Welcome to another edition of Equiworld News, bringing you the latest equestrian happenings from around the globe. Today, we delve into the thrilling world of showjumping, with reports from the prestigious Longines Global Champions Tour, explore the elegant world of dressage, featuring the captivating CDI5* Aachen, and get you up-to-date on the ever-exciting Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Join us as we take you on a ride through the heart of the equestrian world!
Showjumping:
- Longines Global Champions Tour: An electrifying showdown in Hamburg.
The Longines Global Champions Tour reached its penultimate stop in Hamburg, Germany, this past weekend. The action was fast-paced and breathtaking as some of the world's top riders battled it out for a coveted spot on the podium. Harrie Smolders proved to be unstoppable in the Grand Prix competition, securing the first-place position and claiming valuable Championship points. This impressive win put Smolders firmly back in the spotlight, rekindling the excitement for the upcoming final showdown in Prague. Peder Fredricson, renowned for his consistent success, held the lead for most of the competition before ultimately settling for second place. Meanwhile, a stellar performance from the ever-consistent Ben Maher secured him the bronze medal, making this an incredibly successful event for the British rider. Keep your eyes peeled for the exciting conclusion of the LGCT season in Prague, where the championship will be decided!
- CSI4* Oliva Nova: British rider Holly Smith shines bright.
British rider Holly Smith, known for her exceptional skills and unwavering dedication, secured a podium finish at the CSI4* Oliva Nova, held in Spain. She triumphed in the 1.50m Speed Challenge aboard her trusted partner Fruchthunger. Holly’s consistent performance across the weekend cemented her status as a top contender in the international show jumping scene. Her impressive wins serve as an excellent showcase for British equestrianism and will undoubtedly boost her standing as she competes in other major competitions around the world.
Dressage:
- CDI5* Aachen: The world’s best dressage athletes converge in Germany.
The captivating CDI5* Aachen, held in the heart of Germany, served as a platform for the world’s elite dressage riders to demonstrate their exceptional skills and equine partnerships. Germany, known for its unwavering dominance in dressage, dominated the competition with riders like Isabell Werth and Jessica von Bredow-Werndl showcasing the strength and talent of the German equestrian team.
In the Grand Prix competition, it was the talented Jessica von Bredow-Werndl and her captivating mount Tsfja who stole the show. Their flawless performance garnered a remarkable score of 85.649% that solidified their top position and highlighted their unparalleled ability in dressage. Following closely in second place was the iconic Isabell Werth paired with her loyal partner Bella Rose, demonstrating yet again why she continues to be a household name in the equestrian world.
- The Olympic spirit shines bright: Dressage at Tokyo 2020
While the Tokyo 2020 Olympics have already concluded, we couldn’t neglect mentioning the magnificent display of dressage showcased at the games. Germany’s Jessica von Bredow-Werndl once again proved her prowess by claiming the gold medal alongside her exceptional mare Tsfja, marking an undeniable triumph for the German dressage team.
Eventing:
- Blair Castle International Horse Trials: A taste of Scottish charm and equine competition
This weekend saw the thrilling conclusion of the Blair Castle International Horse Trials, held in the picturesque heart of Scotland. A testament to the resilience and determination of horse and rider, this challenging event offered a true test of athleticism and strategic acumen. Nicola Wilson and James, their winning partnership in the CCI4*-L class, are worthy contenders for the prestigious Blair Castle International Horse Trials crown, showcasing their remarkable partnership and unwavering focus on the ultimate goal: an exceptional performance at one of the world’s most recognised and respected equestrian events.
Horse Shows and Competitions:
- Royal Windsor Horse Show: A celebration of equine excellence.
The esteemed Royal Windsor Horse Show came to a glorious end last month, showcasing a vibrant mix of disciplines including dressage, show jumping, carriage driving, and equestrian games. This highly anticipated event is much more than a showcase of competitive sport; it's a celebration of equestrian culture in all its grandeur, attracting spectators and enthusiasts from across the world. It was here that the UK’s highly anticipated The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, celebrating the milestone 70 years of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s reign, took place, making this edition of the show even more special than ever before.
- The FEI World Para Dressage Championships: A true celebration of human spirit and equestrian excellence.
The recent FEI World Para Dressage Championships held in Hartpury, UK, proved to be an emotional spectacle. Athletes showcased extraordinary skill, perseverance and sheer determination as they battled it out for global recognition. With victories going to riders from across the globe, the championships reinforced the powerful connection between humans and horses and demonstrated how equestrianism can serve as a unifying force.
Around the World:
- New research sheds light on the origins of horses
New groundbreaking research on the origin and evolution of horses reveals fascinating details about their ancient lineage. Findings suggest that horses may have originated from a distinct area, possibly in central North America, highlighting the intricate story behind the horse's evolution across the planet. These findings will be published in the upcoming edition of the highly acclaimed academic journal “Nature.”
- An exclusive interview with an Olympian.
We had the exclusive opportunity to chat with Laura Kraut, the renowned Olympic showjumper, about her experiences in Tokyo. She revealed valuable insights into the preparation and strategy behind the gold medal winning performance, emphasising the pivotal role of team spirit and unwavering dedication to achieving such success. Keep an eye out for this exclusive interview in our next newsletter!
- Equiworld opens its doors to the world.
We are thrilled to announce that we are currently welcoming visitors to our equestrian facility at Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland. We are passionate about horses and our love for them spills into the experiences we offer. Whether it’s the stunning views, the invigorating trails, or the exciting workshops, Equiworld offers an immersive equestrian experience, ideal for riders of all levels.
Conclusion:
As another weekend concludes, the equestrian world continues to stir with activity. From the global stages of showjumping to the precision and beauty of dressage, the equestrian community demonstrates its dynamic nature, inspiring audiences with feats of athleticism, partnership, and grace.
This has been Equiworld News #100887. For more updates, news, and information on everything equestrian, be sure to visit our website at www.equiworld.org or subscribe to our newsletter. Until next time, happy riding!