Showjumper contests Belgium WEG selection
Showjumper Constant van Paesschen and the owner of his ride Citizenguard Toscan de Sainte Hermelle are contesting the Belgium selection for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG).
The 20-year-old, who helped seal a Belgium victory at the Nations Cup in Rome (23 May) by jumping a double clear, was not included in the squad that was announced on Monday (18 August).
The Belgium equestrian federation (FRBSE) has confirmed that legal action has been brought by Constant and the firm Imminvest.
“Our advisors are studying the matter and will respond appropriately,” said a statement released by the FRBSE.
“The FRBSE further confirms its full confidence in the selection made.
“Our primary concern is to ensure that those selected can focus on sport and be well prepared for the start of the World Equestrian Games.”
The team that has been selected is: Pieter Devos (Dream of India Greenfield), Jos Lansink (Ensor de Litrange LXII), Olivier Philippaerts (Cabrio van de Heffinck), Gregory Wathelet (Conrad de Hus). Jos Verlooy with Domino is reserve.
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Updated: Thursday 21 August 20:00
The Belgian Court of Arbitration for Sport has ruled in favour of Constant van Paesschen, giving him a spot on the Belgian showjumping team in Normandy.
The FRBSE now has to decide which of the riders listed above will have to step down in order for Constant to join the team.
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Sophia Heath joined Horse & Hound in July 2013 having previously worked for the Daily Telegraph's Olympics website, CNN International and Omnisport. A Durham graduate with a Masters in journalism from City University, Sophia has evented, showjumped and hunted. Sophia left Horse & Hound in early 2015 to join an international boating website.