The last weekend in April we had the honor of competing in Saumur, France with a distinguished group of horses and riders from Spain and other countries. Grandioso is currently "pre-selected" for Olympic training, and this was the first show for the group outside of Spain this year. Although the weather was dire, the competition was intense--with a number of former Olympic and team horses re-establishing their dominance, and a top group of new pairs challenging the establishment. From the best horses, the rides were breathtaking, and the range of quality in the up and coming pairs was exciting for all who enjoy the sport. Spain had a particularly strong showing, topping all four of the Big Tour classes over the leading riders from the Netherlands.
Daniel Martin Dockx and Grandioso were in the ribbons in both the Grand Prix and the Grand Prix Special, with scores of 68.2 and 67.6, preserving their international Grand Prix average as they finish this first year of competition at the Grand Prix level. This is the second competition outside of Spain for the pair, and only their fifth time down the centerline at an international show since starting to work together last March.[nbsp]
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They travel next to Fritzens in June.