William Fox-Pitt and Chilli Morning. Photo by Jenni Autry.

William Fox-Pitt is well on his way to staging a spectacular comeback at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, currently sitting atop the leaderboard on 37.0 with Chilli Morning just 10 months after suffering a brain injury in a fall at Le Lion d’Angers. EquiRatings dug into their database and confirmed that 37.0 is William’s best dressage score at an Olympics.

The test was classic Fox-Pitt: flowing, rhythmic and accurate, and the internet practically exploded with love for William and “Chilli” after the score was announced. The #EventingFamily has cheered loudly for William during his recovery, and to see him back in action on the world stage was nothing short of inspirational.

“That was what I was dreaming of. Chilli is great on the flat, and he did very good tests at the Caen 2014 World Equestrian Games and Malmo 2013 European Championships, and I did not want to let him down,” William said.

“In November (one month after the accident), I thought Rio is still months away, but then I suddenly realized that Rio is just around the corner. I had lots of help with my rehabilitation, and I saw more experts than I ever wanted to see. For me it was perfect timing, and I am just lucky to be here.”

Chilli, a 16-year-old chestnut Brandenburg stallion owned by Christopher Stone, has a long and storied partnership with William, having won Badminton last year and helping Great Britain win a team silver medal at the 2014 World Equestrian Games. While an individual Olympic gold medal has eluded William in his career this far, he’s put himself in just the right place to strike.

Chris Burton and Santano II. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Chris Burton’s lovely test with Santano II was overshadowed a bit due to being followed by William and Chilli, but their score of 37.6 has them sitting close behind in second place. The 9-year-old Hanoverian gelding owned by the Black Run Syndicate, who won Saumur CCI3* in May, really shines in this phase.

“The cat’s out of the bag, the horse doesn’t have a good walk. Of course we can do things better. But he makes my job really easy, honestly, he is such a good horse,” Chris said. “I was nervous when I rode down for the warm-up but then I told myself, ‘Chris, you should have fun.’ After the medium trot, I heard a gasp from the crowd and I thought, ‘That’s not a bad gasp.'”

Michael Jung and Sam. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Reigning Olympic champions Michael Jung and Sam were cruising beautifully through their test, with their scores trending to take the lead, until an uncharacteristic bobble derailed their chances when the horse swapped leads in the counter canter. Their score of 40.9 has them sitting in third place currently.

“I am not quite happy. That was an expensive mistake because of a misunderstanding between the two of us. Right afterwards he was fully with me again, but it is very annoying to have something like that happening at such an important show,” Michael said. “There are two very interesting disciplines still to come, and we will see. I hope there aren’t any more of these silly mistakes.”

Is Michael feeling the pressure to defend his gold medal? “There is always pressure because I want to win,” he said. “You dream of gold and want to do your best. We are not doing this just for fun but for winning. It did not quite work out today.”

While it was not Germany’s best day in the sandbox — Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Louvo scored well over their usual average score to sit in fourth place on 41.6 — the reigning Olympic champions are still sitting in gold medal position after the first day on 82.5. Australia sits in silver position on 83.9, with Great Britain in bronze position on 84.2.

Team USA sits in seventh place on 94.3 on the leaderboard after an up-and-down first day. The morning started out very strong, with Boyd Martin and the Blackfoot Mystery Syndicate’s Blackfoot Mystery besting their previous best four-star score by five points to sit in 17th on 47.7. (You can see photos and quotes from the morning session in our lunchtime report.)

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen. Photo by Jenni Autry.

While Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen came into Rio with a very strong chance to clinch an individual medal, today was not their best day in the sandbox. A series of mistakes — from a near break to the walk in the trot half pass to a missed flying change — has them sitting in 10th place on 46.6, which is nearly 10 marks off their average.

“This is usually this horse’s time to shine in the dressage, and he was a little disappointing. He started out really well, and I don’t know what really happened, but he really sucked behind my leg where he constantly wants to walk or stop. I squeezed every point out of him that I could,” Clark said

“He warmed up beautifully … It felt good until he tried to walk, and then he wouldn’t click back in there. There were a couple of mistakes, but you can always make that back up, but he just stayed in that frame of mind. He wouldn’t get out of it.”

Kathryn Robinson and Let It Bee. Photo by Jenni Autry.

The Canadian team sits in ninth on 101.4, with Kathryn Robinson and Let It Bee leading the way in 21st place on 49.5. The 15-year-old black Westphalian gelding Kathryn owns had some really lovely moments but definitely seemed to struggle a bit in the heat; they did their test just after the lunch break during the hottest part of the day.

“He was quite lazy and a little bit flat because of the heat. I usually have to work him quite a bit before dressage, but today I didn’t really do much (in warm-up),” Kathryn said. “If I cook him I won’t have anything when I go in, and he can get sore in the back. I had to ride with a bit of hope. I was happy. He did everything I asked.”

Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance were the very first pair out this morning, scoring a personal best of 52.0 to sit in 25th place for Canada. You can also see quotes and photos of Jessica and “Blue Eyes” in our lunchtime report.

The bullet hole in the media center roof. Photo by Jenni Autry.

While it was a dramatic day in the sandbox, it was equally eventful outside of the field of play when a stray bullet sliced through the roof of the media center tent and landed on the floor below. While several members of the media and team officials were standing nearby when the bullet came through the roof, no one was injured.

An investigation is currently underway as to the origin of the bullet. Olympic spokesman Mario Andrada confirmed in a security briefing later in the day that “this area was not a target. It was a stray bullet. It did not have to do with the Games.” We will continue to bring you more on the story as the investigation unfolds, and you can read our original report here.

Keep checking back to this report for more photos from the day. We have much more to bring you from Rio, include Maggie’s detailed analysis on the dressage powerhouses coming up tomorrow on day two, plus a full cross country preview with commentary from the riders. Click here to catch up on all of EN’s Olympic coverage so far. Go Eventing!

#Rio2016: Website, Schedule, Dressage Ride Times, Individual Scores, Team Scores, EN’s Ultimate Guide to Rio, How to Watch Live, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Sandra Auffarth gave Opgun Louvo a big hug after their leading test. This is what it's all about! #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney Photo by Jenni Autry.

As was widely expected, reigning World Champions Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Louvo are leading the way for Germany at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro after the morning session on the first day of dressage.

While their score of 41.6 has the 14-year-old Selle Francais gelding sitting in first, the score is far off their average of 35.1 and definitely has potential implications from a team and individual medal standpoint. They’ve left the door open for another dressage powerhouse to step up here in Rio.

“”I was too laid back going into the first change and he did not quite know what to do. That was my mistake. Normally the changes are his strength,” Sandra said.

“I had a great feeling and if the scoring is different, then that is that. I will finish my competition as best as I can and in the end we will see where we stand. Nothing is lost yet. We have just started the competition. There is a lot more to come and we still have all the chances.”

That said, Sandra looked elated with Opgun Louvo after their final halt and salute, giving him a big hug and pat and beaming from ear to ear. With the internet collectively banding together during the Olympics, using the hashtags #TwoHearts and #JoinTheJourney to generate excitement for equestrian sports, those moments are what it’s all about.

Astier Nicolas and Piaf de B’Neville. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Astier Nicolas and Piaf de B’Neville scored right on par with their average for France, with a mark of 42.0 slotting them into second place just behind Sandra. The 13-year-old bay Selle Francis gelding won Pau CCI4* last fall and also clinched the Chatsworth leg of the Event Rider Master series early this year, so he’s very much on the radar for a top finish at these Games.

Sam Griffiths and Paulank Brockagh are rounding out the top three at the lunch break on a score of 46.3 for Australia, which is a bit higher than their average of 42.62. You have to wonder how the heat is affecting heavier horses like “Brocks,” a 13-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare. While there’s a pleasant breeze blowing here at Deodoro, it’s still a very warm day with temperatures currently hovering in the mid-80s.

Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Looking to our North American contingent, Boyd Martin squeezed every possible point out of his test with Blackfoot Mystery, a 12-year-old chestnut Thoroughbred gelding owned by the Blackfoot Mystery Syndicate. They bested their score from Rolex Kentucky by five marks to currently sit in seventh place on a personal best 47.7.

“My horse is the greenest on the team, but a good, fast galloper, so it made sense to put him first,” Boyd said. “I think we can expect three better scores from the U.S. after my guy, but I couldn’t have asked for much more. It’s about where he is in his training. He’s still on the more inexperienced side of things, and he did get a little bit excited with the cheering, but he kept his cool and did a good job.”

Blackfoot Mystery is one of just two off-track Thoroughbreds competing in eventing at the Olympics, which has delighted OTTB enthusiasts from all around the world. (The other is Carlos Parro’s mount Summon Up The Blood for Brazil.)

“He’s an amazing creature because he wasn’t bred to do this necessarily,” Boyd said. “He’s got the mind for it, and he’s got a fair bit of movement for the dressage and a good enough jump. He’s obviously brave and a good galloper. I definitely feel like we belong here. If I see another one that looks like him, I’ll buy him too.”

Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance. Photo by Jenni Autry.

Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance were first out this morning and knocked it out of the park for Canada, delivering a personal best score of 52.0 for “Blue,” plus a personal best score for Jessica at an Olympics. They’re currently sitting in 10th place.

As for how it felt to be the first down centerline at the Olympics, Jessica said: “What an honor. Oh my gosh! Opening up the Rio 2016 Olympic Games was a huge honor for A Little Romance and I. … I’m just extremely proud of what she did in that ring today. She relaxed, she enjoyed every minute of it, and it was a lot of fun.”

Canada’s road to Rio has been a rocky one, with multiple changes to their team due to appeals and soundness issues, but Jessica said the team camaraderie has been very strong, and they are all very focused on the task at hand.

“I can tell you that we are an extremely close knit group of people,” she said. “The girls that we are riding here with are second to none. They’re some of my closest friends. I’m just extremely thankful to have the group of people that we have here, and the vibe we have going is really fun.”

We have a huge girl crush on Quicklook V! #Rio2016 #JointheJourney #TwoHearts #equestrian #eventing

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 6, 2016 at 6:54am PDT

Kathryn Robinson and Let It Bee will be the first out after the lunch break for Canada at 1:30 local time/12:30 p.m. EST. We also have some heavy hitters coming up in this next group in Chris Burton and Santano II, William Fox-Pitt and Chilli Morning, and Tim Lips and Bayro. You can read up on their average scores in Maggie’s detailed dressage powerhouses analysis.

If you’re just tuning in to EN, you can catch up on what you’ve missed so far in our open thread at this link: http://bit.ly/RioDressageDay1. I’m also live tweeting ringside @eventingnation and adding photos to EN’s Instagram, so there are plenty of ways to follow along. And, of course, you can watch live!

#Rio2016: Website, Dressage Ride Times, Individual Scores, Team Scores, EN’s Ultimate Guide to Rio, How to Watch Live, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

Welcome to Eventing Nation’s comprehensive and interactive guide to the athletes and equines competing in eventing at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. We’ve scoured the Internet to bring you detailed information on each combination, including stats, breeding, recent results, analysis, current world ranking and more.

Click on each rider and horse’s name to see their FEI profiles, which list detailed event results and major accomplishments. For a horse’s full pedigree (when available), click “breeding,” and then click the individual sire and dam names to see detailed bloodlines, photos and other offspring via the Sport Horse Show and Breed Database.

(In cases of breeding information, some sire and dam discrepancies, as well as spelling variations, exist within the FEI database. We have provided links when available to to show bloodlines and have tried to list the most accurate information possible. If you spot any incorrect links, please shoot us an email.)

Chinch has also provided a handy guide to help you distinguish established world beaters and serious contenders from promising combinations and determined underdogs. Bookmark this page as a handy reference tool for the horses and riders representing their countries in Rio.

Be sure to click here to check out EN’s extensive coverage and previews of Rio so far. Go Eventing.

#Rio2016: Website, Order of Go, Schedule & Results, How to Watch Live, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

How to use Chinch’s guide:

    = Established world-beaters
   = Serious contenders
  = Promising combination
 = Determined underdogs

Quick links to each country: Australia | Belgium | Brazil | Canada | Chile | China | Ecuador | Finland | France | Germany | Great Britain | Ireland | Italy | Japan | Netherlands | New Zealand | Puerto Rico | Poland | Russia | Spain | Sweden | Switzerland | United States | Zimbabwe

  AUSTRALIA 

Chris Burton and Santano II
9-year-old black Hanoverian gelding owned by the Black Run Syndicate
Breeding: Sandro Hit X Bona Dea II, by Brentano II; bred in Germany by Anni Woeste
Recent Results: 1st, Saumur CCI3*; 14th, Belton CIC3*; 35th, Burnham Market CIC3*
Key Facts: Chris returns to the Olympic stage for a second time in his career, having also represented Australia on the team that finished sixth in London in 2012. Santano II has far less experience than his rider, having only completed one CCI3* in his career at Saumur in May. But Santano II won it in style with the fastest cross country round of the day. With speed largely expected to play a key role on cross country in Rio, these two will be an important pair to watch.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 2nd
Chinch Says:    

Sam Griffiths and Paulank Brockagh
13-year-old bay Irish Sport Horse mare owned by Mr. and Mrs. S Posford, Jules Carter and Sam Griffiths
Breeding: Touchdown X Calendar Girl, by Trigerrero; bred in Ireland by Frank and Paula Cullen
Recent Results: 21st, Barbury CIC2*; 29th, Badminton CCI4*; 21st, Belton CIC3*
Key Facts: “Brocks” amassed a huge fan club when she became the fourth mare to win Badminton in 2014, which gave her a spot on the 2014 Australian World Equestrian Games team that finished fourth in Normandy. This is Sam’s second Olympic Games, having also ridden for Australia in London in 2012, and his partnership is well established with this mare. With eight CCI3* and CCI4* completions under their belt, Sam and Brocks should be more than ready to impress in Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 82nd
Chinch Says:    

Shane Rose and CP Qualified
13-year-old grey Holsteiner gelding owned by Shane Rose and Elizabeth Wischer
Breeding: Quite Capitol X Mareike II, by Corofino I; bred in Germany by Reimer Haalck
Recent Results: 2nd, Aachen CICO3*; 1st, Melbourne CIC3*; 2nd, Sydney CIC3*
Key Facts: Shane returns to the Olympic stage for the second time, having helped Australia win a team silver medal in Beijing in 2008. Last year’s Adelaide CCI4* winner CP Qualified has been cleaning up at Australian events over the past season, but he recently proved he can also hold his own against the very best in the world with an impressive second-place finish at Aachen. That helped boost the Australia team to the win in the Nations Cup — just one more example of how on form the Aussies are right now. Also, this horse’s barn name is “Darcy.” LOVE <3
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 5th
Chinch Says:    

Stuart Tinney and Pluto Mio
18-year-old grey Thoroughbred/Hanoverian gelding owned by John and Elizabeth Pittard
Breeding: Daley K X Call on the Wind, by Al Mundhir; bred in Australia
Recent Results: 2nd, Melbourne CIC3*; 4th, Sydney CIC3*; 2nd, Albury CIC3* 
Key Facts: Stuart anchors the Australian team as the rider with the most experience, having previously competed in two Olympic Games in 2000 and 2004. He now rides in his third Olympics aboard Pluto Mio, with whom he finished 11th individually at the World Equestrian Games in 2014. The horse has only completed one CCI since WEG, finishing ninth at Adelaide last year, but his strength on cross country makes him a key asset to the team.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 47th
Chinch Says:   

