Sönke Rothenberger has withdrawn Cosmo from competing at the 2019 German Dressage Championships in Balve on 14 - 16 June 2019, where World Champions Isabell Werth and Bella Rose are set to make their show come back since the 2018 World Equestrian Games.
After winning the 2019 CDI Hagen, Rothenberger and his 11-year old Dutch warmblood Cosmo (by Van Gogh x Landjonker) were hot favourites for a medal at the German Championships, which is the first mandatory team selection trial out of team for the 2019 European Championships.
Unfortunately Cosmo developed some colic signs in Balve on Thursday 13 June and the team vet recommended them to travel to the local equine clinic as a precaution.
"Of course I'm super sad that I can't compete in Balve, because Cosmo felt super switched on in training this morning," said Rothenberger late last night. "But nothing comes above Cosmo's well being. He's already making a fresh impression again and we hope he stays stable, so that we can quickly return home. Wish us good luck."
Despite Cosmo's withdrawal, Balve remains to be a show-to-watch with the entire German A-squad present and Isabell Werth making her long-awaited come back on her 2018 World Champion Bella Rose. Werth has left her 2019 World Cup Finals winner Weihegold home as the mare is on a short embryo transfer baby break, just like last year.
The Grand Prix begins at 10.30 in Balve
Related Links
Rothenberger and Cosmo in Command of the 2019 CDI Hagen Grand Prix for Special
Devastating Fire at Rothenberger's Gestut Erlenhof
Weihegold Out for 2018 CDI Aachen, Emilio and Bella Rose Step In
Sönke Rothenberger Wins 2018 German Grand Prix Championship
Rothenberger Grabs Kur Gold at 2018 German Dressage Championships
Cosmo Withdrawn from 2018 CDIO Aachen