Wernitznig brings Achleiten to a perfect close

The international dressage show (CDI4*) in Achleiten came to a close on Sunday with a high-quality FEI Grand Prix Special. In the idyllic dressage arena set within the castle park, riders delivered top-class sport despite the ever-changing weather conditions of sunshine and rain. Lisa Wernitznig and Superb provided a fitting finale to a successful competition weekend.

The Carinthian-born rider claimed victory in the final class of the show aboard Superb 2 with a score of 71.107%, finishing ahead of Felicita Simoncic and Four Legends (70.405%) and Florian Bacher with Da Vinci (70.149%). Judged by a distinguished international judging panel, Wernitznig impressed with a convincing performance and once again highlighted the positive development of her still relatively new partnership with Superb.

“I’m very happy. It keeps getting better and better, and we haven’t known each other for that long yet. This was only our second international show and our second Grand Prix Special together,” Wernitznig said during the prize-giving ceremony. While a few minor mistakes remained, she was highly satisfied with the overall performance. The rider was particularly proud of how fresh and motivated her mare felt after a long week of competition.

“We arrived in the middle of the week and have had several intensive days here. The fact that she still had so much energy and presented herself so beautifully on the final day is what makes me most proud. It feels really good at the moment.”

Looking ahead, the 31-year-old takes plenty of valuable lessons home from Achleiten. She believes there is still room for improvement, especially in the finer details. “We’ll be working more on transitions, the extended trot, and the halt and salute. Often it’s the small things that add up during a test and ultimately make a difference.”

Wernitznig attributes the harmonious partnership she has already developed with Superb to her extensive experience riding different horses. As a rider and trainer based at Isabell Werth’s stable in Germany, she has learned the importance of adapting to each horse’s individual character. “Every horse is different and you have to learn how to work with its personality. I think that’s exactly what helped us come together so quickly.”

Despite the successful result, the winner remains focused on the next steps. “Right now, our focus is on Hagen. We’ll take things one step at a time. Our goal is to compete at many more beautiful international shows for Austria.”

With her victory in the Grand Prix Special, Wernitznig delivered the sporting highlight of a successful CDI4* in Achleiten and brought the event to a memorable close against the stunning backdrop of the castle park.

RESULTS N°4 FEI Grand Prix Special (CDI4*) 1. Lisa Wernitznig (AUT), Superb 2, 71,107 Percent 2. Felicita Simoncic (AUT), Four Legends, 70,405 3. Florian Bacher (AUT), Da Vinci, 70,149 Detailed results HERE