 BELGIUM 

Karin Donckers and Fletcha van ‘T Verahof
11-year-old bay Belgian Warmblood gelding owned by Karin Donckers, Joris De Brabandere and Carl Bouckaert
Breeding: Vigo D’arsouilles X Southern Queen xx, by South Gale xx; bred in Belgium by Peter van Dame-de Smedt
Recent Results: 1st, Marbach CIC3*; 1st, Barroca d’Alva CCI3*
Key Facts: Karin makes her sixth Olympic appearance for Belgium in Rio riding lovely “Fletcha,” who impressed in his first CCI4* start as a 9-year-old at the 2014 WEG to finish in fifth place individually. The horse has racked up a series of notable wins since then, including two victories this year at Marbach and Barroca d’Alva with finishing scores in the 30s. When these two are on form, they are very tough to beat.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 13th
Chinch Says:    

Joris Van Springel and Lully Des Aulnes
17-year-old bay Selle Francais gelding owned by Joris Van Springel and Holtrust-Speerstra
Breeding: Doris Des Halles X Shadika, by Ightshade; bred in France by Andree Pienne
Recent Results: 8th, Marbach CIC3*; 3rd, Barroca d’Alva CIC3*
Key Facts: Joris makes his fourth Olympic appearance hunting for redemption with “Lully,” whom he retired on cross country in London in 2012. Since then these two have represented Belgium at two European Championships, which they completed with clear cross country runs, plus the 2014 WEG, where they unfortunately fell on cross country. One of Belgium’s most familiar combinations, Joris and Lully are one of two combinations individually representing their country.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 46th
Chinch Says:  

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 BRAZIL 

Marcio Appel and Iberon Jmen
14-year-old bay Brazilian-bred (BH) gelding owned by Samatha Tonello
Breeding: Indoctro X Landina Jmen, by Landino; bred in Brazil
Recent Results: 7th, Ribeirao Preto CIC2*
Key Facts: While his other teammates have competed in either the Olympics, World Equestrian Games or Pan American Games, Marcio is representing his county for the very first time at the Rio Olympics. This horse has one CCI3* under his belt from Barretos last fall, where he and Marcio finished fourth. They also competed in the Aquece Rio Olympic test event last year, so they know a bit about what to expect come cross country day in Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 110th
Chinch Says:  

Ruy Fonseca and Tom Bombadill Too
16-year-old dark bay Holsteiner gelding owned by Ruy Fonseca and Renata R. Costa
Breeding: Carry X Hannelore, by Sir Shostakovich; bred in Great Britain by Juergen Schimmer
Recent Results: 21st, Barbury Castle CIC3*; 11st, Wiesbaden CIC3*; 2nd, Barroca d’Alva CIC2*
Key Facts: Ruy is competing in the second Olympic Games of his career aboard the same horse in Tom Bombadill Too, with whom he finished 42nd individually in London in 2012. Since then Ruy and “Tommy” also completed the 2014 World Equestrian Games and won individual bronze and team silver at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto. They are one of a handful of pairs in the field competing in back-to-back Olympics.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 141st
Chinch Says:  

Marcio Carvalho Jorge and Lissy Mac Wayer
13-year-old black Westphalian mare owned by Marcio Carvalho Jorge, Ana Jorge, Emiliana Jorge and Olivia Jorge
Breeding: Laomedan X Pik Dame, by Pik Labionics; bred in Germany by Wilhelm Kreft
Recent Results: 5th, Barbury Castle CIC3*; 9th, Ballindenisk CCI3*; 10th, Red Hills CIC2*
Key Facts: Marcio, a doctor and anesthetist who also owns a rubber plantation, rode in his first Olympics for Brazil in 2012 and now makes his second appearance in his home country. Lissy Mac Wayer is a spicy little mare who competed in the U.S. over the winter (you might have seen her in the two-star at Red Hills!) before the Brazilian team went on to the UK to train with their coach Mark Todd. Lissy wowed us all with a stellar 32.5 dressage test in the Barbury leg of Event Rider Masters last month. If she can replicate that performance in Rio, watch out!
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 73rd
Chinch Says:  

Carlos Parro and Summon Up The Blood
11-year-old bay Thoroughbred gelding owned by Carlos Parro and Nicola Tootle
Breeding: Red Ransom X Diddyman, by Revoque; bred in Ireland
Recent Results: 18th, Barbury Castle CIC3*; 10th, Ballindenisk CCI3*; 45th, Burnham Market CIC3*
Key Facts: “Bob” is one of three off-track Thoroughbreds competing in Rio (and there are four in all if you count Donner as the U.S. traveling reserve!). He raced 13 times, including three wins in 2008, and competed in Retraining of Racehorses classes in the UK before Carlos took him on in 2011. We love a good OTTB success story! They have since completed CCI3* events at Boekelo and Ballindenisk. Carlos first competed in the Olympic Games in 2000 at Sydney and returns after a 16-year hiatus with the Games in his home country. We’ll be cheering extra loudly for these two.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 145th
Chinch Says:  

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 CANADA 

Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master
15-year-old bay Canadian Sport Horse gelding owned by Blithe Hill Stud
Breeding: Rodero X Legacy 3rd, by Eyes to Rule xx; bred in Canada by Caroline Bazley
Recent Results: 23rd, Barbury Castle CIC3*; 11th, Luhmühlen CIC3*; 6th, Chatsworth CIC3*
Key Facts: Rebecca and her longtime partner “Rupert” represented Canada at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington before going on to their first Olympic Games in London in 2012. While they didn’t complete there, they now have four more years of experience under their belts and have long been one of the top combinations in Canadian eventing. They have had several moments of brilliance across the three phases this season and now will look to package those performances together for an unforgettable result.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 464th
Chinch Says:   

Colleen Loach and Qorry Blue d’Argouges
12-year-old grey Selle Francais gelding owned by Peter Barry
Breeding: Mr. Blue X Hardie Du Bourg, by Count Ivor xx; bred in France by Jean-Luc Dufour
Recent Results: 14th, Great Meadow CICO3*; 2nd, Bromont CIC3*; 7th, Jersey Fresh CCI3*; 3rd, Fair Hill CIC3*; 27th, Carolina International CIC3*
Key Facts: Colleen made her team debut at the 2015 Pan American Games, piloting this horse to an eighth-place individual finish and helping Canada win team bronze. Now she makes her Olympic debut with “Qorry,” a horse she has competed since 2013 and knows extremely well. While he’s green to the level with just one CCI3* under his belt at Jersey Fresh in May, Qorry’s game attitude to cross country and Colleen’s confident riding will help these two to a solid team performance for Canada.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 103rd
Chinch Says:  

Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance
11-year-old dark bay Thoroughbred/Trakehner mare owned by Don and Anita Leschied
Breeding: A Fine Romance X Samland Furstin, by Donaufurst; bred in Canada by Don and Anita Leschied
Recent Results: 22nd, Great Meadow CICO3*; 6th, Jersey Fresh CIC3*; 20th, The Fork CIC3*; 14th, Red Hills CIC3*
Key Facts: Jessica’s road to Rio has been a bumpy one, as she was initially not named to the team but successfully lodged an appeal to claim her spot. Having competed in the 2012 London Olympics, two WEGs and three Pan American Games, Jessica is one of Canada’s most prolific event riders, and that experience will go a long a way in helping Canada deliver a strong performance in Rio. This little mare, affectionately known as “Blue Eyes,” may not be fond of dressage, but she is all heart when it comes to the jumping phases.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 67th
Chinch Says:  

Kathryn Robinson and Let It Bee
15-year-old black Westphalian gelding owned by Kathryn Robinson
Breeding: Lamerto H X Baroness, by Brentano II; bred in Germany by Hubert Brinkmann
Recent Results: 9th, Luhmühlen CIC3*; 37th, Badminton CCI4*; 7th, Barroca d’Alva CCI3*; 23rd, Barroca d’Alva CIC2*
Key Facts: Kathryn Robinson’s road to Rio has been a long one. Originally named to the team prior to the public announcement, she was bumped to the traveling reserve slot after Jessica Phoenix successfully appealed for a spot on the squad. When Selena O’Hanlon was forced to withdraw Foxwood High during Canadian team training camp, Kathryn was once again placed on the team. These two dazzled in dressage last year in their team debut for Canada at the Pan American Games before taking a tumble early on cross country, so Kathryn will be out to prove that she belongs on the world stage.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 728th
Chinch Says:  

