British pony team member Sofia Games will not be competing her number one choice, WS Jackson, at the 2023 European Pony Championships in Le Mans, France.
The Europeans kick off tomorrow, 25 July 2023, with the horse inspection. On Wednesday the first group of riders will compete in the team championship test.
Games was supposed to ride the 12-year old AES x Hanoverian crossbred WS Jackson (by Chiskin Jaguar x His Highness) but he sustained a minor injury right before departure to Le Mans and the time frame was too short for him to be fit for France.
"I am heartbroken that Joey will no longer be able to compete at the European Championships this year," Sofia stated. "He has banged one of his legs, which has resulted in swelling and some lameness. The vet came to confirm he had only knocked himself and that he will be back very soon, but unfortunately there is simply not enough time for him to recover before leaving for the Europeans on Friday (21 July). It is a real disappointment but I am so relieved that he will be perfect again soon ready for the upcoming National Championship."
Games continued, "I am devastated at this news and for the entire team behind Joey and I, this is a horrible situation to be in though I am so grateful we will be back dancing together soon. It’s such a shame that he won’t finish the season how he deserves but I’m really looking forward to being back out with him as soon as I get back."
Games will be riding her direct reserve pony, Steendieks Cadillac, a 12-year old German Riding pony by FS Chambertin x Nurejew.
The 15-year old Sofia Games began her international pony career in 2020 on Mister Snowman. In 2021 she began showing Lily Laughton's former pony Steendieks Cadillac, while in 2022 she focused on Next Black Magic. Since October 2022 she has been focusing more on Cadillac and premiered WS Jackson at CDI level in May 2023. 2024 will be her last year on ponies.
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