German based Danish Olympian Nathalie zu Sayn-Wittgenstein ended the winter break of her top horse Digby, a 16-year old Danish warmblood by Donnerhall x Sandro, by shipping him to sunny Doha, Qatar, where she captured the Grand Prix trophy at the inaugural Al Shaqab International Equestrian Event.
On Friday evening 29 March 2013, Zu Sayn-Wittgenstein scored 75.43% to top the leader board well ahead of Swedsih Patrik Kittel on the Oatley family's Swedish warmblood Toy Story (by Come Back II). Kittel received 71.83% from the panel of judges. Portugese Gonçalo Carvalho completed the top three aboard Christine Jacoberger's Lusitano stallion Rubi (by ) with a score of 69.979%.
After winning the Grand Prix, which was ridden in the air-conditioned gigantic indoor arena at Al Shaqab, Zu Sayn-Wittgenstein commented that, "Digby had a good winter break but he does hate the cold so it was a great opportunity to bring him here to enjoy the sun and warmth. He made the journey well, is happy, and I was very satisfied with his performance. The arena is amazing and gives you a very cosy feeling so let’s hope all continues well for the Individual Grand Prix Freestyle on Saturday."
The CDI 4* in Doha is an invitation only, all expenses paid event that co-incides with a CSI 5* jumping competition and an endurance event. Action continues for the dressage riders on Saturday evening with the Kur to Music.
Photo © Astrid Appels
Related Links
Scores 2013 CDI Doha
European Riders Travel to Qatar for Invitation Only 2013 CDI Doha