Rio Olympian Julie Brougham and Vom Feinsten have placed third in the FEI Grand Prix CDI-W at the Australian Dressage Championships this evening.

The Manawatu combination scored 68.74% after a tough draw that saw them third to go. “I am very pleased with him,” Brougham said of her fiery chestnut import. “It is hard going from number three but he still came through for me.”

Vom Feinsten’s canter work was a particular highlight for Brougham. “I think he has the best quality canter of all the horses in the field . . . it’s just not difficult for him. We still have some improving to do in the piaffe passage but we know we can do that. He is strong in every other area, so we are pretty comfortable with that.”

She had been hopeful for a 70% mark. Judges Francis Verbeek (NED) and Mary Seefried (AUS) had them very close to that 70% mark, and actually had them at the front of the field.

The class was won by Judith Dierks aboard Diamond Star who scored 69.3% with Brett Parbery and DP Weltmieser in second on 69.06%.

“Both of them did very solid tests,” said Brougham, who paid tribute to her “amazing” support team of husband David and coach Andrea Raves.

Taranaki’s Abbie Deken and KH Ambrose scored 64.4% in their first offshore experience together. Coach Vanessa Way was very pleased with their efforts in a very strong class, and said it was all part of growing, learning and being braver in big atmospheres.

“There is a lot more to come from these two,” said Way. “Abbie rode a little conservatively because she wanted to be safe, and overall it was very positive. It is all part of the sport.

“This is a horse she has produced herself through to Grand Prix and that is a very strong class.”
Way praised KH Ambrose’s ones and changes, and noted some very nice half passes and trot.

“He has travelled very well but is just a little flat and Abbie isn’t used to him being like that. That is horses – it is a hard game and telling there are just 21 in the field from all of Australia and New Zealand.”

Tomorrow both Brougham and Deken will compete in the freestyle to music.

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By Diana Dobson – HP Media Liaison