Fence 4, the first water, where many came to grief.
via Luhmuhlen’s official course preview
There was “a lot of flak” this year at Luhmühlen, where the cross-country proved quite difficult for many competitors. Luhmühlen stands behind their course designer, though– Captain Mark Phillips is signed on for another three years, though organizers have requested some changes for next year. [Read more: Captain Mark Phillips Responds to Criticism]
Organizer Julia Otto said the standard of riders this year had been “completely different and the technical questions were too difficult for some.”
Next year’s course would be “a little easier and friendlier”, she added, stressing that Capt Phillips was “one of the best course-designers in the world” and would stay on for another three years.
Mark Phillips told H&H he had met the organisers of Luhmühlen last month.
“It was decided they wanted to keep the CCI as a four-star, but make the CIC3* more for the younger horses, so that people will know what to expect,” he said.
That’s great that the CIC3* course will be adjusted; but most of the complaints this year were regarding the CCI4* course. The first water jump, fence 4, caused several horse falls, including American Jennie Brannigan and Cambalda, Nicola Wilson with Opposition Buzz, and Andrew Nicholson with Qwanza. There was also public outrage at the tragic death of Emeric George’s mount P’tite Bombe, who fell at fence 12 (a table).
