Aussies taking on the World at Dressage Championships for Young Horses

Today marks the start of the FEI/WBFSH World Breeding Dressage Championships for Young Horses 2021 in Verden, Germany.

The Championships continue to contribute to the development and promotion of elite horses for the international competition arena by focusing on the relationship between breeding and sport.

Five combinations will represent Australia in the competition's three divisions: 5-year-olds, 6-year-olds, and 7-year-olds. 

Simone Pearce, a veteran of young horse competitions, will ride three horses during the event. Simone will compete in the 6-year-old division with Diamond First and Dancier Gold, and in the 7-year-old division with Quando Unico. 

“I’m really enthusiastic to see how my young horses perform over the next week. They are three lovely horses with what I believe to be big potential for the big sport in the future and this show is such an exciting step in the beginning of their careers,” explains Simone.

This year, Australia has two combinations competing in the 5-year-old classes: Rebecca Rooke on Pour Andrig de Barroue and Maree Tomkinson on Friday IV.

Despite the fact that all three of our riders share the Australian spirit, they are geographically separated and all live in different countries.

Simone Pearce is based in Germany, while fellow teammate Rebecca Rooke resides ‘next door’ in France, necessitating a 15-hour drive to Verden.

“We safely arrived in Verden after a two day journey. 'Andy' is in fine form and I am looking forward to our first start on Thursday,” said Rebecca.

Maree Tomkinson, hailing from Victoria, Australia, has undertaken the longest journey with her horse to the Championships 

“We are really happy to be back in Germany after so many years and out of COVID lockdown,” shares Maree.

“I am super proud to be riding Diamantina’s daughter and representing Australia again alongside the other wonderful Aussie athletes, and the rest of the world of course."

‘Friday’ is by Furstenball out of Maree’s 2014 World Equestrian Games mount, Diamantina IV.

Brett Davey, EA High Performance Dressage Manager, is supporting the team in Germany as Chef d'Equipe.

“There is a real buzz around the stables this morning with the first competitions today.  

“All of our horses have travelled great and all look on track in their training here. The girls have already shown such a great team spirit with everyone jumping at any chance to help and support each in every possible way,” said Brett.

The EA High Performance Program would like to wish Simone, Rebecca and Maree, their horses and their connections the very best of luck for the competition ahead.

Full results from the competition can be found HERE