very difficult, we try everything we can not to provide a target for opponents of equestrian sport.

“That’s why we do not accept any misconduct among ourselves and, especially, towards the horses. We ask all officials, including our staff, to look closely, and not look away. We will comply with all rules and monitor them closely. Violations will be punished using all means available to us as organisers.

“We all hope that we don’t have to make use of these measures because all we want to see is fair sport – now, and in the future.”

As part of that commitment, Dr Straumann announced a partnership with independent horse welfare organisation R-Haltenswert, founded by German entrepreneur Victoria Auracher and represented by André Hascher, chairman of the Breeding Association for German Horses.

Mr Hascher told H&H R-Haltenswert will have “qualified professionals” – referred to as EQCs – monitoring the warm-up arenas throughout the event.

“The EQCs will not intervene directly with riders or FEI stewards,” he said. “They will conduct quality control from within the industry, communicating daily with the organiser, the stewards, and the FEI.

“In addition, we will have a large exhibition stand where we can be reached for personal conversations with all riders, visitors, press representatives, and other interested parties.”

Mr Hascher added that findings will be shared in a press release at the end of the event and that several Olympians have privately voiced their support for the initiative.

Although the zero-tolerance policy marks a strong stance, FEI event organisers do not have the authority to disqualify or eliminate a rider – such decisions must be made by FEI officials, including the ground jury.

But organisers can escalate concerns regarding misconduct or welfare violations to FEI stewards, the ground jury, or veterinary officials, who have the power to take disciplinary action.

Switzerland has some of the world’s most stringent animal welfare laws, which operate independently of FEI regulations. The country’s Animal Welfare Act and Ordinance set clear restrictions on training methods and equipment, in some cases going beyond FEI rules.

As a result, organisers in Basel must navigate both international and national regulations, potentially adding another layer of scrutiny to how welfare violations are handled.

H&H has approached the FEI for its thoughts on the move.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘Girl from nowhere’ stars on World Cup Final stage: ‘I’m the driver, the rider, the groom and the coach!’

Martha Terry — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 07:30:58 +0000

The World Cup Finals is an elite stratosphere, for the best riders of the world, the most valuable horses. But now and again, a story emerges to warm the cockles and allow all of us to dream.

Lithuanian rider Justina Vanagaitė brought her horse to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia for this year’s FEI Dressage World Cup Final (16–20 April). If enthusiasm could win a class, Justina would be in a league of her own. The 34-year-old had already made history in Doha earlier this year as the first CDI5* dressage rider to compete without spurs. In Riyadh, she and her 11-year-old gelding Nadab looked to be loving every minute, performing their freestyle to dramatic orchestral music that suited this chunky horse, and finishing with a one-handed passage down the centre line.

Beaming broadly, she then blew two-handed kisses to the crowd and whipped up their cheering. An unscheduled flying change after the extended canter pegged their marks back a touch, ending on 75.1% and eighth place.

Justina describes herself as “the girl from nowhere”.

“I don’t have big names behind me,” she said after completing. “I don’t have a lot of money behind me. I’m doing everything by myself – I’m the groom, the rider, the driver, and sometimes the coach for myself!

“I can’t believe I have a ticket to the Olympics!”

“I would love to say to people, ‘don’t stop believing in nice things!’ If you put a lot of work and heart into it you will succeed. Nabab is produced by me and we started at really low levels and now we already have a ticket to the Olympics, which is nonsense. I still can’t believe it. I feel like I’m dreaming it. So don’t stop believing. Do what you love, and love what you do, and you will definitely succeed.”

Despite her top-10 finish, flamboyant celebrations and beaming smile, Justina felt her freestyle was below par.

“Today was not my best performance,” she said. “I had a few mistakes. The atmosphere is so intense, and I adore my freestyle. I am so happy to show myself off, even if not maybe in the best placing. I feel so emotional to ride my freestyle in a World Cup Final.

“Nabab was amazing as always. He always tries to give his best and did 100% today. I will give him a lot of carrots!”

Patrik Kittel won the World Cup Finals on Touchdown with his James Bond floorplan, scoring 81.66%, ahead of Nanna Skodborg Merrald (Blue Horse Don Olymbrio) in second.

James Bond helps Swede to World Cup Final win at the ninth attempt; favourite eliminated

Martha Terry — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 20:21:56 +0000

Patrik Kittel won the dressage World Cup Final freestyle at the ninth time of asking, riding Touchdown. This competition went to the wire, as the top three were the last to go – and were covered by just over 0.25% in the final reckoning. But Patrik’s brilliant James Bond routine stole the show, with Denmark’s Nanna Skodborg Merrald second aboard Blue Hors Don Olymbrio, and Isabell Werth third on DSP Quantaz.

Patrik, 47, remembered being a spectator when his compatriot Louise Natthorst – who trains him now – won the World Cup Final 24 years ago.

“I was just a groom and took two days off to watch the final, and couldn’t believe how cool the World Cup was – and now I’ve actually won it myself,” said Patrik. “It makes me cry! I’ve done so many World Cup Finals, so I say it’s better late than never. I’ll never forget this moment.”

But there was drama as the contest neared its conclusion when the hot favourite Lottie Fry was eliminated under the blood rule. The grand prix winner Lottie was first into the ring from the final quartet – drawn from the top four in Wednesday’s grand prix – but the steward stopped her up before she entered the ring, had a quick word, and Everdale left the ring on a long-rein walk.

How the dressage World Cup Final freestyle played out

The packed stands were treated to three very different tests in this climax. Nanna tried out her new sombre, dramatic music for her liver chestnut stallion with white socks. Don Olymbrio is arguably her second string after Blue Hors Zepter, and the 16-year-old by Jazz is agile and rhythmic without being super flashy. At times he looked a trifle tight but he was pinpoint accurate, and proved how relaxed he was as he wandered out on a loose rein seemingly lapping up the applause. They blasted into the lead, which had been held for a long time by Mattias Rath (Destacado FRH, 77.85%), on 81.42%.

