The sound of the British national anthem could be heard in the main arena of the Grand Parquet de Fontainebleau on Friday evening, in honour of the British Young Riders who were crowned European Team Champions for the second year in a row. In the Longines FEI Jumping European Championship presented by CWD, Germany added a silver medal to its record, while Denmark won its second bronze medal.
The second round of the team event for young riders was not easy for the horses and riders. Over a technical and fragile course designed by France’s Grégory Bodo, many of them made mistakes, such as the French team members, finishing this championship in 7th spot with a total of 49.01 points. The time allowed was also decisive, as more than twenty riders were penalized for exceeding it.
The British young riders were finally the best and got on the top step of the podium, with Graham Babes, William Fletcher, Amy Inglis and Harry Charles as their team members – on a total of 25.08 points.
“The course was perfect, there could be mistakes everywhere, which was very interesting. All the riders really showed their best riding today. They were able to show coolness and determination to the end,” explained Chef d'Equipe Tony Newbery. “Tonight I’m incredibly happy! It’s awesome to win two years in a row!” he added.
Finally, Newberry also wished to thank the Organizing Committee of these first Longines FEI European Championships bringing together the three Olympic disciplines. “They should have a gold medal! We are welcomed to perfection and it is great to be here this week,” he concluded, eager to celebrate this beautiful medal with his team. The medal was the second of the day for Great Britain, as they also claimed team silver in the junior championship.
Press release from EL Comm / The Longines FEI European Championships for children, juniors and young riders
Picture © PSV Photo