Bethany Rose Horobin sadly had to withdraw from competing on the British team at the 2013 European Pony Championships in Arezzo, Italy, on 24 - 28 July 2013. During British pre-Euro training camp at the Pidgley's Kilbees Farm in Windsor, her pony Gigolo became unfit.
Whilst at team training at the Unicorn Centre, Gigolo was found to have a minor injury and the veterinary advice is not to make the long journey to Italy.
Chief Pony Selector Jenny Ward commented; “It’s always a blow to have to make changes at such a late stage but the pony’s welfare is at the heart of our decision. While I’m certain Bethany-Rose is disappointed, she has a whole career ahead of her and potentially two more years of pony competition with Gigolo so we have to think of the future. Rebecca will bring much to the team and we’re all looking forward to heading to Italy to perform to our best.”
The Horobin family acquired the now 15-year old German Riding pony gelding Gigolo (by Going East) in December 2010. The pair was listed as reserve for the 2012 British Pony team, but this year the cute duo was able to get nominated on the team after a successful show season with good scores at the CDIO Saumur, CDI Compiegne and CDI Addington.
The British pony riders gathered at Kilbees Farm on Tuesday 16 July for a few pre-European training days as a team. Due to Gigolo's withdrawal, first reserve pair Rebecca Bell and Valido's Sunshine have filled in the vacant spot, making Ruth Hole and Bernwode Brokat the new alternates.
Photo © Astrid Appels
Related Links
British Team Announced for 2013 European Pony Championships
Eurodressage Coverage of the 2013 European Pony Championships