“I really enjoyed my new music today,” said Nanna, who was finishing runner-up for the second time at the World Cup Finals. “Maybe it’s a little bit brave to bring it to the World Cup Final, and I will have to adjust it here and there to make it fit even better, but it made me smile inside and that’s really important that you love to ride to your music.”

Next in was Isabell Werth and DSP Quantaz, who held the highest personal best in the field of 88.4%, which he logged en route to team silver at the European Championships in Riesenbeck last autumn. After finishing only fourth with mistakes in the two-time changes in the grand prix, Isabell was on a mission at this her 25th World Cup Final – and her ninth different horse.

Her upbeat, happy music to a Bonnie Tyler soundtrack suited the bouncy Quantaz, especially his excellent piaffes which scored eights and nines. Another highlight, with a comedy touch, was her pirouettes to Turn Around from Total Eclipse of the Heart. She went for high difficulty lines and they came off. Three judges put her in first place, but their total of 81.4 meant the Dane held the advantage by just 0.02%.

“I love to compete and it was a great atmosphere and a very close battle,” said Isabell. “It was a fun competition. When I came in Quantaz was quite excited by the atmosphere after Nanna’s great test, and he could have gone tense, but he stayed really with me. It was great sport, and to have three on the podium this close makes our sport exciting; it felt like anything could happen.”

Isabell added: “I feel so sorry for Lottie, because we all know we are on a thin line, anything can happen to anyone.”

Drawn as the very last rider in to the ring, Patrik had been excited to show off what he described as his “melancholic James Bond” freestyle and he milked the moment. The soundtrack was a perfect fit for Touchdown, his 12-year-old Quaterback Swedish Warmblood, and his transitions were spot-on with the music breaks. The horse showed so much lift, suppleness and harmony with his rider. The tempis were ever so slightly swingy behind, but overall the partnership produced a light and dancing picture, with beautiful piaffe to passage to match James Bond’s dying moments in A Time to Die. Patrik threw his arms round the neck at the end, before punching the air and waving at the crowd.

“I love my music, now I have ridden it a few times and know exactly how it goes,” he said. “I love the slow, cool entrance and then off to extended trot. The degree of difficulty is very good for the sport, because we have to ride everything according to the programme and not take short cuts. It has done the sport a favour.”

Despite this being Patrik’s ninth World Cup Final appearance he had never previously even been on the podium. He had broken that duck in the grand prix, finishing runner-up, and was visibly ecstatic with this performance to take victory by 0.24%.

Off the podium at the dressage World Cup Final freestyle

Germany’s Matthias Rath took the lead midway through the competition on 77.85%. The world number 11 rode to bombastic theatrical music, which complemented this compact warrior type, Destacado FRH. He showed great energy and cadence in his half-passes, and the judges loved his ground-covering extended walk and canter. However, a slight miscommunication at the end of the two-time tempis, when he slipped in a one-time – which he then repeated in the joker line – dragged his score down a touch. He finished just off the podium in fourth.

“My horse performed much better than in the grand prix,” said Matthias, who finished sixth there. “I had a little mistake in two times but otherwise I was really happy. Sometimes everyone around forgets he’s just 11, he’s in his third grand prix season which was so early, and he’s still young.

“He’s big with big movement so we have to give him time and I’m sure there is much more to come.”

Matthias’ countryman, 24-year-old Raphael Netz, marked his card as one to watch in fifth position. Based with two-time World Cup Final winner Jessica von Bredow-Werndl – although setting up his own yard this month – Raphael scored 76.48% with his bold expressive test. He chose music from How to Train Your Dragon, inspired because he thinks his “small but mighty” horse Great Escape Camelot resembles the dragon from the film.

Belgium’s Flore de Winn was another to catch the eye, riding the youngest horse in the competition into sixth place on 76.13%. Her ride, 10-year-old Flynn FRH, is a striking black stallion who went in a lovely relaxed frame, yet showing all his power and athleticism. They made a mistake in the first line of one-time tempis, but clawed the marks back through the joker line. Flore didn’t go for a maximum difficulty level on this young horse, but his potential is huge.

“He did a great job, he was himself and he stayed with me, which is the most important thing,” said Flore. “The crowd was impressive compared to two days ago and we were both a bit amazed by that, but he tried his best as he always does. He’s my best buddy.”

The FEI vet director Göran Åkerström confirmed afterwards that the blood spotted on Everdale’s gum was minimal.

“It is the kind of injury that will heal extremely fast, it was not much blood at all,” he said. “There should not be any concerns over the horse or the oral cavity because of it. It was extremely unlucky.”

‘Extremely unlucky’ says vet after Lottie Fry eliminated at dressage World Cup Final

Martha Terry — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 20:06:08 +0000

The hot favourite Lottie Fry was eliminated from the dressage World Cup Final in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, after her stallion Everdale was judged to have blood in the mouth prior to starting her test.

The grand prix winner Lottie was first into the ring from the final quartet in the deciding freestyle, but the judge at C, Hans-Christian Matthiesen, stopped her before she’d trotted round outside the boards once, had a quick word, and Everdale left the ring on a long-rein walk.

“That’s one of the very difficult parts of our job when we sit there as a judge at C, and I am devastated when it happens, but it’s a thin line and can happen in a split second,” said Hans-Christian. “Although it’s a hard decision to make, I was well backed up because our rules are very clear when it comes to that, so I could make the decision quickly.”

The FEI vet director Göran Åkerström added: “The mouth of Charlotte’s horse has been examined and it is a minor bleeding from the mucosa, the gum above the incisors. It is the kind of injury that will heal extremely fast, it was not much blood at all. There should not be any concerns over the horse or the oral cavity because of it. It was extremely unlucky.”

British Dressage shared the following statement on behalf of Everdale’s owners, the Van Olsts and Lottie.

“We are of course upset with the elimination, but the horse’s welfare always comes first and foremost so completely respect the decision.

