A show jumping star finally gets his wish in Dublin

A show jumping star finally gets his wish in Dublin

The Rolex Grand Prix of Ireland once again showed off the genius of Irish course designer Alan Wade, as he produced a thriller of a nine-horse jump-off from a field of 40 in Sunday’s class worth $1.155 million.

The first round in Dublin, as produced by the man who will lay out the fences for the LA 28 Olympics, offered plenty of suspense also. World number one and FEI World Cup champion Kent Farrington of the USA, who seemed to enjoy an edge on the remarkable Greya, clipped a back rail at the C element of the triple combination to wind up fourteenth with four faults.

Looking toward LA28, Kent carefully conserves Greya, who was not part of the victorious U.S. team in Friday’s Nations Cup. (Click here to read about it.)

Kent’s perspective on LA28  also is why he bowed out of team consideration for the world championships later this month.

No U.S. rider made the tiebreaker. Best-placed in eleventh, the second-fastest of the 4-faulters, was Natalie Dean with Acota M. Natalie was a late call-up to the U.S. squad for the championships with Mr. Boombastic, the horse she rode on the squad that took the Aga Khan trophy in the Nations Cup.

Laura Kraut, the winner of the grand prix on Bisquetta last year when there was no jump-off, did not have the same kind of luck this time around on Una Mariposa. After a splash in the water jump during the first round, her mare crashed into the green wall obstacle and disarranged it. With no point in continuing, she withdrew.

As always, there was hope for an Irish winner at the Royal Dublin Society showgrounds (where the Anglesea stands have been beautifully remodeled along the grass field for extra visual impact).

The grass arena showed off a variety of fences, which you can read about in the Nations Cup article linked four paragraphs up). The rails fell all around the course, and more than one hoof touched water, as everyone strove to make the 80-second time allowed, which 10 competitors were unable to accomplish.

Alan Wade

The first fence in the class was a vertical flanked by horseheads, and it had no groundline, which offered a challenge, as did the Holy Cross Abbey windows on either side of another vertical. Appropriately, the triple combination, and the final fence of the class after it were all in Rolex yellow and green. The literature fence, with a cover of James Joyce’s Ulysses on the side, was a narrow obstacle that caught more than its share of errors.

Jordan Coyle, who has had an amazing week, including helping the Irish team to second place in the Nations Cup and tying for victory with Rachel Proudley in the puissance Saturday night, as well as other top prizes, came close to delivering the grand prix for his homeland. But his clear tiebreaker round in 39.27 seconds on Chaccolino wound up less than two seconds short of what would be the winning trip.

That belonged to 2012 Olympic individual gold medalist Steve Guerdat of Switzerland in 37.81 seconds on Albfuehren’s Iashin Sitte, a Belgian warmblood who has been Steve’s consistent partner. The son of Bamako de Muze helped his rider realize a longtime dream, as he carried him to the fourth Swiss victory in the class since 2017.

Steve Guerdat realized a dream in Dublin.

“I’m aware of the history of that class and that’s why it means so much to me, besides the prize money. That’s the reason I do the sport,” said Steve, ranked sixteenth in the world.

“I try every year, really hard, but my name was not on the list yet. But I kept on trying and trying. I didn’t have the best of the week, but today is an amazing day for sure and one to remember for me.

“It’s about 15 or 20 years I come here  and I try hard every year. And every year to leave that ring as a loser on Sunday, I feel like I let the people down That class always meant a lot to me. I always thought I would not stop my career until I could put that class on my list. That is one I will remember. Thank you, Dublin.”

On the podium: runner-up Jordan Coyle of Ireland, Steve Guerdat of Switzerland with his trophy and Arne Van Heel of the Netherlands in third.

For his part, Jordan also was pleased,  explaining it had been “the best week of my life. I really try every time I come here to do the best I can to entertain everyone and do the best I can, so  thank you everyone who supports us and I’ll be back next year.”

