Scandinavian sweep in the first individual championship in Rio
It was a Scandinavian one-two-three in the grade III individual championship in Rio this afternoon, with the medals going to Norway, Denmark and Sweden.
Ann Cathrin Lubbe claimed gold for Norway — her first medal on the striking nine-year-old Donatello, a Danish warmblood by Uno Don Diego.
“I’ve been working so hard for this; I’m so pleased,” said the 45-year-old, who posted 72.87%. “The horse did so well in there — he can be a bit of a child in the warm-up but when he comes between the boards he knows it’s time to work.”
It was a particularly emotional win for Ann Cathrin, who took the ride on this horse after his former rider, Ann’s student, was killed in a car accident two and a half years ago.
“Her parents are here with us today. This medal means everything to all of us,” she said through tears.
Denmark’s Susanne Sunesen finished close behind, picking up the silver with Que Faire, matching her result from the 2015 European Championships.
Louise Etzner Jakobsson took the competition right to the wire, snatching bronze from last-draw aboard the expressive chestnut stallion Zernard. This is Louise’s first Paralympics, and first medal.
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The British team, who have no grade III riders, continue their campaign for gold tomorrow, with Sophie Wells riding in the grade IV individual championship at 3.09pm BST. Lee Pearson will also be contesting the medals, riding as an individual at 6.18pm BST.
Britain’s other team riders, Sophie Christiansen, Anne Dunham and Natasha Baker will perform for a second time on Thursday.
More information about how to follow the Paralympic dressage can be found here, and don’t forget to stay tuned to the H&H website for the latest news, results and scores.
Don’t miss our full Paralympic report in the 22 September issue of H&H.
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