“Everdale was checked over by the FEI vet team straight away and they couldn’t find any sign of a cut or abrasion in the mouth and our own vet has also given him a thorough check with no obvious cause. The most important thing is he’s fine and there is no injury.

“We were really happy with the warm up where he was relaxed, we took his bandages off and gave him a final check before heading in to the arena and can only think he maybe just caught his front lip as we went around the arena.

“It’s a disappointing way to end our FEI World Cup campaign, but we have a happy horse to take home for another day.”

The dressage World Cup Final 2024 was won by Patrik Kittel riding Touchdown, ahead of Nanna Skodborg Merrald on Blue Hors Don Olymbrio, with Isabell Werth third on DSP Quantaz.

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‘He’s so happy when I say “good job”’: Lottie Fry takes control of World Cup Final

Martha Terry — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 16:53:52 +0000

Britain’s sole representative in the dressage World Cup Finals won the grand prix in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The reigning world champion Lottie Fry, riding her second string Everdale, headed the field by more than 2%, scoring 75.38%. Sweden’s Patrik Kittel was runner-up with his European Championship ride Touchdown on 73.29%. Lottie goes down in history as the first international dressage winner to be crowned in this country.

Bar a slight blip where Everdale took his eye off the ball before the rein-back, Lottie’s test was impressively consistent. And once she was into the canter work, with the stallion’s expressive changes scoring eights and nines, she was well on her way to sealing the win.

“The VIP section on two levels caught his eye, he’s not used to that lovely design,” said Lottie, who has been riding the 15-year-old in “very soft” rubber bits for the past two months. “But his canter work was some of the best I’ve ever felt. His changes were as good as they’ve ever been and had so much power.

“He loves to work; he loves to please and to make me happy. And when I tell him, ‘you’ve done a good job’, he’s so happy about it.”

Regarding the landmark dressage win, Lottie added: “I didn’t realise I was the first winner, but that’s really exciting. Especially as we are in a sport where men and women compete on equal terms.”

Lottie added that although her world champion Glamourdale is being targeted at Paris, Everdale is “a very nice back-up”.

“They’re getting pretty competitive as they’re stabled opposite each other at home,” Lottie smiled. “And Glammy is not happy to be left behind!”

Best result yet at dressage World Cup Finals

Patrik Kittel has been to six World Cup Finals, and this is his best result yet. Touchdown looked wonderfully light on his feet, and performed another accurate and consistent test. Patrik looked thrilled as he left the arena, rewarding Touchdown and waving at the crowd.

“I was a little bit surprised to be second because I knew the queen [Isabell Werth] was still to come,” he said. “Isabell’s mistakes were unusual, but of course I’m happy for me. The tension has been building up, you fly horses here, we arrived last Thursday and it’s a long wait, so all you can do is go in with your horse and hope the horse is with you – that’s the most enjoyable moment.”

Nanna Skodborg Merrald was another riding her second string. She was third into the arena on Blue Hors Olymbrio, and set the standard with 72.9%. This imposing liver chestnut with a big blaze and four socks could well be in Danish team reckoning for the Olympics, given that we have yet to see Nanna’s European individual silver medallist, Blue Hors Zepter, compete this season.

Surprise blip for multi-garlanded rider

Isabell Werth’s ride DSP Quantaz was among the favourites on past form, having the highest personal best of plus-78% of the assembled field, and they started with a bang. But his lead faltered with the walk and rein-back section, before what looked like a complete miscommunication in the two-time flying changes, scoring 1.7, caused their score to plummet.

Isabell did claw back some of the deficit with some nice one-time changes, but the test was intermittent from then on. They scored a sub-par 72.23% to finish fourth.

The Netherlands’ Thamar Zweistra and Hexagon’s Ice Weiss was eliminated from the grand prix under the blood rule.

The grand prix is a qualifier for the freestyle, which decides the dressage World Cup Final result and takes place on Friday, 19 April at 3.15 UK time. All bar one of the combinations who completed the grand prix, the Moldovan Alisa Grinka and Abercrombie, will go through to the freestyle.

‘As always, our horses lead the way’: World Cup Final favourite withdraws through injury

Oscar Williams — Sun, 14 Apr 2024 18:48:41 +0000

Isabell Werth has announced that she will not be riding her long-term partner Emilio 107 (Ehrenpreis x Cacir A) at the 2024 Dressage World Cup Final (16-20 April) in Riyadh, Saudia Arabia.

“As always, our horses lead the way,” Isabell said. “Unfortunately, Emilio has a periostitis [inflammation] due to a trauma. He will therefore not be able to compete in the World Cup Final.”

The combination were among the favourites to win the competition and had the highest average freestyle score in qualifying (87.41%). It was also likely to be a farewell appearance for the 18-year-old gelding, who is owned by Madeline Winter-Schulze.

Isabell had previously told Dressursport Deutschland that Emilio would retire at the end of 2023, with Frankfurt CDI earmarked as his final show.

But following a strong showing at the World Cup qualifier in Stuttgart, Isabell told Dressursport.kim that she was having second thoughts on Emilio’s retirement: “I might even ride him on a World Cup stage. I’m still wavering in my heart – let’s see,” she said. Their participation was confirmed when the FEI released the list of definite entries (30 March).

Isabell will now ride DSP Quantaz who won the World Cup qualifier in ‘s-Hertogenbosch. “He is in very good shape and I hope we can prove our form there,” she said.

Quantaz is now likely to challenge Britain’s Lottie Fry and Everdale for the top spot at the finals. Lottie and Everdale (88.18%) beat Isabell and Quantaz (86.45%) at the World Cup qualifier in Amsterdam (27 January) but the German combination carry a higher average score going into the showdown – 85.98% to Everdale’s 85.11%.

If Emilio is to retire, he will do so as one of the most successful dressage horses of the last decade, despite at times playing second fiddle to Isabell’s other top rides including Quantaz, Weihegold and Bella Rose.

He would bow out as the number two ranked horse in the world – behind TSF Dalera BB – having achieved 56 international grand prix wins from 99 starts.

