Las Vegas, NV—As some predicted long before Thursday’s qualifying Grand Prix, the Dutch made a fantastic showing during the first leg of the 2005 FEI World Cup Dressage Final, April 21, proving their powerhouse precision is not to be underestimated. Edward Gal finished first on Geldnet Lingh with a total of 78.625. Ironically Gal’s score surpassed that of his coach and compatriot Anky Van Grunsven, whose ride on Keltec Salinero earned an even score of 78.

“I’ve never ridden here in America so it’s a real surprise that there are so many people and they are so enthusiastic,” Gal said after his first-ranked ride. “When I started riding from the beginning it felt really good. [Geldnet Lingh] did everything that I wanted him to do and even in the pirouettes I heard the crowd go ‘Oh Wow!’”

“I think it’s the most impolite thing he could do!” joked Van Grunsven in reference to her student. “He asks for help, so I help… and the next thing, he beats me. No, I’m very proud.”

The wildly popular Debbie McDonald and Brentina were the top-placing American team of the day with a third place finish. Following a performance befitting of their trademark style – elegance meets enthusiasm – the pair brought a deafening crowd to its feet. Having claimed the prized position in the 2003 FEI World Cup Dressage Final, the confident team seemed to be reminding everyone that they are still very much in the running. In large measure, the judges seemed to agree with the standing ovation, rewarding McDonald and Brentina for their clean ride, topped off by energetic extended trots and spring-loaded passages. Marks of 7, 8 and 9 consistently dotted the scoreboard throughout their performance in Las Vegas’ Thomas and Mack Arena.

“This is so exciting to see this in our country,” McDonald said. “It’s long overdue and it only proves that this sport can grow just as much as it can in Europe if we’re given a chance.”

The big news of the afternoon: All four American riders gave solid performances worthy of advancement. Robert Dover and FBW Kennedy finished fourth with 75.625, Leslie Morse and Kingston finished seventh with 72.792, and Guenter Seidel and Aragon tied for eleventh with a 71.125. Their scores guarantee each of them a spot in the final Freestyle on Saturday, where the top 12 riders will face off again, and the slate will be wiped clean. Only the scores from that final competition will determine who goes home with the world title.

Prior to the Grand Prix competition, Germany’s Isabell Werth announced that she and team veterinarian, Dr. Nolting, decided to withdraw Anthony FRH after he did not pass the first veterinary jog.

To follow the latest in 2005 FEI World Cup Finals news, log on to www.usef.org. To see broadcast highlights of the Dressage Final, tune into Outdoor Life Network on Monday, June 6 at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
~~~For more information, please contact Sarah Lane, Public Relations Manager at (859) 225-6974 or via e-mail at [email protected]. USEF press releases are available on our web site – www.usef.org.