The CPEDI3* riders completed the Grand Prix B tests today, while the CPEDI2* competitors rode the Intermediate B. Generally, the degree of difficulty in these tests can be considered more technically challenging. For this reason, I personally like that these tests are completed on the second day of competition. There was a period a few years back where the FEI changed the order and the B tests were completed first, and I must admit I think it was a wise decision to change this back. I just feel it gives riders the ability to ease into the slightly more challenging test on day two.
More qualifying scores
Today saw multiple riders in the CPEDI3* gain their second qualifying score (67+%) for the FEI World Championships next year, and several athletes produced 70%+ tests; a testament to the level of performance and skill on display!
We had several CPEDI2* and CPEDI3* athletes hit PBs and scores in the 70% range, which is no easy feat and incredible for para dressage in Australia.
Lisa Martin and Vilaggio scored a whopping 74.781% in the CPEDI3*Grade V Grand Prix Test B today. To put it simply, this test was stunning to watch! This was an honest example of world class competition in which horse and rider worked together to produce incredibly competitive scores. Lisa brought power, presence and accuracy to this ride, and really left nothing behind. This horse has three stunning paces, with spectacular elevation, while demonstrating an ease to every movement throughout. This is a VERY thrilling start to our selection process, and I am incredibly excited to see what these two can achieve in their Freestyle tomorrow.
Lisa’s score was closely followed by Mietta Innes-Irons and Sir Helmut, who placed second in the CPEDI3* Grade V. This exciting combination improved on yesterday’s performance and gained a score of 72.281%! Comparatively, this pair is what I would consider a new combination, so to be producing scores of this calibre at a CPEDI3* event is a huge achievement; Mietta and Helmut are certainly ones to watch in the very near future. I am SO eager to see what their Freestyle brings tomorrow and hope that they can continue to improve their scores over the three consecutive days.
Bridget and ‘Macey’ shine again
Other extremely notable performances from today include Bridget Murphy and Penmain Promise in the CPEDI3* Grade II Grand Prix B, who achieved 73.000%, which means TWO scores of over 73% in two days for this combination. This proves they are consistently producing the highest quality of work required to gain these impressive scores.
Claire Graham took the win in the CPEDI3* Grade III Grand Prix B test with a huge score of 72.500%, followed closely by Ella Newbery, who came second with a new PB of 70.055%!
Zoe Vorenas won the CPEDI3* Grade IV Grand Prix B on a score of 70.450%, with Helen Batson keeping them on their toes in second place and a score of 69.725%.
As was the case yesterday, every winner from the CPEDI3* classes today finished on scores over 70%.
Combinations that gained their first qualifying score of over 67% today, that didn’t quite gain the marks yesterday, include Maddison Cooke riding Byalee Magic II who scored 68.111%, finishing in second place in the CPEDI3* Grade II Grand Prix B class today.
The winning riders from the CPEDI2* classes were Felicity Weal in the Grade III scoring 68.871%, and Kirsty Van Loon in the Grade IV scoring 69.247%.
Grace Murphie-Ryan produced a lovely test in the Virtus II3 Grade IV Intermediate A on her mount Pemberton Show Biz, gaining a score of 68.667%.
Virtus II2 Grade III Intermediate B was won by Chloe Karsten and Riff Raph, while the Virtus II1 Grade IV Intermediate A went to Kyle Chapman and Chapplehurst Mozique.
I can genuinely say that I’m not sure the last para competition I attended in which this number of competitors scored over 70%. This is such an exciting time for para sport in Australia, and I can’t wait to see what happens as the remaining qualifying events unfold next year.
Catch up on all the results from the CPH Dressage Extravaganza here via Equipe.
Tune in with Equestrian Life & ClipMyHorse.TV
For those unable to attend Boneo Park and catch the action live, ClipMyHorse.TV is livestreaming Ring 1 competition from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 November with expert commentary from Emma Booth and Roger Fitzhardinge.
Watch the action live via Equestrian Life, or live and on-demand with ClipMyHorse.TV.