Solo British entry for FEI dressage World Cup Final as Jessica von Bredow-Werndl will not defend her title

Oscar Williams — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 20:21:03 +0000

The FEI has released the definite entries list for the 2024 Dressage World Cup Final (16-20 April) which will be held in Riyadh, Saudia Arabia, with 17 combinations participating.

Lottie Fry, riding Everdale, will be Britain’s sole representative. The pair have been regulars on the indoor circuit, contesting World Cup qualifiers in London, Mechlen, Amsterdam and ’s-Hertogenbosch, finishing second in the Western European League, three points behind Isabell Werth.

Isabell will be riding her long-term partner, 18-year-old Emilio 107 rather than DSP Quantaz who contested two World Cup qualifiers.

It should be tight between the two at the top of the leaderboard, with Emilio averaging 87.41% across his two freestyles in qualifying, and Everdale 85.11% from his four – Everdale also earned the highest score between the two with 88.18% in Amsterdam.

Other top riders in contention for places on the podium include Nanna Skodborg Merrald with Blue Hors Don Olmybrio and Patrik Kittel and Touchdown.

Each year a qualification spot is reserved for title defenders but 2022 and 2023 champions Jessica von Bredow-Werndl and TSF Dalera BB will not be at this year’s finals in Riyadh.

The combination contested one World Cup qualifier in Basel – winning on 91.01% – so did not meet the two-qualifier minimum required to defend their title.

But this does not come as a surprise, and it was always expected that Dalera would not travel to Riyadh in the build-up to the Paris Olympics in the summer.

Another rider who has announced she is not going is Emille Scholtens, who qualified joint seventh in the Western European League riding the 11-year-old Olympic hopeful Indian Rock.

These withdrawals have opened up spots for German rider Raphael Netz and Belgian riders Flore de Winne and Larissa Pauliuis.

Despite finishing seventh in the Western European League, Raphael would not have been able to compete had Jessica qualified, as national federations may send a maximum of three riders.

As it is not covered by league qualification, the title-defender spot is allocated to the combination with the highest FEI dressage world ranking, who have participated in at least two World Cup qualifiers. This spot has been allocated to Larissa after combinations ahead of her in the rankings declined the invitation.

Emille’s spot bumps down to the next highest rider in the Western European League, which was Flore – who despite finishing joint 10th alongside Austrian rider Diana Porsche qualifies, as per the rules, owing to her higher average score.

Dressage World Cup entries

Western European League (nine entries):

Isabell Werth – Emilio 107 (GER)
Lottie Fry – Everdale (GBR)
Patrik Kittel – Touchdown (SWE)
Mathias Alexander Rath – Destacado FRH (GER)
Nanna Skodborg Merrald – Blue Hors Don Olymbrio (DEN)
Morgan Barbançon – Sir Donnerhall II OLD (FRA)
Raphael Netz – Great Escape Camelot (GER)
Borja Carrascova – Sir Hubert NRW (ESP)
Flore de Winne – Flynn FRH (BEL)

Central European League (two entries):

Alisa Glinka – Abercrombie (MDA)
Justina Vanagaite – Nabab (LTU)

Pacific League (one entry):

Melissa Galloway – Windermere J’Obei W (NZL)

North American League (three entries):

Benjamin Ebeling – Indeed (USA)
Kevin Kohmann – Duenensee (USA)
Anna Marek – Fayvel (USA)

FEI extra starting places (two with a third unallocated):

Thamar Zweistra – Hexagon’s Ich Weiss (NED)
Larissa Pauluis – First-Step Valentin (BEL)

Medal-winning super stallion to have one last dance for home crowd

Lucy Elder — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 15:48:15 +0000

Gold medal-winning stallion Blue Hors Zack will dance one final time before bowing out of his glittering competition career.

The now 19-year-old top breeding stallion will compete in the World Cup leg at Herning (21 to 22 October) as his swansong from the sport.

“We are getting ready for Zack’s last riding event, which will be the World Cup in Herning in five days. It’s a bit sad, but also pretty cool to go to your last big riding event at the age of 19,” said rider Nanna Skodborg Merrald.

“We thought Zack should be allowed to end his sporting career on the Danish stage in front of hopefully a lot of Danish people who want to come and applaud Zack – and me.”

Blue Hors Zack was bought at auction as a three-year-old by Esben Møller from Blue Hors. His contribution to the sport can be measured in both the competition arena and his legacy in the breeding ranks; with his famous sons include Sezuan, the late Zonik, Vincent Maranello, Blue Hors Zatchmo and Zoom.

Daniel Bachmann Andersen took the Rosseau son to grand prix, scoring wins and breaking the 80% barrier during their first international season at the top level.

The pair were part of the Danish team at the 2018 World Equestrian Games, scored two individual top-10 placings at the 2019 Europeans, and finished fourth and seventh at the respective 2018 and 2019 World Cup finals.

Nanna took on the ride in 2021, making a winning debut in Le Mans with victory in both the grand prix and grand prix special. They finished 11th individually at the Tokyo Olympics that year, also helping the team to fourth place.

In 2022, Nanna and Zack were part of the gold medal-winning Danish side on home soil at the World Championships in Herning, making the venue a fitting place for the sporting star to bow out.

This year, Nanna has ridden him twice in World Cup legs, finishing third on both occasions and finishing just shy of their personal best with a +85% score at Amsterdam in January.

‘Started like a dream, ended like a nightmare’: top horse recovering after colic surgery

Lucy Elder — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 16:58:12 +0000

Top dressage horse Tørveslettens Titanium RS2 is recovering after emergency colic surgery following his withdrawal from the freestyle at the FEI World Cup final.

The 11-year-old gelding, ridden by Marieke van der Putten for the Netherlands, finished eighth in the grand prix on a score of 70.78% at the World Cup Dressage final in Omaha, US, but withdrew on the morning of the freestyle after showing “mild colic signs”.

“What started like a dream ended up like a nightmare,” said Marieke.

