Monday December 9, 2002

Surprising Rankings at CDI-W Maastricht (NED)

Gestion Salinero Heir to Bonfire's Throne?

Every year, a new heir to Bonfire's throne is appointed by Van Grunsven herself and the critics. First, it seemed to have been Gestion Idool, then the talented Gestion Joker appeared on the scene but the weight of the "AVG" crown and scepter were to heavy for him to bear. Taking a closer look on Van Grunsven's 2002 achievements, it now seems that Gestion Salinero is the new dauphin in Anky van Grunsven's realm.

Formerly owned by Coastriders, the epitheton ornans of American Tess Guilder, the liver chestnut gelding Salinero is now property of Van Grunsven herself thanks to a trade with show horse Bertolucci. Salinero, a Hanoverian gelding by Salieri has all the potential to be a top scorer but lacks the routine. Adrenaline in the Grand Prix could not be transformed in dressage movements, and the score dropped to 68.40%. In the Grand Prix freestyle, however, the duo were N'Sync and calmed by the music, Salinero rose to the expectancies of judges, rider and audience. With 77.49%, the claimed victory and valuable points for the World Cup Standing - Western League.