Junior dressage rider Robin Stempel has withdrawn from this week’s FEI North American Youth Championship in Michigan after her horse developed a fungal infection.

“Unfortunately, Robin’s horse, Rossano Royal 2, developed a fungal infection on his lower side,” the Bermuda Equestrian Federation announced in a statement.

“After consultation with his veterinarian as well as the FEI, it was determined that the infection would not heal sufficiently within the time frame of the upcoming FEI North American Youth Championship.

“As such, the best course of action was to withdraw from this year’s Championship.”

Stempel has committed the past two years to an intensive training programme under the tutelage of American dressage trainer, Tami Batts, to enhance her skills in preparation for the prestigious event being held at the Flintsfield Horse Park in Traverse City from August 8 to 13.

“Her commitment to training was apparent with the rewards of her labour shown in her receiving consistently impressive and solid scores,” the BEF statement added.

“Indeed, it was a mere week ago, that Robin and Rossano Royal 2 were awarded an outstanding score of 77.8 per cent in the USDF and FEI Freestyle Tests at the Raleigh Summer competition.

“This dynamic team was well prepared and favoured to successfully compete under the Bermuda Flag at upcoming North American Youth Championship.

“The Bermuda Equestrian Federation deeply shares in Robin’s disappointment at this unfortunate turn of events and wish Rossano a complete and full recovery.“