“We tried to do everything to make him comfortable, but sadly nothing worked for him and we had to bring him to a clinic at Iowa State University Large Animal Hospital.

“Luckily everyone helped us, [the team were] amazing at the showground and everything was arranged in a split second so we could bring him to Iowa.

“A big thank you to everyone (too many to mention) who helped us. We appreciated it a lot.”

His condition did not improve and the Totilas son had to have surgery.

“The most important thing is that he is doing fine now,” said Marieke. “Nothing is more important than for him being healthy and happy. Of course he has a long way to go but ‘Tito’ is the biggest little pretty fighter on this planet, so I am sure he will be back strong and healthy as ever.”

Marieke also thanked Dutch team vet Edwin Enzerink, who “stayed with him the whole time and did an amazing job”, as well as groom Sanne Vondel who has been giving him “a lot of cuddles and all the love he needs and more”.

“Let’s pray for a fast recovery so we can bring him back home soon so he can be in his own stable with all the people around him who love him most,” said Marieke.

“It is heartbreaking to all of us not being with him.”

Marieke and Tito were part of the fifth-placed Dutch team at the 2022 World Dressage Championships in Herning. They have broken the 80%-barrier multiple times for their grand prix freestyle performances and have numerous top international wins and placings.

World Cup Final field depleted after further shock withdrawals

Polly Bryan — Sat, 08 Apr 2023 12:40:38 +0000

Just 13 horses contested the freestyle at the FEI Dressage World Cup Final in Omaha, USA, making it the smallest field at a final since 2009. It followed the unfortunate withdrawals of three high-profile combinations.

The Netherlands’ Dinja van Liere, who was widely expected to give eventual winner Jessica von Bredow-Werndl a run for her money, withdrew just minutes before she and Hermes NOP were due to enter the arena for their grand prix on Wednesday (5 April). It was later revealed by the Dutch federation that the Easy Game stallion “was not fit to compete”.

German pair Ingrid Klimke and Franziskus FRH finished fourth in the grand prix, but then withdrew ahead of Friday night’s freestyle, to the disappointment of fans who had hoped to see Ingrid bid for glory, 21 years after last riding in the Dressage World Cup Final.

There had already been question marks over the Fidertanz stallion’s soundness after he appeared slightly unlevel in his extended trot during the grand prix test. No bell was rung, however, and the movement received marks ranging from 6.5 to 8.5.

The following day it was announced that “Franz” had suffered a “misstep”, and would no longer be presented for the freestyle.

“I’m sad that we can’t compete in the freestyle here so unexpectedly. Franz’s well-being comes first and we have withdrawn him in view of the coming outdoor season,” said Ingrid.

Also scratching ahead of the freestyle was Dutch rider Marieke van der Putten and the Totilas son Titanium RS2. The pair had finished down the order with a disappointing 70.77% in the grand prix, and Marieke reported that the 11-year-old gelding has been “overwhelmed by the amazing arena”.

The day of the freestyle, the Dutch federation announced the pair’s withdrawal: “Titanium is showing mild colic signs, something he’s never had before. It’s a big blow for the entire team surrounding the combination, but it’s the right decision to pull the horse from competition.”

‘She trusted me from the very first step’: Jessica von Bredow-Werndl posts huge score to claim back-to-back World Cup titles

Polly Bryan — Sat, 08 Apr 2023 08:18:30 +0000

Jessica von Bredow-Werndl stole the show on freestyle night at the FEI Dressage World Cup Final in Omaha, USA.

The German rider, last year’s World Cup winner and also the reigning Olympic and European champion, returned to the Dressage World Cup Final with her delightful TSF Dalera BB and rose to top the leaderboard in spectacular fashion once more.

The pair scored 90.48% – the ninth time they have exceeded the 90% marker – to finish 3% ahead of runners-up Nanna Skodberg Merrald and Blue Hors Zepter.

Jessica reported that the 16-year-old Easy Game mare had been super hot during the grand prix, and although they had topped the leaderboard on that occasion, it was without the usual polish as a spicy Dalera made a few uncharacteristic mistakes. But Jessica said that on freestyle night, she didn’t do too much in the way of warming-up, and that Dalera was more rideable in the arena as they glided through their French-themed routine.

“It was really hot in there and she again was a little bit scared but she trusted me 100%, that was the difference tonight. I was confident and we were mirroring each other, she was confident and I got confident. She was excited but she trusted me from the very first step”, said Jessica.

With this win, Jessica has proved that she and Dalera are right back at the top of world dressage, following her break from competition during 2022 while she welcomed her second child. During that time, it was Lottie Fry and Glamourdale who soared to success, being crowned world champions, and it is yet to be seen who will come out on top when these two combinations meet in competition for the first time later this year.

Denmark’s Nanna Skodberg Merrald demoted Germany’s Isabell Werth to third place when she came in from last draw and produced a stunning test with Blue Hos Zepter, a new ride of just a few months for her, that scored 87.15%.

“He was really on fire. I had to be so careful all the way around, it was a bit difficult to come back after extended canter but I’m so thrilled,” she said. “My journey with him has been so short, we have only been together for four months and I have the feeling I can ask for so much more – he is amazing,” she added of the 15-year-old chestnut, a son of Nanna’s own Olympic and world championship ride Blue Hors Zack.

Isabell and DSP Quantaz completed the podium with a score of 85.76%.

It was a somewhat depleted field that came forward for the freestyle, the deciding test of the Dressage World Cup Final, after two of those considered among the challengers for the title, Ingrid Klimke (Franciskus), Marieke van der Putten (Torveslettens Titanium) and Dinja van Liere (Hermes NOP), withdrew from the competition.

World Cup Final title contender withdraws from competition at 11th hour

Polly Bryan — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 09:30:53 +0000

The FEI Dressage World Cup Final grand prix leaderboard was missing Dinja van Liere and Hermes NOP, who officially withdrew just minutes before their test in Omaha, USA, last night (5 April).

