2002 World Equestrian Games

Grand Prix Test Group One - September 11, 2002

Brilliant Brentina Brings Hope For the U.S.

The United States of America took personal "sportive" revenge at September 11, 2001, by blasting away all competition today in the Chapin center. Two American riders entered the arena and both ranked in the top five, venging the 9/11-jinx. Debbie McDonald scored a phenomenal 74.640% aboard her brilliant Brentina and finished second. Her ride with Perry Thomas' chestnut Hanoverian mare was sensational. Although she labelled her test as "conservative", it made a definite impression on every spectator. Fluent transitions, sharp on the letter, a harmonious conversation between rider and horse. As usual, Brentina thrilled with her half passes and eye catching piaffe-passage transitions.

At the press conference after the test, McDonald was extatic. "I have only dreamt of sitting here," she said. Debbie had felt this good ride coming up. "Yesterday I only rode her for 15 minutes because she felt incredible." Yesterday's gut feeling was a good indicator for today. "When I picked up the trot, I knew she was right with me and she stayed that way the whole test."

Although Chef d'Equipe Jessica Ransehousen attributes the wonderful performance of today to the extraordinary loving bond between Debbie and Brentina, it is more likely that team trainer Klaus Balkenhol made the decisive contribution for the USET's winning improvement. "Klaus has been incredible," McDonald noted. "He's so sensitive, doesn't overwork the horses and has created a great environment to be in." McDonald is certainly pleased that Balkenhol lets her do her own thing for a while, and only then steps in with some additional comments and suggestions.