Third place went to Arne van Heel of the Netherlands, who had the unenviable position of being first to go in the class. He was also first in the jump-off, as a result, and finished in a respectable 41.47 seconds with Keaton HV. He’s not a household name yet; Arne is number 517 on the ranking list and he has limited 5-star experience, so it’s quite a coup for him to be on the podium in one of the world’s most famous venues.

Noting “It feels incredible,” Arne, a member of the seventh-place Dutch team in the Nations Cup, commented it was “My first time I can ride here. This horse is quite new at this level.so I’m really happy how we did today. She’s amazing.”

And in his view, so was the show: “All the people, the grounds, the atmosphere — just  an unbelievable feeling. and hopfully, I can come next year back.”

Dublin showcased a lot of names with which you wouldn’t be familiar. While the oldest rider was 71-year-old John Whitaker of Great Britain, one of the most famous people in the sport, at the other end of the scale, there was 20-year-old Logan Fiechter of the Netherlands, thirtieth in the grand prix on Lieverella. One of the great things about equestrian competition is that there is room for a wide variety of ages and experience.

And it’s interesting to see the new faces who are making their way up the ranks. Finishing just off the podium in fourth was army Lt. Michaeli Byrne, riding the Irish Minister of Defense’s MSH Claregalway. The lieutenant rode sharp and looked sharp in her green uniform. She understandably was a crowd favorite, so look forward to seeing more of her.

Ireland’s Lt. Michaeli Byrne

Click here for results

U.S. takes Aga Khan trophy in Dublin

U.S. takes Aga Khan trophy in Dublin

The U.S. produced a clear-cut, fault-free victory Friday in Dublin to reclaim the coveted golden Aga Khan trophy for the Nations Cup that it also won in 2024, and seven times before that as well.

The competition was held on the century mark for the class, making it even more significant and historic for the teams from eight nations who competed.

“This trophy here, the Aga Khan, is the best, most important iconic trophy in our sport, period. Hands down,” exclaimed U.S. Coach Robert Ridland, comparing it in terms of reverence to hockey’s Stanley Cup.

Everything about the show prompts a special feeling, and no one can forget winning at the Gallagher Dublin Horse Show.

“To do it on its hundredth anniversary is iconic. That was one heck of a Nations Cup. It went down to the wire and was a duel to the finish,” said Robert.

“All four (U.S.) riders had a part in it, and that to me is important, because so many times, even when you win a Nations Cup, someone might have been the discard score both times. All four riders were on the podium and basking in their glory.”

(For some, it may be worth noting that of the five people, including Robert, who were on that podium, all were Californians except Laura Kraut.)

There was no need for a jump-off, as the Irish — tied on zero penalties with the U.S. through most of the two-round competition — wound up on a total of 4 faults in second place. The Irish anchor rider, Cian O’Connor on Kentucky TN, did not need to compete in the first round as his teammates were fault-free. But when he appeared for the crucial second round, his horse dropped the front rail at the B element of the triple combination, putting the trophy in eager U.S. hands.

The USA’s victorious Dublin team of Karl Cook, Natalie Dean, Coach Robert Ridland, Laura Kraut and Paris Sellon.

Earlier in the second round, Irish team rider Shane Sweetnam, fault-free in the first round on Coriaan van Klapscheut Z,  toppled a pole at the black and gold vertical flanked by replicas of the Aga Khan cup. It was fence 9 of 15 jumping efforts on the course laid out by LA2028 Olympic course designer Alan Wade. Cian’s mishap gave the Irish a total 4 penalties overall, because one of the 4’s was the drop score. Third was Switzerland on eight penalties.

The U.S. had double-clears from pathfinder Karl Cook (Caracole de la Roque) and team newcomer Paris Sellon (Chad Blue PS), who happily carried the Aga Khan trophy around the arena during the victory lap. Robert noted Paris, who has a relatively new horse, was a late addition to the team, when some switching around was required.

