Exell Takes Early Lead at Aachen

Competition ramped up at the CHIO, World Equestrian Festival in Aachen today, with World Driving Champion Boyd Exell of Australia taking an early lead after the Dressage phase today.

Exell, the 2010 CHIO winner, was in good form today finishing on 35.97penalty points ahead of USA’s Chester Weber (37.25) and Netherland’s Ijsbrand Chardon (37.76).

More than 32, 500 spectators braved the cold and damp conditions to watch the best in action, with more than 25 nations competing across the week in Driving, Dressage, Jumping, Eventing and Vaulting.

Exell certainly has the support of the Aussies behind him, with a strong Australian contingent in attendance at CHIO to take part in one of the most prestigious Equestrian competitions in the world.

Edwina Alexander was undoubtedly a crowd favourite in the Jumping events today – while there was no denying the home crowd’s support for the German riders, Alexander’s reputation throughout Europe made her one to watch today.

The early morning class saw Alexander and Ciske Van Overis have two clear rounds to finish fifith overall, with the afternoon class seeing her and

Dressage got underway today with Australia represented by Mary Hanna and Hayley Beresford.

For Beresford, it has been an emotional few weeks leading into CHIO after her Olympic team horse, Relampago do Retiro, had to be euthanized as a result of an accident whilst travelling home in the float.  While it was a difficult decision as to whether to compete this week, today she rode her Prix St George horse, Belissimo, where she finished 15^th with 64.211%.

The stadium filled during the evening for the Grand Prix CDI, with Mary Hanna and Umbro finishing in 15^th place with 60.936%.

Tomorrow will see Mary Hanna, Lyndal Oately and Edwina Alexander all compete once again, as well as the horse inspectation for Australia's five Eventers - Clayton Fredericks, Lucinda Fredericks, Sam Griffiths, Paul Tapner and Chris Burton.

Quick Links

• For all the live results, streaming and highlights visit the official CHIO website.

 

Source: Equestrian Australia, photo courtesy of FEI