Welcome back to Equiworld News, your weekly digest of all things equestrian, delivered straight from our base here in the heart of Scotland. As we settle into November, the crisp autumn air carries a whiff of change – a feeling that perhaps the horses too can sense, with their summer coats replaced by winter layers and the days drawing in for those long winter evenings in the stable.
But as always, the world of horses is bustling with activity! Join us as we delve into the highlights from this past week...
ShowjumpingFEI Jumping World Cup: A Dutch Double at Verona
The first leg of the FEI Jumping World Cup kicked off in Verona, Italy, with a thrilling weekend of showjumping action. And in a true testament to their equestrian prowess, Dutch riders dominated the competition.
The ever-consistent Albert Voorn triumphed in the Grand Prix, guiding the formidable “Vindicat W” to a clear round in the jump-off, claiming the coveted win ahead of Germany's Marcus Ehning on “For Pleasure.” Third place went to Dutch rider Eric Lamaze, riding "Fine Lady" who also produced a flawless jump-off.
“I am very happy with my win,” said Voorn afterwards. “Vindicat jumped so well and I was so confident with him going into the jump-off. It’s always great to start the World Cup season with a victory.”
Meanwhile, the other prestigious class in Verona – the Puissance competition - was won by Dutch star Jeroen Dubbeldam. He piloted the impressive grey "Dollar" to an incredible height of 2.10 metres, breaking the stadium record in the process!
This early victory is sure to set a positive tone for the rest of the FEI Jumping World Cup series, a thrilling rollercoaster that will see the world's top showjumpers battling it out for a coveted spot in the Final in Las Vegas next April.
DressageAmerican Dream Turns Reality at CDI-W Amsterdam
American dressage superstar, Robert Dover, and his magnificent grey gelding, "Wilamina," lived up to their billing at the CDI-W Amsterdam. In a performance that was both elegant and powerful, Dover guided "Wilamina" to victory in the Grand Prix Freestyle, securing the American’s place at the prestigious World Cup Final in Gothenburg.
The Dutch judges were particularly impressed by the pair's stunning movements and harmonious partnership, scoring them a remarkable 78.75% and solidifying their status as one of the world's leading dressage duos.
This victory serves as another impressive notch on the American duo’s already remarkable belt, and it leaves us with much to anticipate from them in the coming months.
FEI Dressage World Cup Western European League: Early Leader Emerges
With two qualifying events completed – in Amsterdam and Odense – an early leader has emerged in the Western European League of the FEI Dressage World Cup. German rider, Nadine Capellmann, topped the leader board with her powerful chestnut mare "Weiherhof's Farbenfroh", scoring a total of 203.35 points over the two competitions.
Closely trailing behind in second place are Dutch riders Edward Gal and Anky van Grunsven, the latter riding the phenomenal “Salinero" with whom she has claimed a multitude of gold medals at the Olympic and World Championship levels. This early lead from Capellmann serves as a reminder of the intense competition we can expect from these top European riders as the League continues.
EventingBritish Champions Crowned at Bramham Horse Trials
The British Eventing Championship title has been claimed by the ever-consistent Nicola Wilson on “Little Touch”, an impressive grey gelding. The pair put in a stunning performance at the prestigious Bramham Horse Trials, navigating the challenging cross-country course and performing brilliantly in both dressage and showjumping.
Nicola, a veteran of the eventing scene, added this Championship title to her ever-growing collection of wins. She secured her victory with a remarkable clear round in the showjumping final, leaving the audience in awe of her composure and expertise.
This year's Championship, however, was not without its dramas. The highly anticipated cross-country phase witnessed a number of top riders encountering problems. A testament to the demanding nature of the eventing discipline. This, however, just highlights the bravery and skills required by eventers, their partnership with their horses creating a formidable force.
RacingAmerican Classic Ends In Heartbreak For Favourites
The Breeders' Cup Classic at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, promised to be a truly spectacular affair. The world’s best racehorses, battling for ultimate glory in the heartland of thoroughbred racing. However, what transpired was not the clean-cut ending anticipated, with the result sparking controversy and disappointment for the betting public.
In a nail-biting finish, Giant’s Causeway, the Irish-bred colt trained by Aidan O’Brien, won by the narrowest of margins. Yet the initial excitement of this victory was soon clouded by allegations of interference between the first two finishers, Giant's Causeway and the British contender, Sakhee.
The American race authorities have decided to let the result stand despite several stewards' enquiries. While this is a tough decision, this is how it always goes in racing - every jockey knows and accepts the inherent danger and possible challenges involved, and this is certainly part of what keeps the sport captivating for millions across the globe.
Other NewsA Legacy Lives On - New Home Found for Champion Sire
The world mourned the loss of the legendary showjumper, “Capitol I”, this summer. His extraordinary talent and legacy, leaving an unforgettable mark on the sport. In a bittersweet tribute to his illustrious career, "Capitol I”'s sire "Capitol" has found a new home with a group of passionate breeders and enthusiasts in France, where his valuable genetics will continue to contribute to the breed.
The news of this transfer brought joy to the international community of breeders who hope for the future, “Capitol I"s genetics will inspire a new generation of champion showjumpers.
Equiworld’s Corner: Horse of the WeekThis week, we pay tribute to "Dollar" - a remarkable grey gelding owned by Jeroen Dubbeldam. This stunning steed is a force to be reckoned with in the world of showjumping.
Known for his imposing stature and remarkable jumping talent, "Dollar" has won numerous prestigious events. But his true dedication to his rider is truly evident in his incredible height achieved in Verona - soaring to 2.10 meters to break the record for the highest ever jump in the stadium! This truly makes “Dollar” our Equiworld horse of the week.
And that's it for this week. Stay tuned to our website www.equiworld.org and social media channels for all the latest equestrian news, insightful articles, and exciting updates! Until next time, happy riding!