02 Jul Katharina Hemmer and Denoix PCH Claim Opening CDI4* Grand Prix at the Covalliero Dressage Days
(Hagen a.T.W.) The Covalliero Dressage Days got off to a spectacular sporting start at Hof Kasselmann with the “Let’s Get Hooved” CDI4* Grand Prix. Despite challenging weather conditions throughout parts of the day, 21 combinations produced dressage of the highest standard.
Victory went to Katharina Hemmer and Denoix PCH, who once again demonstrated their outstanding form. The pair had already enjoyed a highly successful outing at Horses & Dreams in April, winning the Grand Prix before finishing second in the Freestyle. Their planned appearance at the German Championships in Balve was then cut short after Denoix sustained an injury. Back in the arena, the 14-year-old Destano gelding looked every bit the championship contender, earning 77.022 percent from the judges and delivering a convincing statement ahead of a possible selection for the FEI World Championships Aachen 2026.
“I’m really happy with how well he performed today,” said Hemmer after the test. “His last competition was here in Hagen back in April, so after that break it was wonderful to see him come back and deliver such a strong test. He obviously feels very comfortable here.”
One of the biggest highlights for Hemmer was her horse’s composure despite the difficult conditions. “For me, the biggest highlight was how relaxed he stayed when the rain became really heavy. I know those conditions aren’t really his favourite, but he stayed completely with me and remained focused throughout the test. That meant the most to me today.”
Despite the extended competition break, Hemmer never doubted her long-time partner.”I never really had any doubts. By now I know that if he’s physically able to do it, he’ll give everything for me. I trust him completely.” Hemmer and Denoix PCH will return to the arena on Saturday for the CDI4* Grand Prix Special.
Second place went to Isabell Werth and Viva Gold OLD. At one stage the pair looked set to challenge for victory, with the scores trending towards 78 per cent. However, a misunderstanding in the zig-zag half-passes and mistakes in the one-tempi changes proved costly. Third place went to Norway’s championship combination Isabel Freese and Total Hope OLD on 74.783%.
Dressage and Para Dressage athletes from 31 nations will continue competing at Hof Kasselmann through Sunday. One of the highlights of the weekend will be Friday afternoon’s FEI Dressage Nations Cup™, presented by the Meggle Group GmbH, with teams from seven nations contesting the prestigious team title.
Admission is free throughout the event. Visitors looking for an enhanced experience can choose from a range of hospitality options, including Sky Bar Tickets, Golden Tickets, and exclusive VIP boxes. All competitions are streamed live and on demand via ClipMyHorse.TV. In addition to the sporting programme, the Oldenburg Horse Marketing GmbH Elite Foal Auction will take place on Friday evening following the FEI Dressage Nations Cup.
.
Photo: Katharina Hemmer und Denoix PCH © Stefan Lafrentz