German riders seem to love Spruce Meadows and why not? That country won the first BMO Nations’ Cup in 1977 and has captured nine titles since 1998. On Saturday, Team Germany’s latest triumph came as the squad collected just five faults over two rounds on the penultimate day of the 2024 Spruce Meadows Masters tournament. “My history is 35 years; this is something special,” said Germany’s chef d’equipe Otto Becker, who experienced success at the venue in his own riding days.
“Aachen is special for us, the home country, but also Spruce Meadows and that’s why we have this top team here. All the good riders want to come here. Today the conditions and the crowd was fantastic.
It’s special to compete here and to win here. “I love gold medals,” he smiled, clutching the one around his neck, “and I’m really happy to have this here.” Team Germany comprised of Andre Thieme, Jorne Sprehe, Daniel Deusser and Jana Wargers.
Thieme and Paule S had eight faults, Sprehe and Toys had 12, Deusser had a lone time fault on Gangster V/H Noddevelt and Wargers was the only double clear on the squad. As the last rider in the competition, she needed a clear or a time fault to win and she and Dorette Old did not disappoint. “I had a bit of pressure, but I have to say my horse jumped really good the first round and I had the feeling that she was ready for the second round,” said the 33-year-old.
“I’m very happy I was able to handle the pressure and gave it a clear round.