Triumphs And Training Insights From The 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships- just horse riders

Triumphs And Training Insights From The 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships

The 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships: Triumphs and Training Insights

Overview of the Championships

The 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships stood out as a beacon of skill, determination, and strategic training. This event, cherished in the dressage community, showcased numerous impressive performances from both seasoned and new competitors. Talented riders and their horses demonstrated what can be achieved through dedication and effective training strategies.

Bryony Goodwin's Remarkable Hat-Trick

Without a doubt, one of the most notable highlights was Bryony Goodwin and her nine-year-old horse, Dion II, by Dante Weltino. They surprised everyone by securing a hat-trick of titles in the Topspec medium gold and Bret Willson advanced medium silver classes. Goodwin candidly shared her surprise, as Dion was relatively new to these advanced levels. She had aimed for a top-five finish in a competitive medium class but ended up achieving much more. Goodwin attributes Dion II's success to his smooth movement and relaxed demeanor, praising his rideability despite the increasing demands of advanced medium levels. Co-owner Sam Bolton also played a crucial role by prioritizing Dion's happiness over merely chasing titles. This thoughtful approach means Dion II will not be pushed towards the Winter Championships but instead will be trained for potential progress to the Prix St Georges (PSG) level next year.

Krack DE: Another Star in Goodwin's Stable

Goodwin’s triumph did not end with Dion II. Her other horse, Krack DE, owned by Antonia Brown, also delivered impressive performances. Krack DE won the Fairfax Saddles PSG silver and placed second in the advanced medium behind Dion II. Despite being a bit weary, Krack DE's satisfactory delivery showcased Goodwin's skill and versatility across different horses.

Para Dressage Achievements

The championships also underscored significant achievements in para dressage. Susanna Wade, riding Premier Royal Mint, a 2007 gelding by Royal Hit, clinched the grade I grand prix title with a score of 70%. This was noteworthy since Premier Royal Mint had not competed in recent years and was fairly new to Wade. Their recent training with Spencer Wilton clearly paid off, setting them up for further competitions like the Wellington CPEDI in October and potentially the next European Championships. Another standout was Jemima Green and her 2018 gelding, Fantabulous. Despite being shy, Fantabulous stepped up to the challenge and secured the grade II grand prix title, thanks to extensive groundwork with Alice Oppenheimer. The pair is also gearing up for Wellington and aiming for the European Championships.

Potential of Young Horses

The event didn't just focus on seasoned stars; it also highlighted the potential of younger horses. Fiona Maynard and her 2011 Oldenburg gelding, Denver IX, won the grade IV grand prix title with a 69.23% score. Despite an unexpected mistake in the medium trot, Denver IX's powerful canter work and engaging personality impressed many. Maynard has ambitious plans, aiming to elevate to intermediate I levels soon, with upcoming participation at the Wellington CPEDI.

Essence of Training and Development

The 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships not only spotlighted talent but emphasized the importance of careful, strategic training and development. From Jemima Green's extensive groundwork with Fantabulous to Susanna Wade’s collaboration with Spencer Wilton, it was evident that strategic training plans tailored to each horse's needs played a pivotal role. Similarly, Sam Bolton's supportive approach to Dion II underscores the importance of prioritizing a horse’s well-being and happiness alongside competitive goals.

Conclusion

The 2024 LeMieux National Dressage Championships offered a compelling narrative of triumph, training, and dedication. From Bryony Goodwin’s unexpected hat-trick to the impressive performances in para dressage and the promising futures of young horses, the event was a true celebration of the best in British dressage. These riders and horses continue to inspire the broader equestrian community, proving that dedication, mutual trust, and strategic training can lead to remarkable achievements. For more detailed coverage, visit the links provided: - [Lewis Carrier and Diego V win the grand prix at the National Dressage Championships](https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/lewis-carrier-diego-v-win-grand-prix-830998) - [Gareth Hughes pilots remarkable family horse to grand prix freestyle victory at National Dressage Championships](https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/gareth-hughes-grand-prix-freestyle-victory-831000) Credit: [Horse & Hound](https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/talented-pair-of-horses-achieve-surprise-hat-trick-of-national-dressage-championship-titles-830995)
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