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 CHILE 

Carlos Lobos Muñoz and Ranco
12-year-old chestnut Chilean-bred gelding owned by Ejercito de Chile (the Chilean Army)
Breeding: Unlisted
Recent Results: 1st, Quillota CIC3*; 1st, Quillota CCI3*; 1st, Quillota CIC3*
Key Facts: The Olympic Games are special for many reasons, but the stories that perhaps touch our hearts most deeply are ones like this. Carlos and Ranco have long been Chile’s top eventing combination, and now they will represent this emerging eventing nation on the world stage. This is an experienced and accomplished pair, having secured a top-10 finish at the Guadalajara Pan American Games in 2011 and fifth place at the Toronto Pan Ams last year. They won Chile’s Quillota CCI3* in May to earn their ticket to the Olympics, and you can be sure there will be many cheers of “CARLOOOOS!” come cross country day in Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 113th
Chinch Says:   

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 CHINA 

Alex Hua Tian and Don Geniro
9-year-old chestnut Hanoverian gelding owned by Alex Hua Tian, Pip Higgins, Pam Dews and Sarah Higgins
Breeding: Don Kennedy X Gina, by Giorgione; bred in Great Britain by Pam Dews
Recent Results: 1st, Bramham CIC3*; 30th, Chatsworth CIC3*; 4th, Ballindenisk CICO3*; 23rd, Fontainebleau CIC2*
Key Facts: These two delivered a seriously impressive showing in the Event Rider Masters leg at Bramham in June, putting in three solid phases to take the win in a stacked field. This horse is green to the level, with only one CCI3* completion on his resume at Boekelo last fall, but he has talent in spades. Alex is a lovely, classically correct rider who has long made headlines as China’s top event rider. Look for them to shine while the world is watching.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 174th
Chinch Says:   

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 ECUADOR 

Nicolas Wettstein and Nadeville Merze
15-year-old bay Selle Francais gelding owned by Nicolas Wettstein and Monique Deyme
Breeding: If de Merze X Baronne de Chanes, by Maestro du Manoir; bred in France by Marc Dedeville
Recent Results: 29th, Saumur CIC2*; 6th, Barroca d’Alva CCI3*
Key Facts: Nicolas represented Ecuador at the 2014 WEG and competed in two Pan American Games; he now makes his Olympic debut. Born in Switzerland but with three different passports to his name, Nicolas represented Switzerland for 10 years before switching to ride for Ecuador in 2011. His mother, Monique Deyme, competed internationally in eventing in the 1980s and now runs the family’s Framoni Stud in France, which breeds the horses Nicolas competes. He rode his family’s homebred Nadeville Merze at WEG in 2010 and now makes his Olympic debut with “Nadou.”
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 402nd
Chinch Says:  

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 FRANCE 

Karim Florent Laghouag and Entebbe de Hus
11-year-old black Hanoverian stallion owned by Agnès Celerier and Michel Duros
Breeding: Embassy I X Cita, by Carbid; bred in Germany by ZG Horst and Jeannine Petersen
Recent Results: 3rd, Chatsworth CIC3*
Key Facts: This horse has been campaigned very lightly this season, but don’t think for a second this combination won’t be bringing their A-game in Rio. Karim and Entebbe de Hus are a formidable combination more than capable of delivering in all three phases. They finished fifth last fall in the horse’s CCI4* debut at Pau on a 42.3, and they are one of the combinations in the field who pose a threat to complete on a final score in the 30s. This horse is especially lovely on the flat — try to watch his dressage test if you can!
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 35th
Chinch Says:  

Mathieu Lemoine on Bart L
10-year-old bay Dutch gelding owned by Pierre Defrance and Jerome Pechenard
Breeding: United X Parisma, by Gribaldi; bred in the Netherland by Afferden H. Litjens
Recent Results: 5th, Chatsworth CIC3*
Key Facts: While this horse has also been campaigned lightly this season, he’s yet another weapon in France’s arsenal. Mathieu and Bart boosted the French team to a bronze medal finish in last year’s grueling FEI European Championships at Blair Castle, and they’re another combination that can deliver a very low final finishing score. They’ve been trending lower on the flat in each of their FEI appearances for the past two years. If that trend continues, they have a very good shot at cracking the 30s come dressage in Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 76th
Chinch Says:   

Astier Nicolas and Piaf De B’Neville
13-year-old bay Selle Francis gelding owned by Ben et Partner
Breeding: Cap de b’Neville X Homelie III, by Reve d’Elle; bred in France by Jean-Baptiste Thiebot
Recent Results: 1st, Chatsworth CIC3*; 13th, Belton CIC3*
Key Facts: The French team members have all deployed the same strategy of a light season for their Olympic hopefuls, and while we haven’t seen Piaf De B’Neville out much this year, he’s still had some memorable outings. Most notably, Astier and Piaf De B’Neville won the Chatsworth leg of Event Rider Masters on 45.0. They are yet another French combination that can score in the 30s on the flat and remain competitive across the two jumping phases. If you’re not sensing a trend yet, here’s a hint: France is poised to play spoiler in Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 17th
Chinch Says:   

Thibaut Valette and Qing Du Briot
12-year-old bay Selle Francais gelding owned by L’institut Français du Cheval et de l’Equitation
Breeding: Eolien II X Henriette, by Etalon OR; bred in France by Claude Bardon, Patrice Planchat, Liliane Bardon and Patricia Bardon Planchat
Recent Results: 2nd, Chatsworth CIC3*
Key Facts: At the fear of sounding like a broken record, here is one more super talented pair for France. Thibaut and Qing Du Briot took individual and team bronze at least fall’s European Championships and looked very strong in their sole FEI outing at the Event Rider Masters leg of Chatsworth this year. Thibaut is poised for a very impressive performance in his Olympic debut for France.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 127th
Chinch Says:   

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 FINLAND 

Elmo Jankari and Duchess Desiree
11-year-old black Oldenburg mare owned by Aino and Elmo Jankari
Breeding: Don Primero X Aronja, by Noble Roi xx; bred in Germany by Wilhelm Wehrmann
Recent Results: 5th, Wiesbaden CIC3*; 26th, Fontainebleau CICO3*
Key Facts: Elmo and Duchess Desiree won the Young Rider European Championships at Jardy in 2013 and went on to compete in their first senior championship at WEG in 2014. While they didn’t compete the cross country course in Normandy, they are back with a vengeance in their Olympic debut. They finished sixth in the CCI3* at Strzegom last year and have all the pieces to put in a solid performance in Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 252nd
Chinch Says:  

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 GREAT BRITAIN 

William Fox-Pitt and Chilli Morning
16-year-old chestnut Brandenburg stallion owned by Christopher Stone
Breeding: Phantomic X Koralle, by Kolibri; bred in Germany by Rainer Schicketanz
Recent Results: 9th, Bramham CIC3*; 11th, Chatsworth CIC3*
Key Facts: One of the great comeback stories of this Olympic Games surely must be William’s battle to return to the top of the sport following his frightening fall at Le Lion d’ Angers last year. “Chilli” is no stranger to the upper echelons of the sport, having won individual bronze and team silver at WEG in 2014, as well as winning Badminton CCI4* last year. William makes his fifth Olympic appearance for Britain in Rio, and EN will be cheering loudly!
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 43rd
Chinch Says:    

