The highly anticipated and revamped Helsinki International Horse Show kicked off its competition program on the international stage, where Finland’s top riders competed in the Intermediate I dressage class. Anna von Wendt and Lord Byron won the class with a score of 69.147.
Von Wendt arrived in high spirits at the stunning new international arena at the Helsinki Exhibition and Convention Center. The equestrian course went well overall. The biggest source of nervousness had been the day before, when he was getting familiar with the arena.
“Ludde was a little curious about the judges’ table, but he behaved surprisingly well. There was nothing out of the ordinary about it. We were able to ride just as we normally do, so everything went well,” says von Wendt, praising his 10-year-old horse, Lord Byron.
The pair made their international debut in Pärnu last year. Von Wendt hopes to compete in the Grand Prix with Lord Byron this season, but when it comes to his competitive goals, he’s taking things at the horse’s pace.
As a member of the Finnish Equestrian Federation’s Schooling Committee, von Wendt says it is important to be able to ride in an arena like this in front of an audience and international judges.
“We have quite a long way to go to get out there in the world, so it’s just incredible to be able to compete in events like this right here at home in Finland.”
In the class with seven competitors, Elisabet Ehrnrooth took second place with her new partner, the 10-year-old Heslegard’s Furst Louis, with a score of 67.794%.
Results, February 26
1) Anna von Wendt – Lord Byron, Björkboda Dressage Association/af 69.147%
2) Elisabet Ehrnrooth – Heslegard’s Furst Louis, Helsinki Riding Club 67.794%
Full results: LINK
