In the last big event before the World Equestrian Games it was the German riders that reigned supreme on home ground in Aachen this afternoon. The German team coached by Hans Melzer won the DHL prize Nations Cup with a combined score of 129 points. Great Britain finished in second place with 152.4 points with France completing the podium with 164.60 points. In addition to the fantastic team result the German riders also took the top 3 individual placings. Sandra Auffarth took Gold with with the 12 year old Selle Francais gelding Opgun Louvu and finished on a total of 33.80 penalties after winning all three disciplines. Ingrid Klimke was next on the 10 year old Hanoverian mare FRH Escada JS with 40.20 penalties. Current World, European and Olympic champion Michael Jung finished third with the 14 year old Baden- Württemberg gelding La Biosthetique- Sam FBW with 41.20 penalties. It was a very hot day with temperatures reaching over 30°c but according to German head coach Hans Melzer " the conditions were optimal for the horses". The ground was in great condition and held up well on this fair but demanding course built by Rüdiger Schwarz. Auffarth, the individual Bronze medallist from London, was very happy with her win," My horse went really well, he was very clever once again. I can totally rely on him and have a lot of confidence in him". These amazing results will give the Germans a boost of confidence and a lot of motivation for the WEG in Normandy later this year. They will be going in as clear favourites.
