Annabella Pidgley Victorious at Herning CDI3*

Annabella Pidgley dazzled at Herning CDI3* (5 – 9 March) as she claimed the Grand Prix Special victory at the Danish Warmblood Stallion Show fixture.

2024 Under 25 European Champion Annabella Pidgley showcased her strong partnership with the 13-year-old Vitalis-sired gelding Vamos Amigos, producing two competitive performances across the weekend at Herning CDI3*. 

In Friday’s CDI3* Grand Prix, Annabella and Vamos Amigos delivered a fourth place finish in a competitive field. Their score of 68.261% placed the duo just shy of the podium, less than 0.025% behind Denmark’s Anna Toosbuy Rasch and Everian L.  

Their performance on Friday laid the foundation for a stunning return to the arena for Saturday’s Grand Prix Special where they rose to the top of the leaderboard with an outstanding score of 70.660%, giving Annabella her first senior victory in two years. Germany’s Greta Heemsoth and Anthrazit 5 secured second place on 69.617%, whilst Denmark’s Nanna Skodborg Merrald and Blue Hors Znickers completed the podium on 69.362%. 

Taking to social media to share her excitement, Annabella said, “I am so happy with the feeling he gave me today and I can’t wait to build on this throughout the season. Thank you Vamos for giving your all every step of the way.” 

Giving credit to the team behind their success, the 20-year-old rider who’s currently based in Denmark added, “Of course, the biggest thank you goes to my whole team for making this possible, but especially to Laura Nielsen [groom] for always taking the best care of our special boy. This win is all of yours too!” 

Results – top three and British placings 

Friday 8 March

CDI3* Grand Prix
1.    Nanna Skodborg Merrald and Blue Hors Znickers, 69.804% (DEN)
2.    Greta Heemsoth and Anthrazit 5, 69.587% (GER)
3.    Anna Toosbuy Rasch and Everian L, 68.283% (DEN)
4.    Annabella Pidgley and Vamos Amigos, 68.261% (GBR)

Saturday 9 March

CDI3* Grand Prix Special
1.    Annabella Pidgley and Vamos Amigos, 70.660% (GBR)
2.    Greta Heemsoth and Anthrazit 5, 69.617% (GER)
3.    Nanna Skodborg Merrald and Blue Hors Znickers, 69.362% (DEN)

FULL RESULTS

Photo © Ridehesten