Tokyo Paralympics: Rixt van der Horst withdraws ahead of freestyle

Rixt van der Horst and Findsley have withdrawn from the Tokyo Paralypmic freestyle finale — Netherland's Rixt van der Horst riding Findsley competes in the Dressage Individual test - Grade Three at the Equestrian Park during day three of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games in Japan. Picture date: Friday August 27, 2021.

(Image credit: PA)

Tokyo Paralympic individual bronze and team silver dressage medal-winners Rixt van der Horst and Findsley have withdrawn ahead of tonight’s freestyle finale (30 August).

The Dutch combination are the reigning grade III freestyle champions, having won triple gold at the 2018 World Equestrian Games. They were among the favourites to take home the title from Tokyo and scored a huge new personal best in the run-up to the Games, with +80% performance in Doha in February.

“We have already had amazing results that we are happy and proud of. Today is a different day though; we have had to decide to withdraw Finn for the kür final. Due to a small unfortunate stumble while walking, she is not ‘fit to complete’. As a precaution, a number of diagnostic studies have been conducted in the clinic and we are positive, but Finn’s health and wellbeing is above all else.

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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.

Double Tokyo Paralympic medal winner withdrawn ahead of freestyle: ‘her health and well-being is above all else’

The pair already scooped individual bronze on Friday (28 August), with a score of 75.77%, and helped the Dutch side to silver with a score of 76.24% in the team test.

The 11-year-old Bellissimo mare was withdrawn ahead of the second horse inspection this morning.

“The past few days have been great, riding with the Dutch team and being here in Tokyo,” said Rixt in a statement on her Facebook page.

“Finn is well cared for and is in good hands here. Lots of hugs and love for this amazing horse. We’re glad the whole team is here to support us.

“Together we are all here, physically or in mind, encouraging Frank and Sanne in their [freestyle] to music. Thank you for all your attention, encouragement and support!”

As a result of the withdrawal, Canada’s Lauren Barwick and Sandrino, who finished ninth in the individual competition, move off the reserve spot and onto the start list for tonight’s freestyle.

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