Pete hits new peaks

Charlotte Dujardin and Carl Hester do battle for the grand prix spoils, while a newcomer to the level shows promise

- MARTHA TERRY

Wellington International Festival of Dressage, Hants

CHARLOTTE DUJARDIN proved her competitive flame burns as fiercely as ever as she continues her comeback after a brief baby break. Her 2022 World Championship ride Imhotep showed he’s still in the ascendancy as he landed both the grand prix and the special with personal bests.

Charlotte and Carl Hester (Fame) battled it out for the top spots in both classes, with Imhotep taking the grand prix on 80.2%, then the special on 80.87%.

“I really wanted an 80%, and I knew he was good enough, but he’s been just a bit behind, on 77 or 78%,” said Charlotte, having scored 77.26% to win at Windsor, her first show since giving birth to Isabella. “I’ve been working hard since Windsor, when I was three weeks back in the saddle and feeling happy with myself, if a bit crazy doing it. I enjoyed it, but I thought, ‘I have all these things I want to work on to get an 80,’ and I’ve finally done it.”

They set themselves up beautifully for a smashing result, scoring a flurry of nines in the early part of the test, and Charlotte mused that maybe the enforced six weeks off had done Imhotep good.

“He was only nine and so inexperienced last year, but it was good to give him a break. He was ticked over and kept fit, but not worked hard. Since I’ve picked him up, he’s been great, but I did ride him throughout my pregnancy. They all need a break and it’s paid off.”

Carl and Fame’s partnership continued to improve at their sixth show together, despite being beaten for the first time, posting 76.76% in the grand prix then 77.6% in the special.