Leading German pony rider Katharina Winkelhues confirmed her pre championship form when winning the preliminary dressage competition on the opening day [Wednesday 23rd July 2003] of the Pony European Championships
in Necarne Castle, Irvinestown, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.
Riding Dressman 16 she scored 74.89% to secure the top slot ahead of team mate Patricia Hohn on Konrad 15 who slotted into second place on a score of 73.41%.
Dutch rider Marrigje Van Baalen and Power and Paint placed 3rd on 71.48%
The leading British rider is Lorna Edmonds lying in 6th place with Manitu N on a score of 68.67%.
Irish rider Audrey Hickey on Ronald David scored 58.81% to place 31st just ahead of fellow team member Kathryn Moore and Chestons Promise who scored 56.81% to place 32nd. Melanie Mackey and Cairnearl Blue Falcon are lying in 35th place on a score of 53.85%.
Thursday 24th July 2003 is a rest day in the dressage competition at the pony europeans. The team competition takes place Friday 25th July 2003 and the individual final will take place in the walled garden on Saturday 26th July 2003.
by Paul Nolan
Image copyrighted: Paul van Oers