Luhmuhlen offers last chance for Aussie Rio hopefuls

Olympians, World Equestrian Games riders and Rio hopefuls will descend on Luhmuhlen (GER) from 16-19 June for the final CCI4* on the 2016 Eventing calendar prior to the Rio Games. 

The event represents an important opportunity for Australia's UK based Eventing hopefuls seeking selection to Australia's four member team for Rio. 

Seven-time Olympian Andrew Hoy is among the Australian contingent starting in the CCI4* in which he will ride his London 2012 Olympic Games horse Rutherglen. Prior to London this combination finished sixth at this event and Hoy will be looking for another strong result this weekend. Hoy will also start Cheekly Calimbo in the CIC3*.  

2014 FEI World Equestrian Games rider Bill Levett is another rider eying a place on Australia's Rio team. Levett is aiming to make his Olympic Games debut at age 53 and has two horses chasing success this weekend - Alexander NJ and Improvise. 

Emma Dougall has entered Belcam Bear, a horse which Emma brought with her to the UK from Australia in 2013 - this combination has twice stepped out for Australia at Nations Cup events but will take on a CCI4* for the first time. 

Luhmuhlem CCI4* begins Wednesday with the horse inspection with Dressage to commence Thursday. 

Australia has nominated the following combinations in the CCI4*

Emma Dougall & Belcam Bear                 

Andrew Hoy & Rutherglen                 

Bill Levett & Alexander NJ              

Bill Levett & Improvise                     

Two Aussie combinations will also start in the CIC3*  

Andrew Hoy & Cheeky Calimbo           

Kevin McNab & Step Forward             

Event information can be sourced at www.tgl.luhmuehlen.de