Germany a force to be reckoned with at this year's Pony European Championships

Friday was definitely Germany's day after they went into the weekend with golds in both the Individual Dressage and Team Show Jumping.

In true Teutonic style, the German Chef d'Equipe was on the receiving end of his team's jubilation and ended up taking an early bath in Mark McGowan's water jump, which he took in extremely good spirits. Much to the delight of the crowds.

This is the first time in almost two decades that the Germans have taken a jumping gold and they were thrilled with the results. The Chef d'Equipe said: "I'm very proud. It's been 19 years since the last gold medal and the team did a very good job. Today I am very proud and we are hoping for a bit of luck for Sunday (Individual Show Jumping Competition)."

In silver medal position, the Irish team were equally jubilant. Particularly as Bertram Allen topped the leaderboard. Chef d'Equipe Ian Fearon was full of praise for his young athletes.
He said: "You can see the talent we have here. We have to work very hard producing these ponies and we have worked with some of the best trainers and coaches to get here. It's an under statement to say I'm proud."

Taking bronze was Team Belgium.

Team GB finished fifth, with great clear rounds from Amy Inglis and Emily Roe. British Showjumping Chairman of Performance Development Clare Whitaker said: "It was a little bit unlucky and things don't always go the way you plan, but we have some great riders for the future within our team and I’d also in particular like to acknowledge both Amy Inglis and and Emily Row who both jumped great second rounds.  We now look ahead to the Individual Final on Sunday with the hope of pulling us back into a medal winning position".

 

The British Pony Squad are sponsored by John Whitaker International Ltd in addition to being strongly supported by the UK Sport lottery funded BEF World Class Programme.

John Whitaker International Ltd was established in 1998 with the aim of finding top quality equestrian clothes and equipment.  Today they lead the field for innovative design and the use of modern fabrics to bring equestrian clothing to the cutting edge of sporting achievement.   John and his wife Clare, have a huge input into product development and selection.  Consequently the John Whitaker range has been tried and tested at the highest levels. The company is investing a significant amount of money into the squad, plus supplying team uniform, casual clothing plus fly rugs, waffle rugs and saddle cloths; all in team colours.

Full results and further information on the Pony European Championships can be found by visiting http://vikingfm.bauerweb.co.uk/FEI-Pony/