British Para Dressage Stars Excel at the 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships
At the 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships, British para dressage riders showcased their extraordinary skills and dedication. The event was a testament to the strong bond between riders and their horses, as well as the unwavering commitment that defines competitive success. Let's delve into the achievements of these talented athletes and their inspiring journeys.
Susanna Wade's Triumph in Grade I
Riding Premier Royal Mint, Susanna Wade emerged as the champion in Grade I, earning an impressive score of 70%. This victory was particularly noteworthy considering that Premier Royal Mint, a 2007 gelding by Royal Hit, hadn't competed actively in the last few years. Wade credited her trainer Jess Thompson for finding the horse and acknowledged the recent training sessions with renowned coach Spencer Wilton. Despite the horse's relative inexperience, he performed flawlessly, illustrating Wade's effective training and the horse's inherent skills.
Jemima Green's Promising Debut in Grade II
In Grade II, Jemima Green made a remarkable debut with her six-year-old gelding Fantabulous, securing the grand prix title with a score of 66.33%. The achievement is even more impressive considering Fantabulous's age and the fact that it was his first appearance at the National Dressage Championships. Green attributed their success to extensive groundwork with Alice Oppenheimer, which helped the young horse adapt to the high-pressure environment. Despite his initial shyness, Fantabulous stood his ground, reflecting meticulous preparation and innate talent.
Kate Reilly's Dominant Performance in Grade III
Kate Reilly clinched the top spot in Grade III with a score of 67.67% riding Impulz W, a 2013 gelding by Wynton x Rubenstein I. This performance marked a significant improvement over her score with another of her mounts, Lymepark Riggeletto, in the same class. Reilly’s success underscores her versatility and ability to perform consistently at a high level, making her a formidable contender for future competitions.
Fiona Maynard's Resilience in Grade IV
Fiona Maynard claimed the Grade IV title with her 2011 Oldenburg gelding Denver IX, achieving a score of 69.23% despite an uncharacteristic mistake in the medium trot. Maynard praised Denver IX for his powerful canter work and overall performance, emphasizing the strong bond they share. She also expressed her intentions to compete in the Wellington CPEDI and her aspirations to rise to intermediate I soon,demonstrating her commitment to continuous improvement.
Alice Begg's Victory in Grade V
In Grade V, Alice Begg secured the top honors with her 2009 Hanoverian gelding Gluckauf. This win adds to Begg's growing reputation as a skilled para dressage rider and underscores the potential of her horse. Their performance was a testament to their hard work and dedication, setting the stage for future success in international competitions.
Future Aspirations and Training Regimens
All the successful riders have their sights set on upcoming competitions, including the Wellington CPEDI and the European Championships. Their training regimens feature intensive groundwork and specialized coaching, crucial in preparing for these high-pressure events. Each rider emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, with every competition being a learning curve that hones their skills further.
Conclusion
The 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships were a celebration of the skill, resilience, and dedication of British para dressage athletes. The performances of Susanna Wade, Jemima Green, Kate Reilly, Fiona Maynard, and Alice Begg not only showcased their current prowess but also highlighted their potential for future success. As these riders continue to train and compete, they serve as inspiring examples of what can be achieved through hard work, determination, and a deep connection with their horses.
Source: Horse & Hound
