Swedish Patrik Kittel's number one Grand Prix horse Scandic has been sidelined due to a small injury. The chestnut stallion will be out for the World Cup indoor show season, but is expected to make a come back by the spring in the lead-up to the Olympic Games.
"A small strain has put Scandic out of action for the rest of the World Cup. Although Scandic is showing no signs of lameness, I would prefer to stay on the safe side," Kittel explained.
After a check up with Scandic's owner and veterinarian Jan Greve, it was decided to give Scandic a short break. The left hind leg is strained and needs rest.
"Scandic's health and happiness always come first and that is the only thing that counts," Kittel told Eurodressage exclusively. "He wil be walked for some weeks and then slowly built up again, but will be in full training for the outdoor shows."
Kittel, who won kur bronze at the 2011 European Championships in Rotterdam, aims to be back in the show ring for the CDI Lingen and CDI Munich, which are check-marked on his calendar as preparation shows for the 2012 Olympic Games.
For the 35-year old Patrik missing out on the World Cup Finals with his top horse Scandic is a set-back, but the London Games are his main priority this year. "Of course it's hard, but better now then later as the Olympics is my top goal," Kittel added.
Patrik will continue to compete the Oatley family's Swedish warmblood Toy Story (by Come Back II) for the remainer of the World Cup season.
"Thankfully Carol and Andrew Oatley gave me the ride on Toy Story this year, who now will do Gothenburg and the World Cup Final," Patrik told Eurodressage. "Also I just had the ride of my life on Donna Unique today. That horse is truly amazing, which makes it a bit easier."
Text & Photo © Astrid Appels/Eurodressage
Related Links
Kohl Family Acquires Donna Unique for Patrik Kittel
Kittel and Scandic win Kur Bronze at 2011 European Championships
Patrik Kittel to Miss 2011 Swedish Dressage Championships
Patrik Kittel Looking Forward to 2011 with New Horses and Website
Patrik Kittel Hitting the Big League with Scandic
