ESNZ chief executive Julian Bowden is confident there will be learnings to carry from Paris through to the worlds in Aachen in two years and on to the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028. “I could not be prouder of our team,” he said. “Now we look forward to our next major championships.”
The athletes, coaching and management team and the ‘pit crew’ of grooms and horse health team had all been great ambassadors for New Zealand. “A special shout out to all of our owners and the massive group of supports who turned up for both the eventing and dressage.”
He felt the very vocal support from home as well as the many who had travelled to Paris from all over the globe, had been particularly appreciated. “The support has been amazing.”
The Chateau of Versailles as an equestrian venue had not failed to deliver in terms of quality of competition surfaces and facilities. “From the horse accommodation with its own cooling system through to the grooms’ village built close to the stables,” said Julian.
“The field of play was next level – from the surfaces provided through to the presentation of the main arena and of course the cross country course. The organisers did a great job and the event ran like clockwork.”
The outcome highlighted just how difficult it was to medal at the Games. “The three per team eventing format really leaves little room for mistakes,” he said. “While a team eighth was not the result we wanted in eventing I am still very proud of the way our team came through and supported each other. There were some amazing performances that we must remember to celebrate.”
Melissa’s New Zealand Olympic Grand Prix record under the sweltering heat was great to see. “All our athletes and horses have come through the competition well which is so important as part of the big picture.”
By Diana Dobson – HP Media Liaison
Photos by Libby Law/ESNZ