July 7, 2024—Steffen Peters and Suppenkasper rebounded from an uncharacteristic test in the FEI Grand Prix CDI4* earlier in the week at the CHIO Aachen World Equestrian Festival. On Saturday, they earned a strong score for a podium finish in the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI4*. Peters (San Diego, Calif.) took third overall, receiving a 76.430% from the judging panel.
The duo’s fun and upbeat floor plan and musical composition livened up Deutsche Bank Stadium late into the evening.
Julio Mendoza Loor (ECU) and Jewel’s Goldstrike finished in first on a 78.920%, with Sandra Sysojeva (POL) and Maxima Bella earning second with a 78.501%.
A Comeback Performance
On Wednesday, Peters and Suppenkasper had a tough start to their time competing in Aachen. Suppenkasper displayed tension throughout the FEI Grand Prix Test CDI4*, particularly during the initial halt, rein back and walk tour. The pair scored 68.131% for 19th place out of 22 combinations. Peters and Suppenkasper were back to their usual form in Saturday’s FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI4*, finishing on the podium.
Peters said after Saturday’s class, “Of course, this class was a bit tricky after the difficult Grand Prix earlier in the week. ‘Mopsie’ was still very excited this evening. In the beginning, the first centerline clearly showed some tension, but he settled down and did a wonderful, clean freestyle with a relaxed walk tour and very good piaffe/passage work.”
Next up, Peters and Suppenkasper will head to the 2024 Paris Olympics to represent the U.S. Olympic Dressage Team.
FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI4* results
Thanks to Sentinel Horse Nutrition for our coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics, including rider interviews, competition reports, horse spotlights, photos, videos and more.
