Boyd Exell Makes History Securing Sixth World Championship Title in Pratoni

Despite the best attempts of his closest rivals, Boyd Exell (AUS) kept a cool head during a soaking final Cones round in Pratoni (ITA) today to win a decisive 6th individual FEI Driving World Championship Four-in-Hand, his unbroken reign intact after his first gold 12 years ago in Lexington (USA).

Exell wasn't going to let his grip on the crown slip in Pratoni, putting in stellar performances across all three days of competition; leading from the very start. With Dressage notoriously Exell's strongest phase, he secured a score of 34.13 challenging the rest of the field to chase him down.

"I love Driving, the score is only the icing on the cake," said Exell of his early lead.

The Marathon phase saw Exell extend his lead even further, moving into the final day of competition six penalties ahead of the closest competitor.

On the final day of competition Exell drove a measured final round which saw him claim victory on a final score of 156.09. 

"I have the pressure of having fantastic horses and you mustn't let them down. That's one of the hardest things – they are 15 years old now and so experienced. The team of people around me, all the helpers, it's about not letting them down too."

Fellow Australian Tor Van Den Berge also competed at the Championship event, making his FEI World Championships Four-In-Hand debut. 

Full results can be found HERE.