The first day of the FEI European and Open Para-Equestrian Dressage Championships at the Epona Riding Centre in Kristiansand, Norway on Friday, August 21, went especially well for three British and two German riders placing the Brits in the lead.

Despite the heavy rain on the previous day, the dressage arena remained in excellent condition. “It is great footing here, which is impressive considering how much it rained yesterday,” said the first winner of the championships, Angelika Trabert (GER). The rider, who was born without legs and with only three fingers on her right hand, was very satisfied with her horse. “At the Paralympics in Hong Kong, Londria was very nervous, so I’m pleased with how she went today. She was very calm and relaxed, but she didn’t like one corner of the arena where people walked on the road behind. Unfortunately the first extended trot went towards that corner. But she paid attention and kept focused on me. Which is important because if she gets distracted she doesn’t notice my aids,” she explained.

Not many para-equestrian dressage events are held without the British National Anthem being played, and this championship was no exception.

“Much of the British success is the result of good development programs and funding meant at young, talented riders,” explained Sophie Wells, Grade IV winner. At only 19, she is establishing herself amongst the world’s best riders and naturally she is hoping for another victory, but, “One can control neither the horse nor the judges 100%,” she emphasized.

The one American rider, Mary Jordan, riding Bantu, finished in 12th with a total score of 62.571%, which gave her the qualifying score she was seeking in order to participate in the selection trials of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

To read Mary's blog, click here.

Results for August 21
Grade Ia - Sophie Christiansen (GBR) Lambrusco III 72,118%
Grade Ib - Lee Pearson (GBR) Gentleman 73,765%
Grade II – Angelica Trabert (GER) Londria 70,476%
Grade III – Hannelore Brenner (GER) Women of the World 73,538%
Grade IV – Sophie Wells (GBR) - Pinocchio 71,714%

Full results and more information is available online at http://www.paraem2009.no/publisher/publisher.asp?id=88.