The Dutch pair, who were double bronze medallists at last year’s World Dressage Championships in Herning, were widely expected to be among the strongest challengers for the World Cup title. The 11-year-old Easy Game x Flemmingh stallion passed the trot-up and was drawn second-last to go in the grand prix. This test acts as a qualifier for the grand prix freestyle, which solely decides the World Cup winner.

But minutes before Dinja van Liere and Hermes were due to enter the arena for their World Cup grand prix test, it was announced that they had withdrawn from the grand prix, and therefore would not be eligible to compete in Friday’s freestyle.

“Today the horse was not fit to compete,” confirmed the Dutch high performance director Iris Boelhouwer. “Horse welfare is always our number one priority, so to respect the horse he was withdrawn.”

Grand prix victory went to defending title-holders and Olympic champions Germany’s Jessica von Bredow-Werndl and TSF Dalera BB, who posted 79.92% to lead the eventual field of 15. Isabell Werth, winner of three back-t0-back World Cup titles with Weihegold OLD in 2017, 2018 and 2019, finished second in the grand prix aboard her world championships ride DSP Quantaz.

The grand prix freestyle takes place on Friday evening, from which the 2022/2023 World Cup champion will emerge.

Defending champions off to winning start at Dressage World Cup Final – despite ‘expensive hiccups’

Polly Bryan — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 21:16:05 +0000

The FEI Dressage World Cup Final kicked off this evening in Omaha, Nebraska, with the defending champion and reigning Olympic gold medallist, Jessica von Bredow-Werndl, opening her bid for back-to-back World Cup titles as she claimed the grand prix with TF Dalera BB.

The pair scored 79.92% – on the low side for this pair and the first time they have posted less than 80% internationally since January 2021 – but it was enough to keep them ahead of fellow German combination, Isabell Werth and DSP Quantaz, who were second on 77.85%.

Jessica and Dalera presented a characteristically light-footed, harmonious test, with numerous highlights including the piaffe-passage work. But the mare was hot, and mistakes crept in, with an immobile halt to start, and a short first change in their line of one-time changes, which Jessica described as “expensive hiccups”.

“She was so on fire, I was lucky we had no major mistakes to be honest. She thought it wasn’t necessary to halt at the entrance for example,” said Jessica. “But I am super happy; she flew all the way here to America and is full of energy and wants to perform. She was just a bit too energised today; she was electric. But she is in super shape and she really tried to focus on me.”

Having claimed the 2022 Dressage World Cup Final title in euphoric fashion, Jessica missed the World Dressage Championships last summer due to the birth of her second child, Ella Marie. She has enjoyed three winning outings with Dalera since her return to competition in the autumn, and the pair look on track to defend their World Cup title in Omaha.

The World Cup is decided solely by the grand prix freestyle, which takes place on Friday, 7 April; the grand prix acts as a qualifier and determines the running order for the freestyle.

Denmark’s Nanna Skodberg Merrald finished third in the grand prix behind Jessica and Isabell on 76.16% riding Blue Hors Zepter. The 15-year-old son of Blue Hors Zack – Nanna’s team gold medallist at the world championships in 2022 – is a relatively new ride for her, though he is no stranger to a World Cup Final, having finished eighth at the 2022 final with Patrik Kittel.

One of the strongest contenders for the title, Dutch pair Dinja van Liere and Hermes NOP, withdrew from the grand prix, meaning they will not be eligible to compete in the freestyle – which determines the World Cup winner.

No British combinations have made the trip to compete in Omaha – reigning world champions Lottie Fry and Glamourdale qualified, but opted not to compete due to the stallion’s breeding commitments.

‘Some of his very best work’: British world champions claim victory in Dutch Masters’ World Cup

Becky Murray — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 17:52:01 +0000

World champions Lottie Fry and Glamourdale dominated in ’s-Hertogenbosch with two victories, in their first international outing since the London International Horse Show.

Lottie and the Van Olst’s 12-year-old stallion were competing in the final World Cup qualifier of the season, the Dutch Masters (12-13 March). They were joined by top names including Britain’s Laura Tomlinson and Fallatijn, the Netherlands’ Dinja Van Liere and Hermes, and Germany’s Isabell Werth and Emilio 107, and Benjamin Werndl and Famoso OLD.

In Thursday’s (9 March) grand prix Lottie and Glamourdale posted 79.83%, with world individual bronze medallist Dinja and Hermes among the combinations still to go. But Lottie held on to the top spot, with Dinja settling for third on 75.37% and her World Championships teammates Marieke Van Der Putten and Torvesletterns Titanium Rs2 second on 76.76%. Laura Tomlinson and Fallatijn scored 69.96% for 12th.

On Sunday (11 March) Benjamin and Famoso OLD were the first combination to deliver a +80% in the freestyle, when they scored 82.05%. This was quickly topped by Dinja and Hermes who demonstrated a lovely passage/piaffe, but the 13-year-old stallion became tense in the latter stages to finish on 83.38%.

Lottie and Glamourdale were third-last to go and treated fans to their “Best of Britain” routine for the first time on Dutch soil. The pair started strong, with 10s across the board for their first extended canter and 9.3 for their two-tempi changes. Glamourdale had an uncharacteristic spook during the canter half pass but they still scored 86.84% to take the win. Their freestyle personal best is 90.99%, recorded at the London International Horse Show in December.

“It was a shame, because he did some of his very best work today,” said Lottie. “It is a big arena with a lot of atmosphere and he came back and we finished well so I am happy.”

Dinja and Hermes were second, and Isabell Werth and Emilion third on 82.76%. Laura and Fallatijn were 12th on 74.56%.

“Hermes gets more excited when there are a lot of people, but I am still very happy about our progress together and where we are going. He can be very good in piaffe/passage which I think were my best ever today,” said Dinja.

The World Cup final gets under way in Omaha, USA, on 4-8 April. At the end of the qualifying season Isabell Werth heads the standings, followed by Ingrid Klimke, and Dinja.

‘Tell your foals about our adventures’: gold medal-winning horse retires to stud

Becky Murray — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 12:08:32 +0000

German dressage rider Helen Langehanenberg has announced the retirement of her European team gold medal-winning partner Annabelle 110.

