Isabell Werth Secures Her 19th and 20th German Dressage Titles in Balve

Thus, team Olympic champion Frederic Wandres on Bluetooth (77.686) finished third in the test but second in the championship. Behind him followed Charlott-Maria Schürmann with Dante's Pearl (76.431).

Clear Victory in the Freestyle

One day after her success in the Grand Prix Special, the eight-time Olympic champion also won the Freestyle. In the Kür, she prevailed clearly on Viva Gold with 83.650 percentage points. Werth pushed Semmieke Rothenberger on Farrington (80.880) and Raphael Netz on Great Escape Camelot (79.030) into second and third place.

For the 56-year-old from Rheinberg, these were national titles number 19 and 20. Werth has dominated German dressage for decades and counts among the most successful riders in the sport's history internationally. With her eight Olympic gold medals, she holds a record that is virtually unique in equestrian sport.

Strong Competition in the German Field

The championship in Balve is considered one of the most important dates on the German dressage calendar and also serves as a benchmark for the upcoming international tasks. The fact that Werth came out clearly on top on two different horses in two different tests underscores the exceptional breadth of her stable.

Viva Gold, with which Werth won the Freestyle, presented herself in outstanding form. The 83.650 percentage points reflect the technical precision and artistic radiance demanded in a Freestyle. Wendy, in turn, who clinched victory in the Grand Prix Special, once again confirmed her role as one of the most reliable top horses on the German team.

Behind Werth, it was above all the young riders who drew attention. Semmieke Rothenberger and Raphael Netz showed with their placings that, beyond the established top tier, the German dressage scene boasts strong talent. Charlott-Maria Schürmann and Frederic Wandres likewise underlined the high density of Germany's elite field with their rankings.

Werth's Record Continues to Grow

With titles 19 and 20, Werth consolidates her status as a defining figure in German dressage history. She is already regarded as a record-breaking rider, and every additional championship extends that lead. The coming months will show whether Werth can confirm her form at the international highlights of the year as well.

In Balve, in the end, one thing was clear above all: Werth dictated proceedings at will, and the competition could only battle for the places behind her. German dressage has an exceptional talent in her – and the national titles in Balve are further proof of that.