Of Cara, his 2024 Olympic team silver medal mount, Karl said, “she’s just such an amazing mare every time she goes in. She loves the sport. the fans here are amazing and it makes the show even better.”

Robert had a plan in place for the jump-off, had one been required. Having Karl go first meant that if he had to compete in a jump-off, Cara would have had time to rest before the tie-breaker, as every other rider in the class took their turn.

Anchor rider Laura Kraut, on her 2024 Olympic mount, Baloutinue, had 4 faults in her first round, and Natalie Dean (Mr. Boombastic) toppled a pole at the vertical that was the C element of the triple in the second round. But both 4’s were the drop scores in each round, leaving the U.S. on a clean sheet.

“I just love Dublin. the crowd here is the best,” said Laura after delivering her perfect trip in the second round She won the grand prix at the Royal Dublin Society showgrounds last year, and hopes to do it again on Sunday.

“We love it here, the horses love it here, there’s no better place in the world,” she enthused.

Robert agreed.

“Dublin is such a special place. The fans here are knowledgeable. We’re always received well. If the Irish can’t win, we feel like we’re their second choice.”

When it comes to pomp, Dublin makes a real occasion of its team competition to highlight the importance of its beloved trophy. The presentation ceremony included a military band and bagpipers in kilts, as well as dignitaries wearing top hats. The stands were packed and the spectators never stropped cheering, adding extra decibels for the home team.

The stadium has had a big re-do, but the grass field is a familiar surface with a more elegant frame. The jumps embodied the character of Dublin and the Nations Cup. One of the standards was a wooden statue of Molly Malone, with her cockles and mussels.

Landmarks next to other jumps included green “telefon” boxes, Celtic crosses and Cashel Palace. It was a tour of the city, available without leaving the arena.

Click here for results

Two young U.S. riders will get their big chance at Aachen

Olivia Sweetnam and JJ Torano, two children of professional equestrians, have been named to ride in the youth competition being held during the Aachen world championships this month. Both already have made their mark in grands prix despite being in their teens.

The daughter of Irish rider Shane Sweetnam and his wife, Ali, Olivia will be competing on Gilona AO, a KWPN mare. JJ, the son of Jimmy and Danielle Torano, is set to ride the Hanoverian stallion Lyon 50 over the 1.45-meter fences Aug. 21-23.

Another U.S. world championships team change, and Canada has a dropout too: UPDATE

Another U.S. world championships team change, and Canada has a dropout too: UPDATE

First it was Marilyn Little withdrawing La Contessa from the U.S. show jumping team at this month’s world championships in Aachen, Germany. Then came Phillip Dutton’s substitution of his back-up mount, Denim, for Possante on the U.S. eventing team.

On Saturday the U.S. Equestrian Federation has announced another U.S. world championships team drop-out, Genay Vaughn and Gino. Their place will be taken by Meagan Davis and Toronto Lightfoot.

It’s the second change in less than a week. On Wednesday, Jordan LaPlaca said he was stepping aside from the dressage team, with Kasey Perry-Glass and Heartbeat WP taking the place of himself and Gold Play on the squad.

Jordan LaPlaca and Gold Play.

“In the spirit of staying true to my core convictions as a horseman and as a committed partner to my horse, Gold Play, I have decided to withdraw from this year’s FEI Dressage World Championships. Gold Play is okay and that is the most important thing,” Jordan announced.

“But as a member of the U.S. team, I have to do what is best not only for my horse, but for the entire team as well. This is not the end, just the beginning of great things still to come.”

Jordan, who was fifth in the national Grand Prix Championships in May, is short on experience internationally. Kasey has been a team medalist in both the Olympics and World Equestrian Games. Those honors came with her previous horse, Dublet. Heartbeat has far less milage. He and Casey were fifteenth  at the national Grand Prix championships, where they withdrew from the freestyle.

Kasey Perry-Glass and Heartbeat WP.

