Euro Cup Dressage Event: Value Falters in Competition
In the heart of France, at the European Dressage Championships in Crozet, Isabell Werth secured another medal for her impressive collection. The German rider, known as the most successful in the world, won bronze in the final Kur with her mare Wendy.
Werth's journey to the podium began with a bronze medal in the Grand Prix Special on Friday. After the competition, she expressed her satisfaction, stating, "I'm super satisfied." However, she saw room for improvement, as Wendy started the season late and had a small injury in the spring.
On the final day of competition, Werth and Wendy delivered a strong performance, earning a score of 88.046 percent. Despite some small issues, Werth was pleased, commenting, "the rest was really great." This performance secured her third place in the Kur, narrowly missing her 10th individual gold medal at a European Championship.
Meanwhile, Justin Verboomen made history for Belgian equestrianism. Riding Zonik Plus, Verboomen won the Kur with an impressive score of 89.964 percent, securing the first dressage gold in Belgian equestrian history.
Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour from Denmark finished second in the Kur with Freestyle and a score of 89.821. Frederic Wandres with Bluetooth finished fifth, with Wandres noting that his performance improved from day to day.
Ingrid Klimke with Vayron did not start in the Kur, as only three pairs per nation were allowed to compete. Katharina Hemmer, an EM debutant, finished 11th in the Kur with Denoix.
Before the conclusion of the European Championships, Werth showed ambition, stating, "I will try to win." Despite missing out on gold in the Kur, Werth's performance in Crozet added to her impressive collection of medals, including gold with the German team and individual bronze in the Grand Prix Special.
