German team rider Katharina Hemmer has withdrawn her number one ride, Denoix PCH, from competing at the 2026 German Dressage Championships.
The German Nationals in Balve on 4 - 7 June 2026 are the first, mandatory team selection trial for the upcoming World Championships. The CDIO Hagen at the start of July is the second and last trial after which the team will be announced.
Hemmer and the American owned 14-year old Denoix (by Destano x Pik Noir) first rode on the German team at the 2025 European Championships in Crozet, where they won team gold and were fourth in the Special. Hemmer also withdrew Denoix from the CDI Frankfurt in December due to a minor injury, but the pair competed in two CDI's in 2026 so far, in Lier and Hagen, winning three out of four classes with 75.5% + scores.
Hemmer withdrew Denoix today from Balve when he a swollen leg was noticed this morning.
"The horse's health is always our top priority, which is why Katharina immediately cancelled her participation. It's a real shame, as they are both in excellent training," explained national coach Monica Theodorescu. She expects the 14-year-old Oldenburg gelding to be fit again soon.
Photo © Astrid Appels
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