Kitty King on Ceylor L A N
9-year-old bay Dutch gelding owned by Diane Bown, Jacqueline Owen and Samantha Wilson
Breeding: Veron X Winanda L A N, by Ahorn; bred in the Netherlands by Workum R. Lycklama A Nijeholt
Recent Results: 4th, Bramham CIC3*; 17th, Chatsworth CIC3*; 8th, Belton CIC3*; 11th, Burnham Market CIC3*
Key Facts: With top-10 placings at Le Lion d’Angers in 2013 and 2014, Ceylor L A N has been on the Team GB radar for several years now. Top places at key CIC3* events this spring secured his place on the Olympic team. While he’s a young horse at 9, he already has two impressive CCI3* finishes under his belt, placing third at Blenheim and first at Tattersalls last year. Ceylor scored a 32.9 on the flat at Chatsworth in May. If he can come close to replicating that, Kitty will be well on her way to a top finish in her Olympic debut.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 38th
Chinch Says:   

Gemma Tattersall and Quicklook V
11-year-old grey Anglo-European mare owned by the Pebbles Syndicate
Breeding: Urkel X Unabresse M, by Quick Star; bred in Great Britain by Vicky Gosling and Vicky Hart
Recent Results: 7th, Bramham CIC3*; 4th, Chatsworth CIC3*; 25th, Belton CIC3*; 43rd, Fontainebleau CICO3*
Key Facts: The fact that Quicklook V’s barn name is Pebbles is reason enough to cheer for her, but she’s also amassed a number of top placings that prove she’s a forced to be reckoned with in Rio. This mare is a joy to watch on the flat, and she can match her talent in that phase with two solid jumping performances.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 8th
Chinch Says:   

Pippa Funnell and Billy the Biz
11-year-old grey Anglo-European gelding owned by Carol Toliver and William Funnell
Breeding: Cevin Z x Little Miss Prim, by Coevers; bred in Great Britain by D Barnwell
Recent Results: 3rd Bramham, CIC3*; 1st, Ballindenisk CCI3*; 3rd, Burgham CIC3*
Key Facts: The one and only Pippa Funnell hardly needs an introduction, but let’s run through her accolades anyways. She helped Britain win team silver medals at both the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games, plus won individual bronze with Primmore’s Pride in 2004. Add in WEG and European Championship medals and she’s one of the most highly decorated British eventers still actively competing. She rides Billy the Biz in Rio, a horse that won Ballindenisk CCI3* on a 38.8 in April. Watch for them to be extremely competitive in Brazil.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 19th
Chinch Says:   

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 GERMANY 

Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Louvo
14-year-old chestnut Selle Francais gelding owned by Sandra Auffarth and Deutsches Olympiade Komitee
Breeding: Shogoun II X Vanille du Tertre, by J’T’Adore; bred in France by Yves Berlioz
Recent Results: 3rd, Fontainebleau CICO3*; 1st, Luhmühlen CIC3*
Key Facts: If you’ve been reading this preview horse-by-horse so far, you’re probably sitting on the edge of your seat by now. We’re getting into the thick of it now with Sandra and Opgun Louvo, who won individual bronze and team gold at the 2012 London Olympics, plus individual and team gold at the 2014 WEG. Did we mention they’ve also won individual silver and team gold at the last two European Championships? These two are nearly a lock to clinch at individual medal; only the color is in question.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 30th
Chinch Says:    

Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW
16-year-old bay German Sport Horse gelding owned by Jung Family, Erich Single, Joachim Jung and DOKR
Breeding: Stan the Man xx X Halla, by Heraldik xx; bred in Germany by Günter Seitter
Recent Results: 6th, Aachen CICO3*; 1st, Badminton CCI4*; 1st, Fontainebleau CICO3*
Key Facts: This horse was not Michael’s first choice for Rio. I report: Michael did not want to take the reigning Olympic champion to Rio. But his hands were tied once fischerTakinou contracted a virus, and now we all wait with baited breath to see if Michael and Sam will join Charles Pahud de Mortanges and Marcroix and Mark Todd and Charisma as the third combination in Olympic history to take back-to-back gold medals. Can they do it? Considering Sam won Burghley last fall and Badminton this spring, which helped Michael become the second rider in history to take the Rolex Grand Slam, we say yes.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 1st
Chinch Says:    

Ingrid Klimke and Horseware Hale Bob
12-year-old bay Oldenburg gelding owned by Ingrid Klimke and Andreas Busacker
Breeding: Helikon xx X Goldige, by Noble Champion; bred in Germany by Rolf Lueck
Recent Results: 3rd, Aachen CICO3*; 2nd, Luhmühlen CIC3*; 1st Wiesbaden CIC3*
Key Facts: These two laid down a 27.3 on the flat at Wiesbaden this spring. I REPEAT: 27.3. As if the German team wasn’t already formidable enough with the reigning Olympic and WEG champions in Michael and Sandra, Ingrid is waiting in the wings to stamp her own name in the eventing history books. While she has two Olympic team gold medals, Ingrid has never won an individual medal on this stage. There is a very good chance that will change in Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 29th
Chinch Says:    

Julia Krajewski and Samourai Du Thot
10-year-old Selle Francais gelding owned by DOKR
Breeding: Milor Landais X Melitos du Thot, by Flipper d’Elle; bred in France by Jean-Francois Noel
Recent Results: 3rd, Luhmühlen CCI4*; 1st, Renswoude CIC3* 
Key Facts: Julia and Samourai Du Thot were called in to replace Andreas Ostholt and So Is Et after the first horse inspection, as the originally named horse lost a shoe at team training camp and had been unsound. This reserve combination speaks to the depth of the German program; they’re proven to be dangerous in the sandbox, with scores in the 30s all spring, dependable cross country, and careful over the show jumps. Andreas’ late withdrawal is unfortunate, but we’re glad to see this 27-year-old rising star being given the chance to help her country defend Olympic gold.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 27th 
Chinch Says:   

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 ITALY 

Stefano Brecciaroli and Apollo Van De Wendi Kurt Hoeve
16-year-old bay Belgian gelding owned by Maria Giovanna Mazzochi 
Breeding: Polidiktus Van de Helle X Naewshit van Wendijkurt, by Township xx; bred in Belgium by Gilberto op de Beeck
Recent Results: 8th, Strzegom CICO3*; 4th, Dunakeszi CIC3*
Key Facts: Stefano and Apollo put themselves at the front of the leaderboard after dressage at the London Olympics with a beautiful test that scored 38.5. They now return for their second Olympics together, and the fourth Games of Stefano’s career, as the anchor combination on the Italian team.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 37th
Chinch Says:   

Luca Roman and Castlewoods Jake
12-year-old bay Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Luca Roman and Giacinta della Chiesa
Breeding: Ricardo Z X Tara Elegance, by Senang Hati; bred in Ireland by Seamus Farrell
Recent Results: 14th, Saumur CCI3*
Key Facts: This pair has completed CCI3* events together, improving their final placing each time. They most recently finished 14th at Saumur in May and put in a personal best dressage test at the European Championships last fall. There’s a ton of potential here! It’s also worth noting that Luca is competing on the team with his brother Pietro.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 271st
Chinch Says:   

Pietro Roman and Barraduff
14-year-old grey Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Antonella Ascoli
Breeding: Carroll House X Crested Vesta VII, by Sea Crest; bred in Ireland
Recent Results: 7th, Strzegom CICO3*; Montelibretti CCI3*
Key Facts: Pietro and Barraduff put in a personal best dressage score of 41.9 at the European Championships last fall before being eliminated on cross country. They’re now hunting for redemptionn in their second senior appearance and first Olympics for the Italian team. His father Federico Roman won individual gold in the 1980 Olympics, which boosted the Italian team to a silver medal. That has to be good luck, right?
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 86th
Chinch Says:   