This is a building year for the U.S. dressage team, as it looks toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Team members will get experience at the world championships next week, but there is no chance of a U.S. medal in the discipline there.

The country is short on proven horse power at the top level. Jane, a veteran of the Paris Olympics with Marcus Orlob, has been rehabbing from injury for most of this year and was not a contender for the world championships team. The top-ranked U.S. horse internationally, Indian Rock, has been resting since the national championships, where he dropped out before the freestyle.

Things could be worse. Canada had only two entries for the world championships eventing. Now Michael Winter has withdrawn after his Olympic veteran, El Mundo, sustained an injury during his prep work and can’t compete. Now Jessica Winter and the Fluorescent Adolescent are Canada’s only represntatives in the discipline at the championships.

Mike explained about his horse, known as Roberto, “The care and well-being of Roberto, and of all our equine partners, is paramount. The most important thing is that Roberto is here at home, being well-cared for.

“Not because of what he has done for us, or what he may still do, but because he is a valued partner entrusted to our care. We have a responsibility to make the best decisions we can for him, always with his long-term welfare at heart and with the goal of creating the best possible outcomes throughout his career and his life.”

Young people can cash in during Dressage at Devon; another side of prize money for equitation

Young people can cash in during Dressage at Devon; another side of prize money for equitation

The new Dressage4Kids Youth Challenge at Fairview Partners Dressage at Devon this September will give riders between the ages of 14 and 18 a chance to win $5,000 in cash and a variety of other prizes.

The new competition, believed to offer the largest cash prize in U.S. youth dressage, will debut Sept. 27, the final day of this year’s show.

Participants will compete in both the Dressage Seat Equitation and Junior Handler classes, with the highest combined score winning the overall championship. In addition to the cash prize to the champion, other prizes will be awarded through eighth place and will include gift certificates for various products, including boots and a customized helmet.

“It’s no secret that our sport faces a few significant challenges. One, how do we get more youth excited about dressage at a younger age?, ” asked the show’s president, Nicole DelGiorno.

“Two, how do we develop the next generation of handlers and get riders interested in sporthorse breeding early on? And three, how do we celebrate and elevate the backbone of the sport, and ensure there is a next generation to pass the baton to one day?”

She explained, “The Dressage4Kids Youth Challenge was our way of addressing some of these challenges. Exceptional horsemanship, especially at the foundational levels, is something that deserves to be rewarded in a serious way. I think the $5,000 prize makes it clear that we want to invest in the future of our community.”

The format of this groundbreaking event reflects the kind of equestrian the program is intended to recognize. That’s not simply the young person with the most advanced horse, but rather, one who can ride effectively, present a horse beautifully and safely, and demonstrate a broader understanding of horsemanship.

Dressage4Kids was a natural partner for the inaugural program. Founded by Olympian Lendon Gray, the organization has spent more than two decades developing young riders through education that places horsemanship, responsibility and long-term development ahead of short-term results.

When asked about how the Youth Challenge dovetails with the mission of Dressage4Kids, Lendon said, “Dressage4Kids is definitely set up for the overall education of the rider, not just to focus on competition. The Youth Challenge makes it so that those riders who maybe don’t have the fancy horses get their chance to come and really prove that they’re becoming horsemen.”

Emelia Lewis is a young rider local to Devon, Pa., and a Youth Challenge-hopeful. When asked what the financial development means to her, she said, “I think this new class presents an exciting opportunity for a wide range of horses and riders.

“For those who may not have the ability to compete in a CDI environment, it offers the chance to still experience that elevated level of competition and atmosphere. I also believe it is incredibly important to highlight a rider’s ability to properly handle and present a horse from the ground. I am truly excited about the addition of this class and look forward to the opportunity to participate in it!”

The Dressage4Kids Youth Challenge is part of a broader effort to make Sunday at Kingsview Partners Dressage at Devon even more welcoming to families, while giving the next generation a visible place within one of the country’s best-known dressage competitions.

