Mari Durward-Akhurst and Athene Lindebjerg secured Great Britain’s fifth bronze medal at the 2025 European Para dressage Championships by finishing third in the grade I freestyle with a score of 77.14%. Mari, riding an 18-year-old mare, expressed joy at winning her second medal of the championship and praised the mare’s connection to their musical freestyle featuring themes from Pearl Harbour and Pirates of the Caribbean. Latvia’s Rihards Snikus and King of the Dance dominated the event, winning gold with 80.67%, while Italy’s Sara Morganti took silver with 79.82%, replicating the earlier grand prix A individual podium.
Gabby Blake also performed well, finishing fifth with her 16-year-old gelding Strong Beau, scoring 74.40%. Despite some challenges with Beau’s spirited behavior during the freestyle, Gabby remained positive and credited her coach Sophie Wells, the National Lottery, and British Equestrian for their support. Overall, Mari described the week as “incredible” and was thrilled with their consistent performances and medal haul, highlighting the pressure and satisfaction of competing at such a high level.
