In his first Nations Cup for Germany, which Million Dollar with Sophie Hinners in the saddle rode yesterday at the Mannheim Maimarkt tournament, the Verband stallion exceeded all expectations. Due to equal points, the German team had to compete against Switzerland in the jump-off. Million Dollar and Sophie had previously been faultless in both the first and second round. The team was completed by Patrick Stühlmeyer, Kendra Claricia Brinkop and André Thieme.
In the all-important round, the Federal Trainer chose the ten-year-old Holsteiner Verband Hengsthaltungs GmbH sire and his 24-year-old rider. The two also remained without fault in the jump-off. However, Alain Jufer (SUI), who had saddled his Diarado son Dante MM, was a little faster than Million Dollar and Sophie, who ended up in a great second place with their team mates. "The horse is developing incredibly great. I only got him in January. He makes me feel great every round and grows with his tasks. He is getting better and better," said the reigning German Champion, who rode her fourth Nations Cup in Mannheim. "I was nervous before the jump-off, but very relieved afterwards. I am super proud of how Million Dollar jumped, even if it was a bit disappointing at the end." Only one second was missing for the victory. But the decision could have been made earlier.