Gareth Hughes pulls out of Rio

Just days after the dressage long list for Rio has been announced British rider Gareth Hughes has had to withdraw his Rio hopeful Classic Briolinca due to an injury sustained at Rotterdam CHIO.

Rotterdam CHIO

The injury occurred whilst Gareth and the 10-year-old KWPN mare were about to take part in the Rotterdam CHIO5* Grand Prix. The pair were five minutes away from entering the arena when Gareth felt the mare’s leg go as they trotted across the diagonal.

Gareth said: “It is hugely disappointing but not career ending. It’s a recurrence of an old injury and she will have the rest of the year off.

“The important thing is she a gorgeous young horse with a bright future and lots of championships ahead of her.”

Heart Break

Classic Briolinca is one of 15 horses named in the British teams long list and Rotterdam was a last minute push to prove that they had what it takes to make the squad.

“It is heart wrenching. The dream has literally been taken away in one stride but there is always someone with a worse story and although it’s gutting it’s not the end of our career and we will live to fight another day ” Gareth told H&C.

“I would like to thank all my team at home my sponsors family and friends for their support this year. We have been very fortunate to have extraordinary support from World Class without them this would not be possible.”

The Olympic teams will be announced on 5 July with the Paralympics GB athletes to be officially announced on 14 July.