‘He’s the full package’ – British rider steers Irish-bred to be world’s top eventing seven-year-old at Le Lion d’Angers
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Britain’s Tom McEwen and Brookfield Danny De Muze clinched the prestigious seven-year-old World Championship in the Le Lion d’Angers results last week (15-19 October), while the six-year-old class was awarded to Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Tara Van Het Leliehof.
Two-time Olympic gold medallist Tom was in second place after the cross-country with Chloe and John Perry and Alison Swinburn’s Irish Sports Horse by I’m Special De Muze. A clear showjumping round elevated them into first place after a rail cost long-time leaders Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Helios the win – and the Belgian rider a double victory.
“I felt we made a few mistakes on Thursday in the dressage, but he was brilliant yesterday and jumped foot-perfect today. He’s a very modern-day sport horse. He’s got a great gallop and a fantastic jump so for me he’s the full package,” said Tom.
Lara and the Belgian warmblood Tara Van Het Leliehof were second after the dressage in the six-year-old Le Lion d’Angers results. They rose to pole position after producing a clear cross-country and first-phase leaders Julia Krajewski and Ajana fell two fences from home.
The pair added just 0.4 of a time-penalty in the showjumping to triumph. It was Lara’s first victory at Le Lion after almost 20 appearances at these championships.
“It’s incredible – you work so hard for that. I knew the horse was exceptional, but there’s a difference between knowing it and doing it. It’s the judges liking your horse, a bit of luck on the course, and so many things you can’t control. It’s a sweet victory and I think she’s a superstar for the future,” said Lara.
Another competitor to enjoy a successful weekend was Ireland’s Ian Cassells who finished second with Rutland Flamenco in the six-year-old class and third with Noa W in the seven-year-old class.
US rider Hallie Coon and Tykillen Tango rounded out the six-year-old podium, while best of the Brits in this class were Max Warburton and Monbeg Condor, who rose from 18th after dressage to finish fourth.
Le Lion d’Angers results
Seven-year-olds
- Tom McEwen and Brookfield Danny De Muze (GBR)
- Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Helios (BEL)
- Ian Cassells and Noa W (IRL)
Six-year-olds
- Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Tara Van Het Leliehof (BEL)
- Ian Cassells and Rutland Flamenco (IRL)
- Hallie Coon and Tykillen Tango (USA)
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