As the Grand Prix Special and Grand Prix Kur to Music concluded at the magical edition of Horses and Dreams 2012 CDI Hagen in Germany, the top three riders of both classes were invited to the press conference. The Grand Prix Special finalists Charlotte Dujardin, Anna Kasprzal and Anabel Balkenhol were all ecstatic about their rides.
Here are their reactions at the press conference.
Charlotte on her World Record Score
It was unbelievable – I had such a good ride, I didn't even see the score but then Carl told me and all I could say was “Oh my god!” I knew I had a good ride, but I didn’t expect 88%.
Charlotte on her relationship with Carl:
I wouldn't be able to achieve what I am achieving without him, obviously – he is letting me ride such a wonderful horse. I am definitely one of the luckiest girls in the world!
Charlotte on her plans for Valegro:
We were going to go to Munich, but I think we’ll leave it now, we’ll just work at home and practice the freestyle at home. After all, he’s only 10, so I don't want to run him too much.
He’d be capable of scoring even higher. I am still holding back: I can’t let go completely yet so there’s still margin for improvement. He has power beyond belief, literally you keep pressing and he just gives more and more and more.
Anna Kasprzak on her success with Donnperignon
Only got Donnperignon half a year ago – I didn't expect such a rise so quickly. The quality of the horses competing, the quality of the riders at a show like this pushes all standards up.
Anabel Balkenhol on her CDI Come Back
First international of the year for us – I was a bit tense because I didn’t know how he’d react to the atmosphere, but he did really well. My goal today was to push a bit more, without asking for 150% since it’s his first show and he still needs time to get back to full strength, but I wanted a bit more power today and that's what I got, therefore I am very happy.
Related Link: World Record Score for Dujardin and Valegro in 2012 CDI Hagen Grand Prix Special
Eurodressage Coverage of the 2012 CDI Hagen