Monday July 4, 2005

Damon Hill and Florencio Win 2005 World Championships in Verden

No Redemption for Donegal and Royal Prince in the Consolation Finals

Two American horses had to try to redeem themselves in the consolation finals, by placing in the top three to gain a berth in the finals on Sunday. Unfortunately, neither Donegal, nor Royal Prince, were able to rise to the occasion.

With the Davignport x Grundstein offspring Donegal, Hokan Thorn scored 7,28 in the 5-year old Consolation Finals and placed 16th. The judges liked the clear difference Donegal showed between the collected and medium trot, but wanted to see more engagement from behind. The walk showed a very clear 4-beat rhythm, the canter a clear 3-beat but self carriage failed. The general lack of active engagement and self carriage was the reason that Donegal's score did not go higher than 7.28.

In the 6-year old Consolation Finals, Susanne Hassler and Royal Prince got the chance to correct the mistakes they made in the canter work in the qualifier. Their score went up with almost one full point, but it was enough to get into the finals. Hassler started out with a lovely trot tour in which Royal Prince (Rohdiamant x Prince Thatch xx) looked more engaged and uphill than ever. Unfortunately, the rein back was again a problem and there was a hiccup in one flying change. Nevertheless, the highlight of the test was Royal Prince's walk which was active and ground covering. Hassler ranked 9th with 7,52 in the consolation finals.

Even though Verden has been a disappointing trip performance-wise, Hassler has learnt much from her latest trip to Europe. “It is another lifetime experience for me and one that is sure to benefit my partnership with Royal Prince and our further development.  I am so deeply grateful to Jane MacElree for supporting us and allowing us this experience.”