Helen said after almost 10 years together, “a wonderful chapter ends”, and “Mausi” will now return to her breeder and owner Günther Fielmann to become a broodmare at his Schierensee estate.

Mausi, by Conteur and out of a Linaro 3 mare, is currently 13th in the FEI dressage world rankings, and bows out from competition aged 15.

Helen said the Fielmann family wants Annabelle to have some foals and it was the right time.

“Of course I’m happy that she’s going into breeding in top shape. But letting go is not that easy,” she said.

Helen took on the ride of Mausi in 2013, and the pair made their grand prix debut in 2018. Their first international win was the CDI3* grand prix special at Vilhelmsborg, Denmark, in 2020, where they scored 75.66%.

Helen has previously said Mausi was not always straightforward or easy, and described her as “sensitive”, but said she “liked her from the start”.

The pair continued to go from strength to strength and in January 2021 scored a then personal best +81% in the Salzburg World Cup qualifier, where they were third in the freestyle behind Isabell Werth and Weihegold OLD, and Jessica von Bredow-Werndl and TSF Dalera BB. That year the World Cup final was cancelled owing to the European EHV-1 outbreak.

Helen and Mausi were travelling reserves at the Tokyo Olympics, and six weeks later were part of the German gold medal-winning team at the 2021 European Championships in Hagen, Germany. In November that year they won the freestyle at the Madrid World Cup qualifier on 80.50%, and at the World Cup final in April 2022 they were sixth in the grand prix and freestyle classes.

In December the pair scored another personal best, 82.14%, at the London International Horse Show. Their final international competition was last month in Göteborg, Sweden, where they were fourth in the grand prix, and scored 80.54% for fourth in the freestyle.

“I’ve been able to train her since the end of her fifth year and have been able to celebrate great successes with this dancing fairy – team gold, victories in the World Cup freestyle, sixth in the World Cup final and then we were reserves at the Olympic Games in Tokyo,” she said.

“But it’s not just the sporting successes. Above all, it is the common path. It’s the mutual learning from each other. I will miss that so much. Thank you very much, dear Fielmann family, for the long and very trusting cooperation.

“And thank you, dear Mausi. Have a good time and tell your hopefully many foals about our adventures together… I will miss you very, very much”.

‘We will never forget you’: heartfelt tributes paid World Cup final winner

Lucy Elder — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 11:13:06 +0000

Connections have paid tribute to the “true friend and gentleman” Glock’s Flirt, who died recently aged 21.

The multiple international grand prix-winning dressage horse scored his biggest victory in the 2016 World Cup final with his long-term Dutch rider, Hans Peter Minderhoud.

“[He was] the dearest and most loyal horse I ever had the honour to ride. A true friend at home and a real fighter at tournaments,” said Hans Peter.

“Flirty”, a son of Florestan I and Gauguin De Lully mare Envie De Lully, died in September “surrounded by his dearest two-legged friends”.

A statement from Glock Horse Performance Center said that “now some of the pain has healed, we are ready to tell his story”.

“He was one of the most beloved horses we ever had the privilege to provide a home. A trusty sporting partner, a four-legged friend, a gentleman until old age,” said a Glock spokesman. “Always well behaved, always gentle and always devoted to his people.”

The gelding and Hans Peter took part in 14 World Cup legs, enjoying wins at three of these and reaching the finals on two occasions – that victorious year in Sweden in 2016 and the previous year in Las Vegas, where they finished fifth.

They competed at London twice, finishing third in both the grand prix and the freestyle in 2015 and taking home two second-place rosettes in 2016.

Flirty joined Glock after he won his first grand prix aged nine.

“His breeder, Hans-Jakob Fünfschilling, told us that, as a three-year-old, he was incredibly striking with his charisma and talent for movement, but also difficult to handle,” said the spokesman.

“When he was four years old, he came to Jasmine Sanche and, just one year later and despite his difficult-to-handle temperament, he had already passed all his tests.”

The Swiss warmblood went to Hartwig Burfeind as a six-year-old, before joining Glock, and “matured under Hans Peter into a world-class horse”.

Hans Peter and Flirty achieved their highest score as a partnership on their final start together in the World Cup leg at ‘s-Hertogenbosch in 2017, winning the kür on 84.89%.

“He gave us a wonderful last performance at the age of 16, albeit without our knowing it at the time,” said the spokesman, adding that a tendon injury brought an end to Flirty’s competition career.

“He was fit enough to enjoy his twilight years on the extensive pastures of the Glock Horse Performance Center Netherlands, which he did for more than five wonderful years.

“But the day comes, we all know, when we have to say goodbye to our beloved four-legged friend. And now it was time to let Glock’s Flirt go.”

In his last weeks, the gelding was finding it difficult to get up and to eat, and despite vet’s help, there was nothing more they could do for him.

“On 22 September, Flirty slipped gently away, surrounded by his keepers and his human friend, Hans Peter. Farewell Flirty, we will never forget you.”

London Horse Show star rushed to hospital and awaiting surgery after fall

Polly Bryan — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 17:29:15 +0000

Belgian dressage rider Marc Peter Spahn was taken to hospital by ambulance, days after dazzling the crowds at London International Horse Show (LIHS) with his Friesian stallion Elias.

Marc and Elias finished 13th in the dressage World Cup qualifier at LIHS, and Marc says he “drove home in euphoria on Saturday” but was then taken to hospital following a fall on Tuesday afternoon.

Marc suffered a serious leg fracture and is set to undergo surgery in the next week.

“It’s not a good prognosis for me. I will have to cancel everything in January. I will have surgery this week, preferably ASAP,” he said.

Marc had been aiming to secure a coveted place to compete at the World Cup Final, in Omaha, USA, in April, and had been planning to continue competing on the World Cup qualifier circuit through January to earn the points needed to rise up the rankings. He is currently 10th in the standings for the Western European League, for which nine spots at the final are available.

