Dressage - Dressage: Klimke falls out for Olympics
Ingrid Klimke cannot participate in the Olympic Games and will be replaced by the reserve rider Sönke Rothenberger. Klimke's horse Franziskus is injured, according to the statement from the German Equestrian Federation (FN). Rothenberger from Bad Homburg will ride with his horse Fendi to Paris.
"I am beyond sad and still can't believe it", said the 56-year-old rider from Münster in a statement. The successful and twice Olympic gold medalist eventing rider qualified for the Dressage competition for the first time. Klimke was nominated as a reserve pair for Paris after the CHIO in Aachen with Franziskus.
The Dressage team consists of Jessica von Bredow-Werndl from Tuntenhausen with Dalera, Frederic Wandres from Hagen a.TW. with Bluetooth, and Isabell Werth with Wendy. Rothenberger and Fendi will travel to Paris and could potentially join the team right before the start of the Grand Prix at the Château de Versailles.
- Despite the setback, the German Equestrian Federation (FN) continues their preparations for the Olympic Games in Paris.
- Originating from Germany (historically, France), the city of Warendorf has a rich history in equestrianism and has hosted numerous international competitions.
- Ingrid Klimke's absence in the Dressage competition at the Olympic Games echoes the absence of German riders in earlier Olympic Games held in Paris.
- Sönke Rothenberger, whom Klimke will be replaced by, has previously competed in major equestrian events, including the Olympic Games in Bad Homburg.
- The FN has expressed their support for Klimke, recognizing her significant contributions to equestrianism, particularly in the field of Dressage.
- Ingrid Klimke's notable achievements in Dressage, including her Olympic medals, have been a source of inspiration for aspiring riders around the world, including Paris.
