2005 CDIO Aachen

History Written in Aachen: The Netherlands Wins Nations' Cup Dressage

Jan Brink of Sweden a Close Second

Second place riding for Sweden was Jan Brink on Bjorsells Briar. The Swedish combination grew to exponential heights in his test starting out very strongly with the trot half passes. In the piaffe and passage he showed harmony, rhythm and relaxation. The canter work was outstanding with a superbly performed zig zag and strong tempi changes. The only mistake in his ride was in the first pirouette where the horse changed behind. Brink's scores froze on the running score board after the canter movements, and stayed frozen through the next ride. It is speculated that with 5 scribes entering scores that if it is done simulateously there is a possibility of a data conflict. The computer tech was seen running from stand to stand during the following ride, and finally the glitch was resolved.

Hubertus Schmidt and Wansuele Suerte, the silver medallists at the 2005 European Championships, finished third in the Grand Prix. They had a clean ride with outstanding flying changes. The piaffe and passage were good, but could have had a bit more pizzaz. The walk was the weakest element in the test. No overtrack, and Wansuele broke into a soft passage. With 73.083% they ranked third ahead of Swiss Sylvia Ikle on Salieri, who were also on a high in Aachen with a super ride.