Arianna Schivo and Querfira De L’Ormeau
12-year-old bay Selle Francais mare owned by Arianna Schivo and Thomas Bouquet
Breeding: Iolisco de Quinhon X Isabella du Brulot, by Beausejour IV; bred in France by Alexandra Palardy
Recent Results: 25th, Fontainebleau CICO3*
Key Facts: These two made their team debut for Italy at least fall’s European Championships at Blair Castle, where they finished 28th with a clear cross country trip. Arianna and Querfira De L’Ormeau make their Olympic debut with plenty of experience, having completed four CCI4* events together. They finished seventh in the CCI3* at Ravenna last fall, plus delivered a very solid 23rd-place finish in a stacked Bramham CCI3* field last year, and definitely deserve to be in Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 409th
Chinch Says:   

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  IRELAND 

Clare Abbott and Euro Prince
13-year-old chestnut Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Cormac McKay
Breeding: Lougheries Quiet Man X Miss Tullydraw; bred in Ireland by Cormac McKay
Recent Results: 6th, Tattersalls CIC3*; 11th, Belton CIC3*; 32nd, Fontainebleau CICO3*
Key Facts: Clare and Euro Prince made their team debut in the 2013 European Championships in Malmö in 2013 and went on to represent Ireland at the 2014 WEG, where they did not complete cross country. With two more years to polish their performance, they’ve emerged as a top combination for Ireland, completing both Badminton and Pau with fast and clear cross country rounds last year. Look for this pair to shine for Ireland in their Olympic debut.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 105th
Chinch Says:   

Jonty Evans and Cooley Rorkes Drift
10-year-old bay Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Fiona Elliott and Jonty Evans
Breeding: Courage II X Doon-A-Ree Lass, by Rachelle Comet xx; bred in Ireland by William McCarrison
Recent Results: 13th, Barbury Castle CIC2*; 3rd, Tattersalls CIC3*; 10th, Chatsworth CIC3*; 11th, Fontainebleau CICO3*
Key Facts: Jonty competed for Ireland in the 2005 European Championships at Blenheim and now returns to the world stage in his first Olympic appearance. “Art” is an exciting horse for Jonty, one he’s produced from a young horse with very promising results. While the horse is still green to the level with one CCI3* completion at Boekelo last fall, he can deliver across all three phases and is definitenly one to watch, both for Rio and the future.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 90th
Chinch Says:   

Mark Kyle and Jemilla
10-year-old bay British Sport Horse mare owned by Richard and Shelagh Morley and Mark Kyle
Breeding: Mill Law X Jessica XIX, by Louella Maschallah; bred in Great Britain by S. Morley
Recent Results: 4th, Tattersalls CIC3*; 5th, Chatsworth CIC3*; 12th, Belton CIC3*
Key Facts: Mark has been a mainstay of Irish teams for two decades now, and it’s exciting to see him making his third Olympic appearance. He rides Jemilla, a lovely mare that put herself on the map with a fifth-place finish at Saumur last year. While she only has one CCI3* start on her resume, she’s never finished outside the top 20 in any of her six starts at the three-star level. What she lacks in experiences she makes up with talent.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 188th
Chinch Says:   

Padraig McCarthy and Simon Porloe
16-year-old bay Polish-bred gelding owned by Christopher and Sarita Perkins and Lucy and Padraig Mc Carthy
Breeding: Sofix X Babilonia, by Czubaryk; bred in Poland by NK Nowa Wioska
Recent Results: 10th, Barbury Castle CIC2*; 1st, Tattersalls CIC3*; 23rd, Chatsworth CIC3*; 23rd Belton CIC3*
Key Facts: Padraig has to be one of the most exciting stories in eventing at Rio. He competed in pure show jumping before making his eventing debut in 2013, and then got the call up to his first Irish team at the European Championships last fall. While he didn’t complete there, he comes into Rio for his first Olympics after a hot streak of a spring with Simon Porloe, who brings a wealth of experience to the table as a previous ride of Lucy Wiegersma, Padraig’s wife. These two are living the dream!
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 48th
Chinch Says:   

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 JAPAN 

Yoshiaki Oiwa and Calle 44
9-year-old bay Holsteiner gelding owned by Yoshiaki Oiwa and Taeko Oiwa
Breeding: Cristo x Sara IV, by Quebec; bred in Germany by Lutz Dechau
Recent Results: 30th, Bramham CCI3*; 22nd, Renswoude CIC3*; 6th, Kreuth CIC2*; 2nd, Barroca d’Alva CCI*; 7th, Barroca d’Alva CIC*
Key Facts: This pair just squeaked into the Olympic Games, securing a CCI3* qualifying score at Bramham in June to shore up a spot in Rio. While Calle 44 is green to the level, Yoshiaki has plenty of experience representing Japan on the world stage, having competed in two WEGs and two Olympic Games.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 78th
Chinch Says:  

Ryuzo Kijajima and Just Chocolate
14-year-old chestnut New Zealand-bred gelding owned by Riding Club Crane
Breeding: Unknown; bred in New Zealand
Recent Results: 22nd, Barbury Castle CIC2*; 19th, Bramham CIC3*; 23rd, Bicton CIC2*; 9th, Barroca d’Alva CCI3*; 6th, Barroca d’Alva CIC2*
Key Facts: New Zealand’s Donna Smith produced this lovely horse through the CCI3* level before Ryuzo took over the ride in 2014. Since then they competed on the silver medal team at the 2014 Asian Games in Korea and secured a place in Rio with a top-10 finish in the Barroca d’Alva CCI3* in Portgual earlier this year.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 143rd
Chinch Says:  

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 NETHERLANDS 

Merel Blom and Rumour Has It
13-year-old bay Holsteiner gelding owned by J.M.J. Blom and M.C. Blom-Muilwijk
Breeding: Esteban X Onara, by Candillo; bred in Germany by Arndt Werner
Recent Results: 27th, Marbach CIC3*; 41st, Fontainebleau CICO3*
Key Facts: Merel competed Rumour Has It on the Dutch team that win bronze at the 2014 WEG and now makes her Olympic debut with her longtime partner. This horse is a cross country machine, and that talent helps him pull through in tough team scenarios. He also competed on the Dutch team at the European Championships at Blair Castle last fall, where he battled through a grueling cross country and ultimately finished 20th individually. Rio should be smooth sailing for this pair.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 165th
Chinch Says:   

Tim Lips and Bayro
10-year-old grey Dutch gelding owned by Lips Stables, H.Meulendijks, C.v. Ham, N. v. Splunder, and W. Holvoet
Breeding: Casantos x Vanya, by Corland; bred in the Netherlands by H.W.J. van den Bosch
Recent Results: 3rd, Luhmühlen CIC3*; 6th, Marbach CIC3*
Key Facts: Tim makes his third Olympic appearance aboard Bayro and will look to best his previous top Olympic performance from 2008, when he finished 15th on Concrex Oncarlos. Bayro has emerged as Tim’s newest superstar, finishing seventh at Luhmühlen CCI4* and 11th at Pau CCI4* last year. These two are fully capable of finishing on a score in the low 40s and contributing to a top performance for the Dutch team, which won bronze at WEG 2014.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 75th
Chinch Says:  

Alice Naber-Lozeman and Peter Parker
14-year-old bay Thoroughbred gelding owned bu R. Van Reine and R. Koornstra
Breeding: I’m Supposin X Formula One Affair, by Four Burrow; bred in the Netherlands by J. and S. Somner
Recent Results: 10th, Saumur CCI3*; 34th, Fontainebleau CICO3*
Key Facts: Alice has competed on three European Championships teams for the Dutch and now makes her Olympic debut with Peter Parker, her longtime partner who she produced through the levels. A very experienced combination, they’ve completed five CCI3* events, most noticeably finishing 10th at Saumur in May.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 75th
Chinch Says:   

Theo van de Vendel and Zindane
12-year-old bay Dutch gelding owned by T. van de Vendel, J.J. van de Vendel and G.J. van de Vendel
Breeding: Kreator X Oriflame, by Kingston; bred in the Netherlands by E. Klaassens
Recent Results: 24th, Luhmühlen CIC3*
Key Facts: Theo and Zindane made their Dutch team debut at last fall’s European Championships at Blair Castle, finishing 22nd individually. This is their first Olympic Games, and Theo and Zindane bring a solid amount of experience to the table with three CCI completions under their belts, including Bramham and Boekelo.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 1,710th
Chinch Says:  

