Foto: Katharina Hemmer/Denoix PCH - Fotograf: © one_photographiefrance
The FEI European Dressage Championship kicked off this morning in the stunning setting of the Jiva Hill Stables. Under the watchful eye of Frenchman Raphael Saleh, President of the Ground Jury, the first twenty-nine horse-and-rider combinations entered the arena. And already, this opening day brought its share of drama and excitement.
Fourth into the ring, Danish rider Nadja Aaboe Sloth, aboard Favour Gersdorf, led the competition at midday with a score of 71.227%. By the end of the day, she holds an honorable provisional third place, securing a spot on the virtual podium for Denmark.
Currently in second place is British rider Becky Moody. A top contender for the title this week, Moody and Jagerbomb made two significant errors — an unplanned flying change during the canter and a miscount in the zigzag — which limited their score to 74.829%, falling short of the rider’s expectations. Nevertheless, Great Britain remains in second place provisionally, with Carl Hester and Charlotte Fry still to come tomorrow. With all three of its Paris 2024 Olympic pairs entered, Team GB still has strong chances, despite the unfortunate elimination of Andrew Gould earlier today.
For Germany, the day began with disappointment following Ingrid Klimke’s test. The multi-medaled eventing rider, making only her second appearance on the national dressage team, had to manage a rather tense Vayron NRW and reached a modest 69.348% — well below her usual standards. But things turned around in the afternoon for the Mannschaft thanks to Katharina Hemmer and Denoix PCH. At just 31 and in her first championship appearance, the young rider earned an impressive 75.699%, placing her at the top of the provisional rankings. Tomorrow, it will be Frédéric Wandres and Isabell Werth’s turn to compete. The final showdown in the team competition promises to be intense!
On the French side, the day offered encouraging performances from Anne-Sophie Serre and Bertrand Liegard. Anne-Sophie Serre, riding her fiery Jibraltar de Massa, exited the arena with a score of 67.407%. Bertrand Liegard’s partner, Ginger, appeared a bit overwhelmed and concluded her test with a score of 66.227%. The French team will count on Pauline Basquin and Alexandre Ayache tomorrow to raise the teams rankings and secure spots for Friday’s Grand Prix Special.
Stay tuned tomorrow from 10 a.m. for the continuation of this thrilling competition. The team medal ceremony will take place following the event. Find the start lists and live results at www.worldsporttiming.com
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