FEI World Cup Finals, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
PATRIK KITTEL won the World Cup Final at the ninth time of asking, riding Touchdown. The freestyle went to the wire, as the top three were drawn last – and split by just 0.26% in the final reckoning.
But the Swede’s James Bond routine stole the show, with Denmark’s Nanna Skodborg Merrald second aboard Blue Hors Don Olymbrio, and Germany’s Isabell Werth third on DSP Quantaz.
Patrik remembered being a spectator when his now trainer Louise Natthorst won the World Cup Final 26 years ago.
“I couldn’t believe how cool the World Cup was – and now I’ve won it myself,” said Patrik. “It makes me cry! I’ve done so many World Cup Finals, so better late than never.”
But there was drama when the favourite Lottie Fry’s ride Everdale was eliminated under the blood rule. The runaway grand prix winners were drawn first from the final quartet, but the steward stopped them shortly after they entered the stadium.
The packed stands were treated to three contrasting tests in this climax. Nanna tried out her new sombre, dramatic music for Don Olymbrio. At times the 16-year-old looked a trifle tight but he was pinpoint accurate and proved how relaxed he was as he wandered out on a loose rein lapping up the applause. They blasted into the lead, held for a long time by
This story is from the April 25, 2024 edition of Horse & Hound.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the April 25, 2024 edition of Horse & Hound.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
New competition and classification to mean dressage will be for all
The new partnerships with British Dressage will provide opportunities for riders with intellectual disabilities
Pressure grows on the FEI to tackle concerns in dressage
A leading judge has made some recommendations he believes will help support the sport's future
Aidan Coleman
Just a week after he announced his enforced retirement with a career-ending injury, Aidan Coleman talks through his raw emotions with Kate Johnson as he ponders life outside the weighing room
Badminton groundsman
Phil Cole on flawless going for cross-country, perfecting his craft on polo pitches and being at the mercy of the weather
Pulling power
Carriage-driving horses have a very specific job, and with that can come specific injury risks. Rosie Mould MRCVS explains
'Plenty to get your teeth into'
This year's Badminton track is testing, but fair, says Nicola Wilson, the 2021 European champion who finished in the top 10 at this five-star four times
Townend leads British domination
The world number one spearheads a British clean sweep of the podium as he contests his 100th five-star
Birch is back in the big time
A former Olympic reserve rider scores her first international win in four years, while Kelsall specialists make their mark again
Comeback queens reign
Rehab work pays off for Anna Ross as she makes a winning return, while a pair of young riders' birthday wishes come true
Pender keeps it in the family
Ireland's Mikey Pender begins a remarkable grand prix winning double and it all comes together in the ring for a \"special character\"