British riders set 2 personal bests and a new world record at Compiègne CDI in France (30 May-1 June). Brits won 5 of the classes on offer.
Pony rider Phoebe Peters broke the world record for the international pony team test, scoring 80.12% with her established partner SL Lucci.
“He never fails to impress me,” said Phoebe, who is about to turn 15.
“I can’t thank my beautiful Lucci enough for all the effort he gives and for always being on my side.”
The pair now hold the record for 2 of the 3 international pony tests and must be odds on favorites for gold at this year’s pony Europeans in Ireland (29 July-3 August).
Grand prix rider Gareth Hughes won the grand prix and the special with his ever-improving little chestnut mare, DV Stenkjern Nadonna.
The pair had a nightmare at the European championships when Nadonna took fright and wouldn’t settle, posting the drop score for the bronze medal-winning team.
But the duo are now proving themselves capable and reliable on the international stage in the hope of catching the eye of selectors ahead of the FEI Alltech World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France (23 August-7 September).
The Donnerschlag daughter’s 74.11% special win was a significant step up from their previous best in that test of 70.6%.
“It’s the best test she’s ever done,” said Gareth. “She loves it when she has to passage, extend, passage; all the trot movements. She really has a lot of heart.”
Not to be outdone, Dan Sherriff won the grand prix freestyle (72.52%) riding the stallion Bayford Hall Dallaglio to an ambitious freestyle routine, including astonishing chains of tempi-changes.
A full report from Compiègne will be in next week’s Horse & Hound — out Thursday 12 June.
