Golden Isabell Werth takes 9th titel

Golden Isabell Werth takes 9th titel
The score board in U.S. Trust Arena was ablaze when Germany's multi-medalist Isabell Werth captivated hearts again, winning her second Gold medal at the FEI World Equestrian Games™ Tryon 2018 aboard Bella Rose. The duo bested US-stalwart Laura Graves and Verdades who captured Silver and defending champion Charlotte Dujardin (GBR) and Mount St John Freestyle to Bronze.

Werth and fiery chestnut mare Bella Rose came out as the last rider of 30, presenting a flawless test. The pair scored 86.246%, including several 10's from the judges' panel of seven.

"Three were out with more than 80 already so I knew we had to give it our best. When Bella started to trot I felt she wanted to go and do it and the half passes could not have been better," said Werth.

Graves had put everything into her ride, presenting the 16-year-old Verdades with utmost precision in each step, despite gusts of wind picking up during her ride.

"It feels amazing. Two days in a row we really delivered for our country. The heat is a test of a horses' character." Equally sensational was Charlotte Dujardin's ride to Bronze, piloting her mare Mount St John Freestyle to 81.489%. The nine-year young mare showed picture-perfect passage that is usually only acquired at a more advanced age.

"Her passage was incredible. We continue to work on it and will give Isabell a run for her money." Germany's Sönke Rothenberger missed the podium by 0.44 points after mistakes in the one-tempi changes.

"I am disappointed. The horse would have deserved a medal because of its overall quality, but of course, we should not make mistakes."