[WEC Reports] Italy doubtful of podium finish

New Straits Times

2008/11/07

FORMER world champions Italy have written off their chances of mounting a serious challenge in the FEI World Endurance Championships (WEC) as they will be without two riders for today's race.

Italy, who lifted the team title at the 2004 edition in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, had initially lost Cinzia Lachelli, after failing to present her horse -- Missouri -- for the compulsory veterinary inspection yesterday.

Simona Di Battista's mount Lara was eliminated by the veterinarians as the horse was limping.

Italian team leader Vergemino Testa said realistically, their chances of a podium finish in the team event is over as only four riders are left in the squad.

"It is very unfortunate that two of our riders cannot start tomorrow (today) but this is part and parcel of the sport," he said at TIEP yesterday.
However, he felt that Gianluca Laliscia, who was part of the winning team in 2004, will be a good bet for the individual title. Laliscia will be riding Kohl today.

The other riders are Vincenzo Catalano (Parytet), Simona Garatti (Z'tadore Al Maury) and Patricia Giacchro (Locace).

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Posted By Merri to WEC Reports at 11/07/2008 02:50:00 AM