A statement from British Dressage has confirmed that pathfinders Andrew Gould and Indigro were eliminated on veterinary grounds during their Grand Prix test at the FEI Dressage European Championships today (27 August).

The bell was rung during their test, indicating that there were concerns from the judging panel, before the judge at C informed Andrew of his elimination.

“Indigro warmed up well, but just didn’t feel quite his usual, forward self in the arena today,” said Andrew, who was making his senior championship debut.

“While this is a huge disappointment, Indigro is my top priority and I fully support the judges’ decision.

“I’d like to thank the team vets and the rest of our support team here in Crozet for the care they’ve given him, especially my brilliant groom, Nat Campbell, who dotes on Indi and has looked after him impeccably this week.”  

‘Horse wellbeing is priority’

British Equestrian’s World Class Programme Performance Director Helen Nicholls added: “While this is obviously devastating for Andrew, who is making his senior championship debut here in Crozet, and owners Tatiana and Max Skillman, horse wellbeing is the number one priority for all of us.

“We fully support the ground jury and the role they play in identifying any concerns regarding equine welfare.

“Our team vets will give Indigro a thorough examination to ensure his immediate comfort and work with Andrew’s home team on a more thorough investigation to have him back to full health,” continued Helen.

“I have full confidence that Andrew and Indigro’s time to shine and show their talents on the world stage will come in the future.”

Britain is still in the running

The Grand Prix takes place today and tomorrow and decides the team medals.

The best three scores from teams of four counts towards the final placings, which means Great Britain remains in the competition as a team of three.

The scores of Becky Moody and Jagerbomb, Carl Hester and Fame, and Lottie Fry and Glamourdale — the three duos who won team bronze at the Olympic Games in Paris last year — will all count towards the final total.

The first set of individual European medals will be decided this Friday (29 August) in the Grand Prix Special.

Individual medals for the Freestyle will be decided on Sunday 31 August.