Golden future

Against a backdrop of controversy in the wider dressage world, Britain's next generation bring optimism back to the sport with historic wins

- ANDREA OAKES

GREAT BRITAIN claimed double gold in a thrilling showdown. Pony rider Abigail Gray improved on an individual silver medal to score an emphatic freestyle victory, while Ella-Grace Dovey exceeded expectations to make Britain’s first children-on-horses medal a winning one.

After a close-fought competition which saw both pony and junior teams miss the podium by the narrowest of margins, riders pressed ahead in the individual classes – smashing the top 10 in all three divisions, thanks to Myles Graham’s junior placings.

“I’m so proud of them all,” said chef d’equipe Nina Boex of the youth riders thrust into the spotlight as controversy erupted among Britain’s Olympic dressage community. “Under maybe not the easiest of circumstances, they conducted themselves in an exemplary manner. It was important they came not only for the experience but also for the opportunity, and they proved they’re the next generation.

“Abigail was ready to set down what she could this time, after a taste of things at the Europeans last year, and Myles was strong among hot competition,” added Nina. “Ella’s children-on-horses medal hopefully inspires other riders in that age category.”

GOING FOR GOLD

RIDING seasoned team pony George Clooney BS, Abigail kicked off her campaign by heading the 53-strong field in the team test.