The British Equiline-sponsored show-jumper Nick Skelton and his horse Big Star are missing from the line-up of the European Champinships in Herning, Denmark in August. Olympic gold medal winning showjumpers Scott Brash and Ben Maher are on the British squad for next month’s championships, but not the anchorman of the London 2012 team. It’s a big surprise, knowing Nick and Big Star recently won the prestigious grand prix at Aachen, Germany. To Horse&Hound the Britis Equestrian Federation states that Nick isn't getting any younger and the main target remains Rio 2016.
“We have to look after Nick and Big Star as they have a big part to play for Team GB to first qualify for Rio and then to defend our Olympic title in 2016″, said performance manager Rob Hoekstra to Horse and Hound. Skelton added: “I feel that it is in the best interest for Big Star to give him a year off from a Championship.” On the team for the Europeans Scott Brash (Hello Sanctos) and Ben Maher (Cella) will be joined by William Funnell (Billy Congo), Robert Smith (Voila IV) and Michael Whitaker (Viking V).
© Horse&Hound/ equnews.com - photo: Sportfot
The British Equiline-sponsored show-jumper Nick Skelton and his horse Big Star are missing from the line-up of the European Champinships in Herning, Denmark in August. Olympic gold medal winning showjumpers Scott Brash and Ben Maher are on the British squad for next month’s championships, but not the anchorman of the London 2012 team. It’s a big surprise, knowing Nick and Big Star recently won the prestigious grand prix at Aachen, Germany. To Horse&Hound the Britis Equestrian Federation states that Nick isn't getting any younger and the main target remains Rio 2016.
“We have to look after Nick and Big Star as they have a big part to play for Team GB to first qualify for Rio and then to defend our Olympic title in 2016″, said performance manager Rob Hoekstra to Horse and Hound. Skelton added: “I feel that it is in the best interest for Big Star to give him a year off from a Championship.” On the team for the Europeans Scott Brash (Hello Sanctos) and Ben Maher (Cella) will be joined by William Funnell (Billy Congo), Robert Smith (Voila IV) and Michael Whitaker (Viking V).
© Horse&Hound/ equnews.com - photo: Sportfot