World Cup title defender Debbie McDonald has withdrawn from the 2004 World Cup Finals in Dusseldorf next weekend. Despite their earth shaking performance and victory at the CDI Dortmund
, McDonald decided to scratch for Dusseldorf. Her Hanoverian mare Brentina (by Brentano II x Lungau) had a mild strain after the show and it is in the best interest of the horse not to compete next week.
"This is a very important Olympic year and all preparations of Brentina and Debbie are focused on the Games," trainer Klaus Balkenhol explained. "Brentina and Debbie want to prove that they are a world class combination, who can bring home an Olympic medal. We want to play it afe and are giving Brentina the necessary rest, so that she can be fit for the Selection Trials in California in June."
"I am, of course, very disappointed and would have loved to defend my title at this prestigious championship. However, I am also excited about the Olympic Games and must remain focused on the main goal this year. It is bad timing, but fortunately it is not serious and she will be back in work in just a couple weeks,” said Debbie McDonald.
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