Contrary to raised eyebrows surrounding the selection of the Eventing team for WEG, there are few surprises in today's announcement of the WEG Dressage team.

Although it is rumoured three out of the four riders were told of their place on Monday and other potential squad members would need to compete a fourth time, it is said selectors changed their mind and the final line up comprises of experienced partnerships.

Sure certs

Ranked third by the FEI, it is little surprise that Laura Bechtolsheimer has made the team with Mistral Hojris. Laura will also have Andretti H, who she has also achieved great scores with recently, as her reserve horse.

Despite a disappointing start to his WEG campaign with Leibling II at Hartpury, Carl Hester has secured his place in the team following his excellent performance at Hickstead last weekend - something dressage fans will be delighted to learn. Hester is always a huge crowd pleaser, and the recent renewal of his partnership with Leibling II has delighted dressage fans.

Also in the team are Fiona Bigwood riding her own Wie Atlantico and Maria Eilberg riding her long term partner, Two Sox. Both partnerships are experienced at international competition.

The non-travelling reserves are Henriette Andersen (Louis D’Or III) and Emile Faurie (Elmegardens Marquis).

A strong quartet

Dressage Team Captain Richard Davison said on the selection: “This is yet another strong quartet, mostly composed of last year’s silver medal winning team. While Laura is ranked third in the world, the other riders have had to fight hard for their place and I am confident they will deliver the goods in Kentucky.”