The Return of The Grand Champions
**They say all good things come to those who wait, and it couldn't be truer for fans and followers of the dynamic dressage duo: Dutch rider Edward Gal and his Olympic horse, Total US. After nearly three years of absence, this unparalleled pair is making a much-anticipated comeback to competitive dressage. The grand prix at the CDI3* in Exloo, Netherlands, will witness the return of these champions, as confirmed by Horses.nl.
**From Tokyo Olympics To The CDI3*
**Past success has not dimmed either Gal’s or Total US's competitive spirit. The duo last showcased their talents together at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Their performance was no ordinary feat- they secured an enviable sixth position individually with a score of 84.15%. This spectacle was all the more poignant as Edward rode Total US to the sound of music from Totilas’ Kentucky World Equestrian Games 2010 routine.
**Let's Turn Back the Clock
**Edward Gal and Total US didn't just wake up one day and decided to compete in the Olympics. Their journey was filled with trials and tribulations, culminating in a remarkable achievement. They punched their Olympic ticket at the European Championships in Rotterdam, Netherlands, 2019, finishing second in the team competition and fourth individually. Unfortunately, their journey to the coveted ring didn't remain unobstructed. Like many other athletes, their training and competition momentum were interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
**What Do Long Breaks Entail for Equestrians?
**The impact of lengthy hiatuses on equestrian performances has been a topic of recent research. These breaks often lead to a dip in form and compromise the fitness levels of both the horse and rider. The transition back to the competitive environment can be a complex one, necessitating comprehensive planning and exertive preparation.
The management of an athlete's return to tournaments is often overseen by regional equestrian associations, such as the Royal Dutch Equestrian Association (KNHS). This institution played an instrumental role in finalizing the FEI registration for Edward Gal and Total US, marking their return to the riding rink.
**The Dressage Event of the Tokyo Olympics
**The Tokyo Olympics dressage was an event of grand anticipation. Top-tier dressage riders worldwide, including our honorable mention, Edward Gal and Total US, showcased their refined skills and horse-rider chemistry. Horses Dream in Hokkaido, Japan served as the perfect background for the world's best to compete under strict COVID-19 protocols, prioritizing everyone's safety.
**Summary
**Pairing resilience with dedication, Edward Gal and Total US are set to embark on a new chapter in their professional careers. After experiencing an involuntary hiatus, their return to competitive dressage is truly inspiring. Although the road may be competitive, their past achievements and the excitement for forthcoming ones make it worthwhile. The long-awaited comeback of Edward Gal and Total US serves as a shining example of perseverance in the face of challenges, infusing excitement in the equestrian landscape. Eagerly awaited by fans and followers, their return promises to be a spectacle worth experiencing.
**Sources:** Horses.nl, FEI, Royal Dutch Equestrian Association.