The glitter kept coming on Sunday for the U.S. Para Dressage riders, all part of the squad that earned team gold Saturday at the FEI world championship.
They picked up three more gold medals Sunday in the Grades I, II and IV Freestyles. Fiona Howard, Marie Vonderheyden and Kate Shoemaker were crowned Freestyle World champions, with Marie and Kate sweeping Individual, Team and Freestyle honors, while Fiona added Freestyle gold to the Team title for which she contributed.
Fiona did not make the Individual podium last week, but came back strong to win the Grade II Freestyle gold with Diamond Dunes on a score of 81.866 percent.
Fiona Howard and Diamond Dunes. (USEF Photo)
“He went in there today and really gave me everything. He’s just such a special horse. I’m so proud of how he’s handled this week. My muscles are a little bit tighter today, but Dunes just took such good care of me,” Fiona said about the 13-year-old Hanoverian stallion.
Marie’s third title of the week was claimed with 80.540 percent on Fan Tastico H.
Marie Vonderheyden and Fantastico H. (USEF Photo)
“The composer designed the music just for him and I love it; it suits him very well,” Marie said of her compilation of show tunes.
“Today ended my week on a super note at an amazing and well organized event.
Kate claimed her third victory with Vianne, scoring 83.305 percent. Their floor plan included a four-loop counter-canter with a flying change in the middle section and an extended trot down the final center line.
“There are no words, really. It’s just amazing to have the ride on a horse that feels like she enjoys it so much,” Kate said of the 10-year-old Hanoverian mare.
Kate Shoemaker and Vianne (USEF Photo)
“None of this has sunk in whatsoever. To be on the hallowed showground that is Aachen and to come away with three gold medals is beyond what I could have hoped for.”