“We already have wonderful Sunday programming for young people with our very popular Dressage Explorers program,” Nicole said.

“There are so many things to take part in, from our famous stick horse ride to face painting to fascinating presentations from equine experts to children’s games. But we wanted kids to see that there is an attainable pathway for them here. Maybe today they are riding a stick horse down centerline, but one day they may be riding a Grand Prix horse under the lights in the Dixon Oval. The Dressage4Kids Youth Challenge gives them their first stepping stone.”

Interestingly, giving prize money for equitation is a hot topic in the hunter/jumper ranks. The U.S. Hunter Jumper Association held a forum last month on the subject that brought out advocates both for and against the concept. Prize money is not allowed in hunter/jumper equitation, but Nicole said there is no rule against it in dressage.

Those in favor of having prize money in hunter/jumper seat equitation felt with the high costs of horse-keeping, training and competition, it is important for riders to get a financial boost. Trainers also benefit financially for the classes under some formats. And others pointed out that prize money could be extended to adult amateur equitation, but someone else mentioned that might run afoul of the amateur rule.

Those against the idea of hunter/jumper equitation prize money felt it could lead to over-use of horses.

“Any time you introduce money into a horse event, the horses are the ones who take the brunt of it,” said Geoff Teall, an author, judge and trainer.

“Philosophically, I think the money for children is wrong.”

Sissy Wickes, chair of USHJA’s joint equitation task force, spoke in favor of the idea, saying she didn’t think horses would be used more because of the financial incentive, noting the idea would be to “provide some relief for the cost of horse showing.”

USHJA President Britt McCormick emphasized that no rule proposal is under consideration to allow prize money in equitation.

“The purpose of that virtual Town Hall was not to introduce a rule change, but rather to have the conversation before any proposal was developed and to determine whether the idea merited further discussion,” Britt explained.

“That is the purpose of all our Town Halls. The goal is simple: to promote discussion and create opportunities for members to engage in meaningful conversations together about issues affecting our sport. These in-person Forums and virtual Town Halls are intended to give all members a voice early in the process, so we can better understand different viewpoints before ideas advance any further.” 

Get ready for an amazing dressage face-off at the world championships

Get ready for an amazing dressage face-off at the world championships

The FEI’s monthly dressage standings have just come out, and the names at the top of the list offer the promise of a memorable world championship this month, with two horse/rider combinations having equal likelihood of earning top honors individually.

The gold is most likely to go either to Denmark’s Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour (Mount St. John Freestyle) or Belgian sensation Justin Verboomen (Zonik Plus). They each have taken turns as number one. This month, Cathrine rose from twenty-ninth to take that spot, with Justin (number one) last month, right behind. Their mounts are, not surprisingly 1-2 on the 3-star and above horse list.

Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour and Mount St. John Freestyle

Reigning world champion Lottie Fry is third in the rider rankings while her Glamourdale holds the same position in the horse hierarchy. Germany’s Isabell Werth (Wendy de Fontaine) is number four, followed by Becky Moody of Great Britain (Jagerbomb). Her compatriot, Carl Hester (Fame) stands sixth.

The highest-ranked U.S. horse ridden by an American is Christian Simonson’s star, Indian Rock, at number 13. Indian Rock is resting, however, and won’t be part of the U.S. team. Christian is riding Fleau de Baian, number 76 on the horse roster, at Aachen.

His teammate, Genay Vaughn (Gino), who dropped off the U.S. world championships team, is number 40 on the rider list.

Helix, ridden by the USA’s Adrienne Lyle, is number 51 on the horse list, but the three-time Olympian did not apply to be on the world championships team.

Devon is looking toward the future

Devon is looking toward the future

The Devon Horse Show is a “must” destination for hunter/jumper exhibitors, and attracts representatives of other disciplines as well. Another USEF Heritage competition, Fairview Partners Dressage at Devon, is held at the venue in September.

