Andre Thieme has bowed out of the German squad for next month’s world championships, after DSP Chakaria, his normally reliable mare, showed some hesitation at the water jump during last weekend’s Falsterbo, Sweden, show.
“I noticed in Falsterbo that Chakaria is currently not jumping the water ditch with the confidence she normally shows. In the interest of my horse and the team, I have therefore decided to waive a start at the world championships. We don’t want to take any risks and will now work quietly on giving her full confidence back at the water.”
It’s too bad for the Germans — among the favorites for the team gold medal — since Andre and his horse in 2024 won the Rolex grand prix at Aachen, the venue where the championships will be held.
Andre Thieme and DSP Chakaria after winning the Aachen grand prix two years ago.
Marcus Ehning, no stranger to top sport, will ride Coolio to take Andre’s place. The first reserve is now 2024 Olympic individual gold medalist Christian Kukuk with Checker. The Germans do not lack depth.