Michael Eilberg and Marakov ©cavadeos
Michael Eilberg and Marakov (pictured) have returned from a successful trip to Aachen CDI5*, Germany, 29-31 May 2015. Michael and 15-year-old Latvian-bred Marakov, the current national champion title holders, earned a handsome score of 70.66% to achieve seventh place in the grand prix. The world class field of competitors was headed by the home nation’s Isabell Werth and Don Johnson FRH on 76.30%.
Michael and ‘Marco’ went on to gain a creditable eighth position in the following day’s grand prix freestyle. They posted 74.77%, just behind the USA’s Steffen Peters and new star Legolas 92 on 75%. The freestyle was clinched by Sweden’s Tinne Vilhelmson Silvén and Don Auriello, a 13-year-old son of Don Davidoff, on an outstanding 82.47%.
Britain’s Nikki Crisp also travelled to Aachen with the lovely mare Pasoa, though an unfortunate incident as they entered the arena prevented the talented pair from producing their best form. A section of arena boarding lifted in strong winds resulting in a dramatic spook, and not their best level of performance. They scored 66.32% for 19th place.
In Austria meanwhile, Anna Ross was flying the flag for Great Britain at the Villach, Treffen CDI3/4* at the Glock Horse Performance Centre in Austria, 28-31 May 2015. The relatively new partnership of Anna and Die Callas, a 14-year-old daughter of De Niro, scored 67.40% for fifth place in the CDI3* grand prix. Anna and the athletic mare owned by Jane Sewell, went on to earn a solid 67.39% for third in the CDI3* grand prix special, a class won by Germany’s Matthias Bouten and Ehrengold MJ on 70.35%.
Dubbed ‘Horses and Stars’ the lavish show which is set against the backdrop of the Austrian Alps offers the ultimate in luxury for horses, competitors, guests, and even their dogs! Providing unmatched dining and entertainment, on the bill this year was none other than Katherine Jenkins, Nicole Scherzinger, Mariah Carey and Robbie Williams!
The CDI4* classes were dominated by Glock sponsored Dutch combinations Hans Peter Minderhoud with Glock’s Johnson (grand prix special) and Edward Gal with Glock’s Voice (grand prix freestyle).
Source: media release by British Dressage
