It was an emotional finale to the Olympia leg of the Reem Acra FEI Wold Cup Series when Charlotte Dujardin had an early Christmas gift in the shape of a new World Record score of 93.975% and victory with a test which warranted 32 tens from the judges. The emotions continued when Laura Tomlinson then retired her partner of nine years, Mistral Hojris, from competition in front of a capacity crowd.
Charlotte said; “I came here wanting the World Record but thinking it and doing it is something else. It’s a great feeling to have all three – it’s the best Christmas present! To do it on home soil in front of all his supporters makes it even more special. I have to say a huge thanks to Carl for all his days of screaming at me! Plus the team at home – I just couldn’t do it without them. I'm so greatful to Carl and Roly for letting me ride this amazing horse! I thought I had the ride of my life at the Europeans and tonight I wanted to match that but without the blips. Coming out of my final pirouette I had a smile to myself and I knew I was safe. What a test!”
Edward Gal was second on the ever-improving Glock’s Undercover with 87.425% and he wasn’t sour in losing his World Record to the British duo. “I love Charlotte, I love Valegro and it’s good for the sport. I just have to practice more now to catch them. Last year I scored 74% here, this year 87%, maybe next year will be 96%! The horse is getting so much better, it’s all falling into place and after two years together, he’s feeling like ‘my’ horse.”
Third went to rising star Danielle Heijkoop and Kingsley Siro with 80.425% - certainly a combination for the future.
Michael Eilberg was fourth but again divided the judges with the Deverill’s Half Moon Delphi with 78.7%.
Full report to follow.
Full scores – click here.
Individual judges’marks – click here.