Bettina Hoy in the lead after DressageThe Dressage phase of the Eventing competition was completed today. Bettina Hoy (GER) aboard Ringwood Cockatoo is in the lead with a remarkable 36.50. “It was amazing to see so many fans cheering with German flags all over. It was hard, but I remained focused on Dressage,” Bettina said. She, as a true supporter of her own nation, has died parts of her hair in the colours of the German flag and is very much part of the bright atmosphere. She is followed by fellow German team-mate Ingrid Klimke on Sleep Late (39.10) and by overnight’s leader Andreas Dibowski on FRH Sleel Late (40.90) from …. Germany, who is tied in third position with Kimberly Severson (USA) on Winsome Adante, Initially, Dibowski had been disappointed not to be part of the German team, but that may now be proving an advantage taking some pressure off his shoulders. In the team competition, Germany is in the lead (122,50), followed by Australia (136,10) and Great Britain (138,60). Despite winning three consecutive Olympic Games, Australia has never won a medal at a World Games, nor a world title. The door to success is still wide open and much will depend on the Cross Country course. It is unanimously described as a true championship challenge, where questions are being asked most of the way round. The 31 fences (45 jumping efforts) spreading over 6.380 m are beautifully built and presented. German Course Designer Ruediger Schwarz’s innovative design will test the best riders. It definitely is a tough course but it offers numerous alternatives and which ever solution is preferred, riding and concentration are required through to the very end. 78 riders from 24 countries will defend their chances on the Cross Country starting tomorrow at 9h30.