Chester Weber (Hippo Foto Team - Dirk Caremans)

Caen, France - The first phase of the 2014 FEI Driving World Championships, held as part of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, came to a conclusion on Friday at the La Prairie Racecourse. The United States’ Chester Weber once again proved why he is considered a master in the dressage, driving into the lead in the afternoon session, and helping the U.S. Team to stand in second place on a score of 88.31heading into the marathon.

Weber (Ocala, Fla.) drove his own and Jane Clark’s KWPN team in a beautiful effort to earn a of score 32.21 from the Ground Jury of Christ Klaus, Andrew Counsell, Anne-Marie Turbe, Joaquin Medina, and Pia Skar. The team demonstrated  impressive trot work throughout the test, highlighted by ground covering extensions, which earned high marks from the judges.

“I was really pleased with the horses; they really gave their all, I couldn’t be happier,” said Weber after his test. “I was really, really pleased with the lead horses. I often see all the mistakes from my position and I didn’t see any mistakes today.”

Weber, who won last year’s Test Event for the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, believes his horses are more than ready to take on the unique challenges of Saturday’s marathon.

“I think there are a couple factors with the racetrack environment and following the other carriages around, but my horses are prepared for that. Also, the footing is different than how it is normally on the grass, but they’re ready.”

Fellow U.S. drivers Lisa Stroud (West Grove, Pa.) and Misdee Wrigley Miller (Lakewood Ranch, Calif.) stand in 21st and 26th places, respectively, after the dressage.

Leading the Team Championship is The Netherlands on a score of 79.40nd Hungary is third on a score of 94.62.