Founded in 1896, the May/June multi-breed show is a magnet for young hunter, jumper and equitation competitors, who consider being part of it a rite of passage. Amateurs gear their ambition to an appearance there. And professionals know the show season isn’t complete without a stop on the venerated showgrounds along Philadelphia’s Main Line.

Hunter riders consider a Devon ribbon a mark of excellence.

Families from the area pass down their box seats to their children and grandchildren. It’s standing room only for the Sapphire Grand Prix on the second Thursday of the 12-day show, when the place is packed to overflowing with enthusiastic spectators. Arena eventing on the first Sunday night and four-in-hand carriage competition are among the special features that attract attendance on other days.

The quaint shops offer everything from all sorts of tack to jewelry, clothing and knickknacks. The large souvenir stand does big business for souvenirs visitors are eager to take home, evidence that they have attended one of the most famous landmarks on the equestrian calendar.

Shopping opportunities abound at Devon.

But the facility has undergone a lot of wear and tear over the decades it has stood staunchly in its signature “Devon blue” and white color scheme. The footing is up-to-date, yet some of the structures around the arenas haven’t changed much over the generations. Stabling is being gradually upgraded. And the parking is an issue.

Planning to keep the facility viable in the era of far fancier, amenities-heavy showgrounds such as the World Equestrian Center or Wellington International, the Devon  Horse Show and Country Fair Foundation has announced the launch of the Devon Legacy Initiative, “a five-year, $5 million effort to preserve, restore and modernize Devon’s historic grounds and facilities.”

The initiative will support infrastructure improvements, enhanced hospitality and “exhibitor experiences;” greater accessibility and preservation projects that will help ensure Devon remains a world-class equestrian destination for future generations.

McLain Ward always makes it a point to compete at Devon.

“Our mission is to preserve, restore, and modernize the historic Devon Horse Show & Country Fair, while honoring the traditions that have defined the event for more than 130 years,” the announcement stated.

The Legacy Initiative will officially kick off with a reception on Thursday, Oct. 8 at Triple Crown Restaurant in Radnor, Pa.

“The Devon Legacy Initiative is about stewardship. This effort will help ensure future generations continue to experience the magic and impact of this treasured institution,” said  Wayne Grafton, Devon’s chairman and CEO.

For reservations, email Evan@Devonhorseshow.com or call 610-964-0550 ext. 234.

Horse Whisperer Monty Roberts passed away

Horse Whisperer Monty Roberts passed away

Author and ground-breaking trainer Monty Roberts died Saturday at his ranch in California. He was 91.

His best-selling memoir, “The Man Who Listens to Horses,”  was read by millions of people and made him an international sensation.

The horse-training method he called “Join-Up” involved trust-based communications, detailing a sympathetic way for humans to interact with them. He mentored the late Queen Elizabeth II after she learned of his methods in 1989. They often were photographed together while he worked with her horses.

Monty Roberts at work.

The son of a trainer, Monty started as a stunt double for Elizabeth Taylor and others, while training such actors as James Dean for East of Eden.

But growing up, he saw things he didn’t like in the ways people “training” horses interacted with them.

“My father trained horses in the traditional way, 6,000 years of methods handed down generationally, often violent and rarely fair to the horse. He expected me to follow in his footsteps and so I was also violently disciplined in the only way he knew how, through pain and force. I vowed to seek better methods for my horses.

“I first learned to listen to horses while observing wild mustangs in Nevada at the age of thirteen. Sent there to round up horses for the Salinas Rodeo Association’s Wild Horse Race, I spent hours silently watching the feral horses interact with each other.”

Monty and Shy Boy, who died this year at the age of 33.

Monty sought an alternative to the rough horse training involving force and fear that he too often witnessed, paving the way to the kinder natural horsemanship approach that is widely favored today.