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 NEW ZEALAND 

Clarke Johnstone and Balmoral Sensation
12-year-old grey New Zealand Warmblood gelding owned by the Johnstone Family
Breeding: Senator VDL x Aberzanne, by Aberlou; bred in New Zealand by David Goodin
Recent Results: 5th, Badminton CCI4*; 12th, Belton CIC3*; 1st, Hastings CIC3*
Key Facts: Clarke made his team debut for New Zealand in the 2010 WEG at Lexington, where he helped the Kiwis take team bronze. He now makes his Olympic debut in Rio aboard “Ritchie,” a horse Donna Smith took to the CCI3* level in 2013 before Clarke took over the ride. While we usually see him compete in New Zealand, Clarke proved he can be competitive wth the very best in the world at Badminton this spring, where he piloted Ritchie to an impressive fifth-place finish to seal their bid for Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 28th
Chinch Says:   

Jonelle Price and Faerie Dianimo
11-year-old grey British Sport Horse mare owned by Trisha Rickards, Jacky Green and Jonelle Price
Breeding: Dimaggio X Faerie Dazzler VII, by Catherston Dazzler; bred in Great Britain by Trisha Rickards
Recent Results: 7th, Aachen CICO3*; 3rd, Bramham CIC3*; 16th, Chatsworth CIC3*
Key Facts: Jonelle rode on the bronze medal Kiwi team in her first Olympics at London in 2012 with Flinstar, and now she returns for her second Olympics with Faerie Dianimo. Affectionately known as “Maggie May,” this talented mare finished second on 32.8 in the CCI4* at Luhmühlen last year, showing just how low she can go on the scoreboard. They’re coming off a top-10 finish at Aachen CICO3* last month, where Jonelle and Maggie May scored 35.3 on the flat, so they’re coming in hot to Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 20th
Chinch Says:   

Tim Price and Ringwood Sky Boy
13-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Robert Taylor, Varenna Allen, Tim Price and Selwood.com.
Breeding: Courage II X Sky Lassie, by Sky Boy; bred in Ireland by Myles Mahon
Recent Results: 4th, Luhmühlen CCI4*; 5th, Tattersalls CIC3*
Key Facts: Following the first horse inspection, traveling reserve Tim and Ringwood Sky Boy replaced Jock and Clifton Lush on New Zealand’s team due to a cut on the horse’s cheek. Nothing has been certain for Tim on his road to Rio; when his top Olympic prospect, Wesko, incurred a soft-tissue injury in April, he was forced to re-hang his hopes on the less experienced Bango and Ringwood Sky Boy. Ringwood Sky Boy earned himself a ticket to Brazil with some impressive spring finishes, most recently a fourth-place in the Luhmühlen CCI4*. Now they’re being called upon in the 11th hour, and they will no doubt roll with the punches and step up the plate. 
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 4th
Chinch Says:   

Mark Todd and Leonidas II
12-year-old bay Holsteiner gelding owned by Diane Brunsden, Peter Cattell and Mark Todd
Breeding: Landos X Nairobi III, by Parco xx; bred in Germany by Gabriele Pochhammer
Recent Results: 26th, Barbury Castle CIC3*; 4th, Badminton CCI4*; 7th, Belton CIC3*
Key Facts: A true legend of the sport, Toddy will compete in his seventh Olympic Games in Rio, where he has the opportunity to add another individual gold medal to the two he already has to his name. He also rode Leonidas II in the last major championships for New Zealand at WEG in 2014, where they did not complete Pierre Michelet’s cross country course. Now they’re back to tackle another Pierre course in Rio. With top-10 finishes at both Burghley and Badminton in the last year, we like their chances.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 6th
Chinch Says:    

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 POLAND 

Pawel Spisak and Banderas
9-year-old chestnut Polish-bred gelding owned by Marek Jodko
Breeding: Moravia X Babilonia xx, by Jape xx; bred in Poland by Roman Drabinski
Recent Results: 19th, Strzegom CICO3*; 3rd, Baborowko CCI3*; 2nd, Sopot CIC2*; 19th, Barroca d’Alva CIC*
Key Facts: Pawel is a familiar face for Poland on the Olympic stage, having competed in the last three Olympic Games. He rides Banderas in his fourth Olympics, a horse he’s produced from a youngster. They completed one of their three career CCI3* attempts to qualify for Rio, finishing second in the CCI3* at Sopot last fall. Banderas can produce good marks on the flat, though their scores tend to vary widely.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 61st
Chinch Says:  

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 PUERTO RICO 

Lauren Billys and Castle Larchfield Purdy
14-year-old bay Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by the Purdy Syndicate, CCC and Lauren Billys
Breeding: Karistos X Hallo Purdy, by Hallo; bred in Ireland
Recent Results: 32nd, Great Meadow CICO3*; 1st, Twin Rivers CIC3*; 2nd, Fresno CIC2*
Key Facts: You know we have to cheer extra loud for California girl Lauren Billys! In competing at the Olympics, Lauren has realized her longtime dream of representing Puerto Rico on the biggest world stage. These two already understand the pressure of competing in a major championships, having competed in the Pan American Games in Toronto last year, where they finished 18th individually. Since then they delivered a top-10 finish in the Galway Downs CCI3* last fall, plus a win in the Twin Rivers CIC3* this spring. Look for Purdy to shine in Rio!
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 212th
Chinch Says:  

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 RUSSIA 

Aleksandr Markov and Kurfurstin
13-year-old Dutch mare owned by Ekaterina Voronova and Daria Selivanenko
Breeding: Carpalo X Midnight, by Frederick; bred in Germany
Recent Results: 23rd, Luhmühlen CIC3*; 24th, Houghton Hall CICO3*-NC 
Key Facts: Aleksandr is among the three Russian eventing athletes who got last minute (literally, Thursday afternoon) official clearance to compete at the Olympics. In July the IOC had declared that Russian athletes would only be accepted as eligible if they met a set of stringent criteria, including individual analysis of each athlete’s individual anti-doping record. Despite what was surely a stressful and uncertain leadup to the games, Aleksandr spent the spring preparing his horse in the UK and had clear cross-country runs at both Luhmühlen and Houghton Hall with dressages scores on either edge of 50. 
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 63rd
Chinch Says:    

Evgeniya Ovchinnikova and Orion
10-year-old grey Halfbred gelding owned by Sergey Popov 
Breeding: Orion X Oktava, by Tsitr; bred in Russia
Recent Results: 3rd, Ratomka Minsk CIC3*
Key Facts: Eventing competition isn’t the stiffest in Russia; at Orion’s last FEI outing, the CIC3* at Ratomka Minsk, a dressage score of 46.9, 25.2 time faults cross country and 16 show jumping faults — a final score of 88.10 — was good enough for third place. That was their only spring FEI outing, and they retired cross country at their fall CCI3* at Vladikavkaz. They’ve had some solid results at the level, too, and will be looking to draw on those experiences and a bit of luck in Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 305th 
Chinch Says:  

Andrey Mitin and Gurza
9-year-old Trakehner mare owned by Osman Kupeev and Ilya Durasov
Breeding: Kwazimodo X Gabonya, by Bant; bred in Russia
Recent Results: 6th, Ratomka Minsk CIC3*
Key Facts: Andrey and Gurza too have had only one FEI outing this spring at Ratomka Minsk. They added nearly 50 cross country time penalties and 12 show jumping faults to their dressage score of 45.8 to finish sixth on a final score of 106.2. Their record shows some hits and some misses, but like their Russian teammates, after so much uncertainty they’re likely happy just to be in Rio win, lose or draw!
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 55th
Chinch Says:  