“You can cry, but it won’t help,” he said. “What is important now is to keep things on track at home. All horses must be given a place to stay in training. I haven’t thrown in the towel yet – I have too big a goal in mind.”

Marc has competed five Friesian horses up to grand prix level, but the 13-year-old stallion Elias represents his best chance of qualifying for the World Cup Final for the first time. The pair have been on flying form; their 73.32% at London Horse Show was close to their all-time best score.

According to Phryso, Marc’s partner Ykje Baron will step in to keep Elias fit while Marc is out of action.

Although Marc’s injury will rule him out of competing at key World Cup shows over the next month, such as Mechelen and Amsterdam CDI-Ws, he hopes to be recovered in time for later fixtures such as Gothenburg CDI-W in late February and ‘s-Hertogenbosch in March.

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Olympic event rider wins dressage World Cup leg

Becky Murray — Tue, 15 Nov 2022 18:02:06 +0000

German Olympic eventer Ingrid Klimke scored a personal best to win the Stuttgart leg of the dressage World Cup (9-13 November).

Ingrid and Franziskus FRH scored 83.44% in the grand prix freestyle to take the win on home soil. Their test included a one-handed extended trot to halt transition and in the artistic category they were awarded marks above 89%. Their previous personal best in freestyle was 80.680%.

“He listened so well today, and he was just fantastic. I still can’t believe it,” said Ingrid.

“He loves his freestyle. He was so calm and listening to me today and his two-tempi changes on the centreline were amazing as well as the last piaffe on the turn and the extended trot at the very end.”

Ingrid, who has represented Germany in eventing at five Olympics and holds two team golds and a team silver, made her dressage championship debut with Franziskus at the World Championships in Herning in August. The pair were 14th in the grand prix and 19th in the special. Ingrid currently stands 19th in the dressage world rankings, and 54th in the eventing.

“It’s wonderful to have this wonderful stallion. He is 14 years old now but is still improving. Since [the 2022 World Championships in] Herning he seems to be enjoying himself even more and making more progress,” said Ingrid, who was asked how the victory compares to her many successes in eventing.

“Of course if you win at Aachen or Luhmühlen it’s also very exciting. I have done lots of wonderful things but competing indoors is different and I like it a lot. When I was younger I watched my father (Reiner Klimke) doing it and tonight brought memories of him back for me. This was very special.”

Isabell Werth had led the Stuttgart competition after winning the grand prix on Friday (11 November), but had to settle for second in the freestyle the next day with 82.030%. Benjamin Werndl – the brother of Olympic champion Jessica von Bredow-Werndl – rounded off the all-German podium with Daily Mirror 9 in third.

Frederic Wandres and Bluetooth Old, and Doroth Schneider and Faustus 94 rounded off the top five. The Netherlands’ Dinja van Liere and Hartsuijer scored a personal best together on 80.225% for sixth, and Jessica von Bredow Werndl was 10th on Ferdinand BB on 78.205%. Benjamin leads the World Cup standings on 50 qualifying points, Ingrid has moved into second on 40, and Isabell is third with 37 points.

The Horse & Hound Podcast 98: Jonelle Price | Grand National & World Cup Final review | Bit size | News round-up

Gemma Redrup — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 05:45:12 +0000

In our 98th weekly episode of The Horse & Hound Podcast, H&H’s Pippa Roome talks to top event rider Jonelle Price, who discusses her trips to Kentucky and Badminton this year and she also reflects on her win at Badminton in 2018. H&H’s Jennifer Donald then catches up with H&H’s Gemma Redrup to review the Grand National, while H&H’s Polly Bryan takes a look back on the World Cup Finals. Pippa then talks to the H&H news team to discuss equine I.D, insurance for coaches and careers for ex-racehorses. Finally, we’ll be hearing from bits and bitting expert Tricia Nassau-WIlliams, who talks about how you can make sure you buy the correct sized bit for your horse. We hope you’ll enjoy listening.

Episode 98 of The Horse & Hound Podcast, our popular audio service available every Thursday morning for our H&H digital subscribers, is now live.

Each episode is available for all H&H fans to listen to via your favourite podcast app 24hrs after its early release to our H&H digital subscribers. Search for “The Horse & Hound Podcast” in your preferred podcast app and click subscribe to be notified about each new episode. This will allow more listeners to make The Horse & Hound Podcast an essential part of their week on Friday morning.

View all episodes of The Horse & Hound Podcast

In our 98th weekly episode of The Horse & Hound Podcast, H&H’s Pippa Roome talks to top event rider Jonelle Price, who discusses her trips to Kentucky and Badminton this year and she also reflects on her win at Badminton in 2018.

“I remember looking back to the scoreboard to check that the moment was real, and that’s something I’ll never forget” – Jonelle Price reflecting on her Badminton 2018 win.

Pippa then catches up with H&H’s Polly Bryan to review the World Cup Final in Leipzig.

“It was so much fun and great to be back at a World Cup Final as the last one happened in 2019” – H&H’s Polly Bryan on her 2022 World Cup Final experience.

H&H’s Jennifer Donald then catches up with H&H’s Gemma Redrup to review the Grand National.

“It was an amazing race and what a fairytale end to Sam Waley-Cohen’s career” – H&H’s Gemma Redrup on the 2022 Grand National result.

Pippa then talks to the H&H news team to discuss equine I.D, insurance for coaches and careers for ex-racehorses.

“All documents are currently on paper and one of the proposals is for the keepers of horses to be able to access an app to update the whereabouts of their horses” – H&H’s senior editor Eleanor Jones on the discussion around who can warm up show ponies.

Finally, we’ll be hearing from bits and bitting expert Tricia Nassau-WIlliams, who talks about how you can make sure you buy the correct sized bit for your horse.

“It never ceases to amaze me how people can get in a complete muddle about how to measure their horse’s mouth in order to buy the correct sized bit ” – Tricia Nassau-Williams

We would love to hear your feedback on all our podcasts, so please do send your thoughts to pippa.roome@futurenet.com