“This is going beyond just robbing Peter to pay Paul.”
Salzburg woman buys Dujardin's top horse after scandal video
Austrian dressage rider Victoria Max-Theurer is recovering from "minor" back surgery ahead of the Dressage European Championships. She said: “It seems like I am always on painkillers to get through major competitions.”Victoria Max-Theurer, a top Austrian dressage rider, has brought Charlotte Dujardin's former horse, Mount St John Freestyle, after the Olympic champion was filmed whipping the horse excessively.
The video, which was posted on social media, showed Dujardin using a whip on Freestyle multiple times, including on the horse's hindquarters. The incident sparked outrage among animal rights activists and equestrian fans, leading to an investigation by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI).
The FEI found that Dujardin had violated the organization's rules on horse welfare, and she was suspended from competition for two months. The decision was met with criticism from some in the equestrian community, who argued that the punishment was too lenient. Dujardin has since apologized for her actions and said that she is "committed to the highest standards of horse welfare".
Max-Theurer, a former world champion, said that she was "disappointed" by Dujardin's actions, but that she believes that the horse deserves a second chance.
"I think it is important to remember that Freestyle is a victim in all of this," she said. "He is a beautiful horse with a lot of talent.”
Max-Theurer said that she plans to give Freestyle a "safe and loving home" and that she is confident that he can return to top-level competition.
"I believe in him," she said. "I think he has the potential to be a great horse again."
The Salzburg native is recognized for her skill in developing horses to compete at the highest levels. She has a knack for spotting potential in horses and nurturing their abilities, making her an ideal owner for Freestyle.
Freestyle has a bright future ahead of him with Max-Theurer as his new owner. Under her guidance, Freestyle will get the chance to shine once again on the world stage.
The sale of Freestyle to Max-Theurer marks a new chapter in the horse's life and potentially for the sport of dressage as well. Dujardin's actions have cast a shadow over the equestrian community, but Max-Theurer's purchase of Freestyle offers a glimmer of hope. With her dedication to animal welfare and her commitment to excellence, Max-Theurer has the potential to restore faith in the sport and inspire a new generation of riders.
