Michael Jung and fischerRocana FST. Photo by Julia Rau.
Michael Jung and fischerRocana FST didn’t miss a beat in yesterday’s German Masters Indoor Derby at Stuttgart, easily taking home their second win in a row against a tough field of competitors and his seventh overall victory at this competition.
The duo scored 66.81 to win handily over Mark Todd and NZB Land Vision, who stopped the clock at 69.51. Michael and his World Equestrian Games individual silver medalist torched the course, which was predictably twisty and demanded accuracy over solid cross country obstacles and show jumping fences.
Watching Michael’s ride, he keeps his mare well in hand throughout the course, allowing her to come forward to the distances and smoothly collecting her back for a tight turn. The ride was smooth and efficient, as you can see in the video below:
Jonelle Price and Classic Moet, who finished 4th individually at WEG, turned in a solid run for third place with a time of 70.12. Other notable names such as Sandra Auffarth, Laura Collett and Tim Price also competed in the indoor derby, with Tim being the highest placed of the bunch in fourth place on a time of 70.76.
Two pairs were eliminated: Sven Lux fell from Chica B and was immediately up on his feet, while Stuart Fitzgerald missed a jump with Dream On Doni. Two combinations retired on course. In all, 17 of the 21 starters completed the course.
As another indoor derby wraps up, much discussion has been taking place on social media regarding the safety of this type of competition and whether or not it presents a good representation of eventing. The FEI has made several recommendations regarding the regulation of indoor competitions since The Royal.
What do you think about indoor derbies, EN? Is this type of competition a good way to spread awareness about eventing? Or do you think the risks outweigh any benefits? Should changes like what the FEI has suggested be made to boost safety at these competitions? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
