2004 World Championships for Young Dressage Horses

A Sad Day for Engelbart and Rosario

July 12, 2004

"Unfortunately we have to eliminate this horse," Jennie Loriston-Clarke announced during Anja Engelbart and Rosario's Finals' ride on Sunday. "The horse has bitten his tongue and is bleeding from the mouth," judge Loriston-Clarke added. "Rosario is a strong, powerful horse. This is a sad day."

Engelbart had a difficult time suppressing her disappointment and utter sadness after her disqualification. Rosario was considered to be a medal hopeful in the 5-year old division at the 2004 World Championships and showed his potential for winning one in the first round.

Rosario, a black Oldenburg stallion by Rubinstein x Castro, finished third in the first round with a wonderful 9.04 score. Rosario gave a confident and confirmed impression during his qualifier ride. The horses trotted with much rhythm and power from behind (score 9.2), while staying nicely uphill only the bit. In the canter, Rosario moved with much engagement and was ground covering (9.0). In the walk, he excelled by showing great over track (9.0). For submission and overall impression, Rosario scored also 9.0 marks.

Engelbart, who is the chief dressage rider at Paul Schockemohle's stallion station in Muhlen, had all the aces in her hand for a top three place in the Finals. She started her trot tour in the Finals on Sunday with much power and cadence. Rosario was nicely on the bit and very uphill. If he had continued his test in that frame, the bronze medal would have been a fact for him. Hopefully, Engelbart will have the spirit and perseverance to return next year with Rosario in the 6-year old division.

Text and photo copyrighted Astrid Appels/Eurodressage - No reproduction allowed!

Back One Page / Index / Next Page of the Report