Top ranked Tim Price looking for win in Germany
World No. 1 Tim Price leads a contingent of New Zealand riders competing in the Longines Luhmuhlen Horse Trials CCI5*-L in Germany this week. Price, a two-time winner of the event, enters the competition with 14-year-old Happy Boy, who placed fourth at Pau last year. The event is one of only six 5* trials globally, representing the highest rank in eventing.
Which New Zealand riders are competing at Luhmuhlen?
The New Zealand start card includes world No. 7 Samantha Lissington, who is paired with 5* debutant Delarado. Jonelle Price is competing with two horses: Capitaine De Hus Z and Pau 5* winner Grappa Nera.
Other athletes include Abby Jones aboard Henton Audacious, Vicky Browne-Cole with 5* first-timer Cutting Edge, and James Avery on 5* debutant Dallas 13. Avery returns to competition after an injury last year, stating that both he and his horse are now fit.
What is the historical significance of this event for New Zealand?
New Zealand has a established presence on the Luhmuhlen honours board. Jonelle Price is the most recent Kiwi winner, having taken victory in 2018 with Faerie Dianimo.
Other previous winners from New Zealand include Andrew Nicholson and Mr Cruise Control in 2013, as well as Tim Price, who won with Wesko in 2014 and Ascona in 2019.
What are the potential outcomes for the riders?
Tim Price may use the event to prepare for a World Championships bid with his partner Jarillo, who won the Pau 5* last year. Price stated he is hoping for “a good spin” with the horse.
Abby Jones could achieve her first 5* completion while riding her New Zealand Hanoverian, Henton Audacious. Similarly, Vicky Browne-Cole may secure a successful first 5* outing with Cutting Edge, whom she describes as primed and ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current world No. 1 entering the event?
Tim Price is the newly crowned world No. 1.
Which horse did Jonelle Price ride to victory in 2018?
Jonelle Price won the 5* at Luhmuhlen riding Faerie Dianimo.
How many 5* debutants are in the New Zealand contingent?
Three riders are making 5* debuts: Samantha Lissington (Delarado), Vicky Browne-Cole (Cutting Edge), and James Avery (Dallas 13).
Which of these New Zealand pairings do you think has the best chance of returning to the honours board?