last updated on July 01, 2009 15:36

British Dressage today selected the Para Equestrian dressage riders to represent GB at the European Championships 2009 to take place in Kristiansand, Norway 20 – 24 August 2009.

They are:
• Sophie Christiansen
Competing in Grade 1a riding the Berkeley Group’s Rivaldo of Berkeley
• Emma Sheardown
Competing in Grade 1a riding her own Purdy’s Dream
• Lee Pearson
Competing in Grade 1b riding his own Gentleman
• Jo Pitt
Competing in Grade II riding Hazel Pitt’s Estralita
• Simon Laurens
Competing in Grade III riding his own Ocean Diamond
• Sophie Wells
Competing in Grade IV riding Dr Jacqueline Walker’s Pinocchio

Commenting on their selection the athletes said:

Sophie Christiansen
“I’m thrilled to have been selected! I’ve only had the ride on Robin (Rivaldo of Berkeley) since the middle of May. He came to my yard, South Bucks RDA, when his previous rider Nic Tustain retired and I’ve been riding him ever since. He’s such a sweet chap with a lovely temperament and has a stunning walk.”

Emma Sheardown
“I’m absolutely delighted to be on the team! My horse has been great. He’s such a good boy then he lights up in the competition arena. He loves the big occasion and really comes together! Next week I’m going to Michel Assouline’s for a couple of days’ training before Hartpury which should be a great preparation for the Europeans.”

Lee Pearson
“I’m obviously really pleased to be selected, I’m a bit of an old hat at this but I still love the chance to get out there and represent my country. I’m really looking forward to it.”

Jo Pitt
“I’m delighted to be chosen with Estralita as he is only seven years old. He’s been wonderful recently, scoring 71% on average. I’m really looking forward to taking him to a big competition and letting everyone see just how good he is.”

Simon Laurens
“I’m over the moon to be selected; I’ve had a lot of bad luck in my personal life since the games so this is a real boost. Ocean Diamond is absolutely flying and it’s great to get some good news and get back on track. Henriette Andersen and Ulrik Molgaard have been fantastic and helped out in all manner of ways; their support has enabled me to keep competing and I owe them a huge debt.”

Sophie Wells
“I’m still in shock; it just hasn’t sunk in yet! I tried so hard not to get my hopes up after last year when we were reserve for Hong Kong so wasn’t expecting it at all. Hopefully I can prove to the selectors they’ve made the right decision. I’ve only had Pinocchio since January so it’s still quite a new partnership but he’s improving all the time. “

David Hunter, World Class Performance Manager for Para Equestrian Dressage comments:
“We’re taking a team which is a good mix of youth and experience; Sophie and Emma perform at the top level for the first time while the other four members have been there and seen it all. We’re very lucky to have representation of riders across all grades and each one has a good chance of doing well. There’s no room for complacency but I feel we have a well balanced squad and an experienced and able team of grooms, trainers and support staff.”

Reserve riders are Felicity Coulthard riding Roffelaar and Deborah Criddle riding Pavaroti.