LeMieux Nationals 2024: Day Two Unveils Thrilling Dressage Talent
The LeMieux National Dressage Championships at Somerford Park once again impressed enthusiasts on its second day, showcasing incredible talent and the bond between horse and rider. Let's dive into the various highlights of this monumental day, which included the crowning of six new national champions across different categories.
KBIS Young Dressage Horse Four-Year-Old Champion
The day began with a stunning performance from Jezz Palmer on Premier, who achieved an outstanding score of 90.00%. This dynamic duo showcased a powerful partnership, with Premier, owned by Martin Price, impressing judges with their exceptional trot. Palmer described Premier as talented but cheeky, which adds a little humor and charm to their story. The spectacular score solidified their position as champions in the KBIS Young Dressage Horse Four-Year-Old category.
Saracen Horse Feeds Gold Inter I Championship
In a fiercely competitive class, Laura Tomlinson shone brightly, securing the top spot on Forest Hill with a score of 71.765%. Not one to rest on her laurels, Tomlinson also nabbed second place with Full Moon II, who earned a score of 71.147%. Both horses, bred at home, showcased unique personalities, but it was Forest Hill's super expressive changes that clinched the win.
Tomlinson attributed her horses' success to their steady competition demeanor and expressive performances, something every dressage enthusiast aims to perfect.
TopSpec Medium Silver Championship
Caroline Hunt and Fancy That captivated the judges with a performance that earned them an impressive 73.000%. Hunt, who has owned Fancy That since the horse was a two-year-old, emphasized the importance of relaxed preparation and credited her strong support network for their continuous success. It’s always heartening to see how the effort behind the scenes pays off in the ring.
Bettalife Novice Gold Champion
The Bettalife Novice Gold Championship was a roller coaster with Alice Peternell and Newton D taking top honors with a score of 74.185%. Despite a rocky start where Newton D almost unseated her, Peternell's composure and her support team's encouragement got them back on track. This remarkable comeback speaks volumes about the resilience required in competitive dressage.
Fairfax Saddles Prix St Georges Freestyle Gold Championship
Sarah Higgins put on a spectacular show with Geniaal, achieving a score of 77.150% to win the Fairfax Saddles Prix St Georges Freestyle Gold Championship. Using music borrowed from a friend, Higgins’ routine resonated perfectly with Geniaal's performance, showcasing their incredible synchrony and partnership.
Fairfax Saddles Prix St Georges Silver Championship
Bryony Goodwin, riding Krack DE, claimed victory with a score of 69.882%. Having started working with Krack DE only in April, Goodwin credited consistent training and support from Sarah Pincus for their seamless performances and success in maintaining their winning form from regional competitions.
Highlighting the Power of Community
One of the standout messages from the LeMieux Nationals is the importance of community and support networks. Successful riders like Laura Tomlinson and Sarah Higgins emphasize a combined effort involving not just the riders but also trainers, grooms, and other staff working tirelessly behind the scenes. This underscores the critical role support teams play in achieving greatness in competitive dressage.
Masterclasses and On-the-Ground Education
In addition to the competitions, the LeMieux Nationals provided educational content for spectators. Laura Tomlinson led masterclass sessions offering invaluable insights into building strong rider-horse partnerships. The blend of practical advice and real-world experiences made these sessions a favorite among attendees.
Live Coverage and Interviews
The event wasn’t just confined to the arenas but extended through live coverage by media outlets like Radio Nationals, helmed by Kim Ratcliffe and John Bowen, providing expert commentary and interviews. The BD Fan Zone saw engaging interviews from prominent riders such as Becky Moody, Natasha Baker, and Abi Lyle, focusing on topics ranging from Olympic success to balancing careers and motherhood. The comprehensive coverage ensured that even those not present at the event could feel the excitement and learn from the professionals.
Conclusion
The second day of the LeMieux National Dressage Championships was a true celebration of talent, dedication, and the unbreakable bond between horse and rider. With six new champions crowned, the day was filled with inspiring performances and insightful commentary, proving once again why these championships are a cornerstone in the dressage world. As the event continues to grow and attract top talent, it remains pivotal in promoting dressage and nurturing the next generation of equestrian stars.
For more information, please visit British Dressage.
Royal Equestrian.
