First Day of Grand Prix at 2005 FEI European Championships

Ann Kathrin Linsenhoff (GER) and Sterntaler-Unicef

Twenty-eight riders lined up for the first Grand Prix day at the 2005 FEI European Championship in Hagen (GER).

After the first two team riders, the flying Dutch squad takes the lead with 143.75%, closely followed by current title holders Germany in runner up position with 143.5% and Sweden in 3rd place with 138.833%.

Individually, Germany’s Ann Kathrin Linsenhoff on Sterntaler-Unicef is in the lead (74.250%), followed by The Netherland’s Edward Gal on Geldnet Lingh (72.917%) and Laurens van Lieren on Hexagon’s Ollright (70.833%).

“I’m so happy and so moved, I can barely speak,” a very emotional Ann Kathrin declared. “My horse and I were one body today. If only this could be the end of the championship…”

Edward Gal and Laurens van Lieren are both on the Dutch team. The reason behind the decision to have Gal compete on the first day was that his horse, the 12-year old stallion Geldnet Lingh had been ill two weeks ago and it would be better to avoid having him perform three days in a row. Tomorrow, the horse will have a rest and some light exercise in order to prepare for the next stage of the competition.

Despite his young age, 23-year old Laurens van Lieren knows how to compete under stress. He has gathered enough experience at Junior and Young Riders level and is well at ease even at the highest level. Concentration and a strong mind are part of a winner’s profile.

Things are far from finished though given that the stronger riders will be making their much expected entrance tomorrow.