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Friday, December 28, 2007

World Cup Qualifier in Mechelen (BEL) Catherine Haddad (USA) and Maximus JSS Finish Sixth

Dutch riders dominated the World Cup Qualifier at Belgium’s traditional Christmas show in Mechelen, December 26-27.  Generous points from the Japanese judge Furuoka pushed Anky Van Grunsven (NED) into first place in the Grand Prix Freestyle with Painted Black (78.6%) although not all of the jury agreed on the winner.  Followed closely by her teammate Imke Shellekens-Bartels (NED) with Sunrise (77.9%), three of the five judges would have given the decision to the 13 year old mare who was runner up to Isabell Werth in Las Vegas at the 2007 Final.  Landing in third place (74.1%), Laurens Van Lieren (NED) rose to the occasion with a super comeback after a difficult ride in the Grand Prix.   

Catherine Haddad (USA) placed 6th with Maximus JSS (71.5%), earning valuable points toward her Western European League ranking.  Haddad, now ranked 8th in the League, commented on the show at Mechelen: 

“I’m always happy to ride at show that is close to home, well-organized, with great stabling and excellent footing.  But the Mechelen show is extra special because it is a Christmas Festival combined with top notch World Cup dressage and show jumping.   The excitement among the spectators reminds me of those last few minutes before the gifts are opened on Christmas Eve!  Mechelen is more than a show.  It is an experience.”

Results from DressageDirect.com

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