He believed horses communicated through a language he called “Equus.” By understanding and respectfully using this language in a round pen, he showed that a trainer could invite a horse to voluntarily “join up” and choose partnership with a human.

His daughter, Debbie Roberts Loucks, commented, “For the world, he was known as the man who listens to horses. To me, he was simply Dad, a man of extraordinary kindness, unwavering integrity, and an unshakable belief that trust could accomplish what force never could.
“For more than eight decades, he dedicated his life to changing the way people understand and work with horses. His mission reached far beyond horsemanship. He believed that true leadership is built on communication, patience, empathy, and respect; lessons that have touched the lives of countless people around the world.
“Our family is deeply grateful for the love, friendship, and support you have shown him throughout his remarkable life. Your letters, visits, stories, and shared experiences have meant more than you could ever know. Together, you became part of a worldwide community united by a common belief that both horses and people thrive when they are treated with kindness and understanding.”

Through his organization, Join-Up International, based in Solvang, Calif., he promoted his methods, teaching horse owners, trainers, and even corporate leaders about non-adversarial communication.

Monty is survived by his wife, Pat Roberts; his children, Debbie and her sister, Laurel Roberts, as well as “a legacy that forever changed how humanity interacts with the horse.”

Adrienne Lyle’s students a testament to her teaching

As the Neustädter Pferdesommer dressage show in Germany came to a close on Sunday, three-time Olympian Adrienne Lyle had to take a back seat again to one of her students.

Quinn Iverson scored a personal best in the 4-star Grand Prix Special with Billie Davidson’s Gremlin 41, an Oldenburg gelding by Grey Flanell. That combination was marked at 70.745 percent for the win, while Adrienne — winner of the Grand Prix in the division on Thursday — was second with Helix on 70.383 percent. The other American in the competition, Meagan Davis, finished fifth on 67.894 percent with Toronto Lightfoot.

Although there is a large U.S. dressage contingent set to compete in Aachen, Germany, for this month’s world championships, Adrienne is not on the team, since she didn’t apply to be considered. She was the winner in May at the World Equestrian Center’s 3-star competition in Florida with Helix, a 14-year-old KWPN gelded son of Apache.

Another of Adrienne’s students, Katie Duerrhammer on Kylee Lourie’s Rosebank VH, was victorious Friday in the 1-Star Prix St. Georges on a personal best of  73.775 percent. Adrienne had to settle for second on Hussman’s Top Gun with 71.765 percent.

On Saturday, in the  1-star Intermediare I, it was the same story. Katie had another personal best in first place on Rosebank with a score of 74.559 for the 8-year-old Swedish warmblood stallion., Adrienne was second on Top Gun (72.794), who, like Helix, is owned by Zen Elite. Her biggest loss of points with the evolving son of Totilas was in the flying changes every three strides, where she received two marks of 4, two of 5 and one of 6.

On Sunday, Katie Duerrhammer won the Intermediare I with Liam Neeson, 72.939. She was the only U.S. rider in the class.

click here for results in the Grand Prix. Click here for results in the Prix St. Georges. Click here for results in the I-1. Click here for results in the Special

Dutton will be riding his reserve horse in Aachen

Dutton will be riding his reserve horse in Aachen

An injury to Possante in training has led to his replacement for the world eventing championships in Aachen this month. But Phillip Dutton still will be on the team. He had a direct back-up in Denim, who will be his starter in Germany.

“Unfortunately, Possante has come up with an injury in training. He will heal well but not in time for the WEG (world championships).. My huge condolences to Impy and all of his owners! We were really clicking well,” Phillip announced on social media.

Phillip and Possante (Any Dragoo photo)

“It has been an emotional roller coaster of a week to say the least, as, fortunately for me, Denim was then selected as Impy’s replacement. I’m really excited still to be a part of the U.S. team in a very special venue at Aachen.
Possante won the final pre-Aachen competition at the Horse Park of New Jersey last month, where Denim was second.