Press Conference with Medalists
(From Steph)
The OC just held a press conference with the three medalists -
Miguel Vila Ubach,
Virginie Atger,
Elodie Le Labourier
some excerpts:
Gold Medalist Miguel: when asked to tell a little about himself and Endurance, Miguel said "I began riding at age 7, my father encouraged me. In 1999 I won the European Championship, but never thought I could repeat a ride like that. I am the trainer and rider of the horse, the owner purchased him in Hungary 2 years ago and we began Endurance Training. (the horse Hungares is Shagya Arabian). He won two important rides this year, and I knew he was good. I 'lost my mind' on the last loop and we flew- and we went very fast over bad footing - he was very strong on the last loop and I thought we had a chance to win. We were around 14th place mid ride. I was riding with Juima but backed off the pace because I thought it was too fast, and he took longer to recover at the vet check, so we slowed down a little. On the last loop we found the French riders, and I knew that with them he could be in good placing!
When asked to comment on the course, on the difficulty of the ride Miguel said:"For me the weather was most difficult because I never train when it is raining!"
Silver Medalist Virginie Atger: My horse is a half Arabian, 8 years old. The French team was good all day, and we rode together - and moved up gradually. I think Elodie and I should tie because we rode together and came in together. I didn't really think about a Medal, but the French team had a good atmosphere. For me the most difficult part of the day was the mud."
Elodie said she rides a 16 year old Arabian, and she will retire him after this ride - he has done his best, he deserves to retire.
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Congratulations!
Steph
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