Portuguese Dressage Olympic Team for Paris 2024

Jul 24, 2024

Text: Lusitano World

As the excitement builds for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Portugal proudly unveils its dressage team! Featuring three exceptional riders — Maria Caetano, Rita Ralão Duarte, and João Moreira along with António do Vale and Jeanette Jenny as reserves, these talented equestrians are ready to represent the nation on the world’s biggest stage. Get ready to witness their skill, dedication, and passion for dressage as they aim for glory in Paris. Let's meet the athletes who will be making Portugal proud!

Maria Caetano

Maria Caetano is a seasoned competitor and a reference in the dressage world in Portugal. Maria has consistently shone on the international stage, proudly representing Portugal time and again. Her impressive track record includes seven European Championships, four World Championships, and a stellar performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she placed 7th in the team event and 27th individually.

For Paris 2024, Maria will be riding Hit Plus, a 12-year-old Portuguese Sport Horse sired by Bretton Woods. This duo has racked up several international victories, consistently scoring above 70%. With her vast experience and unflappable poise under pressure, Maria is a valuable asset for the Portuguese team!

Rita Ralão Duarte

Rita Ralão Duarte is well-known for her elegant riding style and precise execution. Her dedication to the sport and her knack for forming harmonious partnerships with her horses have been key to her success. As the daughter of Olympic rider Miguel Ralão Duarte, Rita has dressage in her blood, and it was only a matter of time before she reached this stage!

For Paris 2024, Rita will be piloting Irão PFC, an 11-year-old Lusitano stallion sired by the Olympic Rubi AR and owned by Team Rubi. Despite only competing together in the International Big Tour for a year, they've already achieved excellent results in prestigious CDIs, ranking among the top 100 FEI Dressage riders worldwide. Rita's inclusion in the Olympic team is a testament to her hard work and exceptional talent. We are cheering for you, Rita!

João Moreira

Completing the trio is João Moreira, a Germany-based Portuguese athlete who has racked up several wins on the international dressage scene. He competed at the 2022 FEI World Championships in Herning and the 2023 European Championships in Riesenbeck, where he finished 18th in the individual final Freestyle.

For the Paris 2024 Olympics, João will be riding Drosa Fürst Kennedy OLD, a 9-year-old Oldenburg stallion by Fürsten-Look. Despite this being João’s first Olympic run and Fürst Kennedy’s first year competing at the Grand Prix level, their impressive performances have positioned them as formidable competitors. We're excited to see what they achieve in Paris!

Looking Ahead to Paris 2024

After one hundred years, the Olympics are returning to Paris! The 2024 edition will add a new chapter to the Palace of Versailles’ rich history as it becomes the venue for equestrian sports events.

As the Portuguese athletes gear up for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, they are focused not only on personal success but also on elevating Portugal's presence on the global dressage scene. Their journey to Paris is backed by rigorous training, expert coaching, and the unwavering support of their nation and the Lusitano community. The team will be led by the renowned trainer Kyra Kyrklund, captained by António Frutuoso de Melo, and assisted by team vet Dr. Bruno Miranda. The first reserve will also travel with the team to the Games in Paris.

As we look forward to the Olympic Games, let's celebrate the achievements of Maria Caetano, Rita Ralão Duarte, and João Moreira. Their dedication and passion serve as an inspiration to equestrians worldwide. Join us in cheering for the Portuguese dressage team as they aim for excellence in Paris 2024! 🇵🇹

Olympic Schedule for Dressage

Do you already know the Olympic Schedule? Dressage competition will take place over four days:

Tuesday, 30 July 2024 - 11:00: Grand Prix - 1st Group - Team & Individual Qualifier (30 starters)
Wednesday, 31 July 2024 - 10:00: Grand Prix - 2nd Group - Team & Individual Qualifier (30 starters)
Saturday, 3 August 2024 - 10:00: Grand Prix Special - Team Medal Competition (30 starters)
Sunday, 4 August 2024 - 10:00: Kur to Music - Individual Medal Competition (18 starters)

Let's rally behind our riders and show our support as they represent Portugal on the world stage!

About Us

Lusitano World offers a combination of services dedicated to promote the Lusitano Horse worldwide and to highlight the richness of Portuguese equestrian culture. Visit our website and follow our social media platforms to find out what we can offer.