Karen Pavicic led a Canadian sweep of the top two places in the CDI4* Grand Prix at the fifth annual International Omaha, which will be the location for the 2017 World Cup Finals next year. This is the first time that International Omaha is hosting an FEI approved CDI 4* Dressage competition alongside its CSI 3* Jumping competition and nine combinations lined up for the big tour.
The 2016 CDI Omaha is taking place May 5-7 at the CenturyLink Center in Omaha, Nebraska. Pavicic claimed the win with a brilliant ride on her 14-year-old, Oldenburg gelding that she owns with Jayne Essig. She received a score of 67.800 from the five-judge panel of Janet Foy (USA), Gary Rockwell (USA), Christof Umbach (LUX), Ulrike Nivelle (GER) and Cara Witham (CAN).
"I was really pleased with my horse but not so much with myself," said Pavicic who has represented Canada many times internationally including riding on its team at the 2014 World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France. "I went off course which was a costly mistake, but he maintained his composure throughout and was really great. I really think this is a fantastic event. The atmosphere was electric and the venue is outstanding. Omaha is such a friendly, welcoming city and I have no doubt that the World Cup next year is going to be an incredible event!"
Two-time Olympic veteran Jacqueline Brooks completed Canada's sweep of the top two places with a score of 65.120 on D Niro, a 17-year-old, Swedish-bred gelding owned by Mary Brooks and Brookhaven Dressage. Brooks felt that her horse was affected by the large arena and the atmosphere.
"He was really scared when he entered the ring," she said. "We spent all winter competing outdoors in Florida and he was definitely affected here tonight. I think he'll be much better tomorrow night but overall he was honest throughout his test tonight despite his nerves."
Finishing third was Katie Poag of John Island, SC with a score of 64.640 seconds on her own Zonnekoning, a 12-year-old, KWPN stallion.
Photo © Sue Stickle
Related Links
Scores 2016 CDI Omaha
2016 CDI Omaha, Dress Rehearsal for 2017 World Cup Finals
Omaha to Host 2017 World Cup Finals