2002 Dressage at Devon

Killer Competition in Spicy Intermediaire I at 2002 Dressage at Devon

Most exciting class at 2002 Dressage at Devon so far was the CDI Intermediaire I in which a killing competition between 6 riders arose. It took a deep breath and a cushion for your derriere to sit out the whole class which took from 8 AM in the morning to 3.30 PM in the afternoon, but it was really worth to stay the whole stretch of time. Provisionally in the lead in the morning session were Lisette Milner and her muscled chestnut Eminence. The pair scored 66.833% and were comfortably set on first position until the afternoon session started.

That session was filled with top combinations that beat each other's scores ride after ride. The high tech score board flashed up climbing 60% scores and provisionally listed 5 tied leaders, which was unprecedented for Dressage at Devon. Yet, after the scores had been verified by the performance scoring team, which consisted in the ambitious Sandy Rokosz, the delightful Pat Bruno and cheerful Halina Passaro, the victory went to Jan Brons and Josien

Brons and his dark bay star Josien received 67.833% from the panel of judges and tied with Devon's bosom friend of the year, George Williams. However, Brons' collectives were higher than Williams's and the trophy for the class went to Brons. Coached in Devon by Robert Dover, Brons presented an electric and sensitive horse for the Intermediaire I. Josien showed divine traversal movements and wonderfully jumped pirouettes.

Williams benefitted from the remnants of his yesterday Grand Prix victory because Marnix was generously scored 67.833%. The bay gelding was engaged throughout the test but could have shown a little more self carriage in the traversal movements and was not entirely light and steady on the bit. Nevertheless, Marnix showed suppleness in the upper level movements and just needs more confirmation at this FEI level.

Canadian Jacqueline Brooks rightfully claimed a spot in the top three with 67.667%. Aboard the flamboyant Finnegan, Brooks rode with great conviction through her test, so that the pair gave a solid, impressive performance which established her on a safe spot amongst North America's top PSG/Inter I combinations. Kimberly Deaton Iwen and Grande Derneberg also ranked first for a while, but got later referred to fourth position with their 67.167% mark.

The Intermediaire I at 2002 Dressage at Devon stood proof for the upward mobility dressage on this continent is in. With 9 riders scoring above 65% and 23 above 60%, there is no reason to complain.

by Astrid Appels

Related Links
Scores of the CDI Intermediaire I
Standing Ovation For Devon's Newest Favorite, George Williams