'Dressage prize money doesn't match up'

Carl Hester on recent internationals and the pony team selection fallout

- Oscar Williams

WELLINGTON CDI was a brilliant competition with standout numbers across the board. Over 110 FEI tests were ridden, and more than 400 in the Premier League. More than 50 national grand prix tests were ridden, and the Nirvana Collection prix st georges evening drew 17 combinations, with £2,500 going to the winner, the highest prize for any British Dressage (BD) Premier League class.

Just as impressive were the facilities at Wellington. This year, they added another inch of surface at a cost of £50,000 to keep the arena in good condition and upgraded the stabling and clubhouse facilities.

David Sheerin FBHS, Wellington's general manager, explained: “Our policy is to invest ahead of the game before repairs are needed. We reinvest any profits, and it pays off as people visiting tend to respect and look after it if we keep everything looking nice. It takes spend and effort, and our wonderful team works so hard to ensure everything looks great.”