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 SPAIN 

Albert Hermoso Farras and Hito CP
14-year-old bay Anglo-Arabian stallion owned by Antonio Campos Peña
Breeding: Nino X Chiclanera, by Diarikal; bred in Spain by Antonio Campos Peña
Recent Results: 1st, Madrid CIC2*; 4th, Montelibretti CCI3*
Key Facts: This pair retired cross country at their last spring FEI outing, the Luhmühlen CIC3*, which isn’t the most confidence inspiring note to ride into a major world championship upon. This pair has grit, though, and has completed two CCI4*s — Badminton and Pau — as well as the 2014 WEG in Normandy. 
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 53rd
Chinch Says:   
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 SWEDEN 

Frida Andersen and Herta
14-year-old Swedish Warmblood mare owned by Andersén Fälttävlanscentrum
Breeding: Cortus X Herica, by Krius xx; bred in Sweden by Andersén Fälttävlanscentrum
Recent Results: 1st, Strömsholm CIC2*; 3rd, Marbach CIC3*; 31st, Fontainebleau CIC3O3*-NC
Key Facts: Sweden is one of eight countries that will field full teams in all three Olympic equestrian disciplines, the others being Australia, Brazil, France, Great Britain, Germany, the Netherlands and the United States. Rio will be the first Olympic Games for Frida and Herta, a pair that hasn’t had a cross country jump penalty at an FEI event since the horse’s first CCI1* in 2008. They won’t win the dressage and they tend to collect a rail or two in the show jumping, but their confirmed record cross country will make them an asset to their team, and the Olympic Games are a fitting feather in the hat of this long partnership.  
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 385th
Chinch Says:   

Linda Algotsson and Fairnet
10-year-old Swedish Warmblood stallion owned by Margareta and Bo Christer Algotsson
Breeding: Feliciano X Fairlisia, by Dalby Jaguar xx; bred in Sweden by Margareta Algotsson
Recent Results: 15th, Saumur CCI3*; 3rd, Sopot CIC3*; 10th, Luhmühlen CIC3* 
Key Facts: Anna Nilsson and Luron, who were originally named to the Sweden Olympic squad, did not present at the first horse inspection. In their place: traveling reserve combination Linda (teammate Sara Algotsson Ostholt’s older sister) and Fairnet. This stallion tends to be solid cross country, usually adding some time and a rail or two to his score. The Olympic Games would be a great time for it all to come together for this pair.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 71st 
Chinch Says:   

Sara Algotsson Ostholt and Reality 39
12-year-old Hannoverian mare owned by Sara Algotsson Ostholt and Sara Sjoborg-Wik
Breeding: Rabino X Peppels, by Prince Thatch xx; bred in Germany by Hans Brüning
Recent Results: 5th, Marbach CIC3*; 17th, Fontainebleau CICO3*-NC
Key Facts: Sara comes into Rio as the reigning individual silver medalist, earned riding Wega in London in 2012. That year she was the leader going into individual show jumping, having added nothing to her dressage score of 39.3 through team show jumping, but a felled rail in the second round relegated her to silver and bumped Michael Jung and Sam to the top of the podium. Can she add another medal to her collection in Rio? Her mount this go-round, Reality 39, is capable of a dressage score in the 30s but is less consistent in the jumping than Wega, typically collecting a bit of time and a rail or two.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 186th
Chinch Says:   

Ludwig Svennerstal and Aspe
8-year-old Holsteiner mare owned by Håkan Svennerstål AB
Breeding: Singulord Joter X Ramatuelle, by Levernois; bred in Germany by Thomas May
Recent Results: 10th, Strzegom CICO3*-NC; 18th, Saumur CCI3*; 59th, Belton CIC3*; 15th, Burnham Market CIC3*
Key Facts: Besides Sara, Ludwig played the next biggest role in leading Sweden to team silver at the 2012 Games in London. He and Shamwari (who went on to place seventh at the 2014 WEG with Boyd Martin) finished just outside the top 10 after team show jumping and ended up 20th overall. His 2016 mount Aspe is young and relatively inexperienced — she has only three CIC3* and one CCI3* under her belt — but has a spotless FEI cross country record and an experienced rider in the tack.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 85th
Chinch Says:   

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 SWITZERLAND 

Ben Vogg and Noe Des Vatys
15-year-old Anglo Arab gelding owned by Ben and Jurgen Vogg and Maurice Perret
Breeding: Tresor Du Renom X Tempete Guichoise, by Cap Martin; bred in France 
Recent Results: 8th, Baborowko CIC3*; 25th, Marbach CIC3*
Key Facts: Olympic heritage runs deep in the Vogg family. Brothers Ben and Felix are Switzerland’s sole eventing representatives in the 2016 Games, and a third brother Christian competes at the international level as well. The siblings’ grandfather Roland Perret represented Switzerland in eventing at the 1956 Olympic Games in Stockholm, and their mother Danièle competed in the Swiss equestrian championships in 1980. Noe Des Vatys hasn’t had the most seamless lead-up to the Games, having retired cross country twice this spring, but the Voggs are competitors and we wouldn’t be surprised to see them rise to the occasion in Rio.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 126th
Chinch Says:  

Felix Vogg and Onfire
14-year-old bay Thoroughbred gelding owned by Danièle Vogg
Breeding: Hand In Glove X Latinana, by Le Bavard; bred in France by Nicole Bosuran
Recent Results: 27th, Luhmühlen CIC3*; 4th Baborowko CIC3*; 36th, Marbach CIC3*; 1st, Radolfzell CIC2*; 2nd, Kreuth CIC2*
Key Facts: Felix and Onfire have picked up a 20 here and there cross country this spring, but they almost always find the finish flags come hell or highwater, as they did at the 2014 WEG in Normandy albeit not without a couple hiccups along the way. We expect them to do the same in Rio. 
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 52nd
Chinch Says:  

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 UNITED STATES 

Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice
12-year-old dark bay Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by the HND Group
Breeding: Ard Ohio X Sarazen; bred in Ireland by William Kells
Recent Results: 15th, Great Meadow CICO3*; 4th, Rolex Kentucky CCI4*; 4th, The Fork CIC3*; 8th, Carolina International CIC2*
Key Facts: Phillip competes in his sixth Olympic Games in Rio, making him one of the most experienced Olympians in the field. At 52, he’s also the oldest U.S. Olympian, though I’m sure Phillip would tell you that age is just a number. Mighty Nice was called up to Team USA late in the came when Fernhill Cubalawn strained a tendon in his final gallop before training camp, but Phillip certainly isn’t at a disadvantage with “Happy.” He’s completed three CCI4* events in his career, most noticeably finished fourth at Rolex this spring. These two are set to be the anchor combination on cross country for Team USA, and Phillip couldn’t be sitting on a better cross country horse.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 3rd
Chinch Says:   

Lauren Kieffer and Veronica
14-year-old bay Dutch mare owned by Team Rebecca
Breeding: Pacific X Kimbel, by Ferro; bred in the Netherlands by J. Basten
Recent Results: 17th, Great Meadow CICO3*; 2nd, Rolex Kentucky CCI4*; 2nd, The Fork CIC3*
Key Facts: Lauren and Veronica have twice been crowned USEF CCI4* National Champions at Rolex, leaving little question as to why they’re representing Team USA in Rio. Lauren made her U.S. team debut at the Pan American Games in Toronto last year, and now she’s followed that up with her first Olympics just one year later. This duo is one of the most consistent pairs in U.S. eventing, especially when it comes to show jumping. Their clear show jumping average will prove to be especially valuable on Tuesday when horses and riders will jump two show jumping rounds to determine team and individual medals.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 12th
Chinch Says:   

Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery
12-year-old chestnut Thoroughbred gelding owned by the Blackfoot Mystery Syndicate
Breeding: Out of Place X True Mystery, by Proud Truth; bred in the U.S. by John O’Meara
Key Facts: Boyd went to his first Olympics in London in 2012 and delivered a memorable clutch cross country performance for Team USA, but his mount Otis Barbotiere unfortunately had to be withdrawn before show jumping. His strength as a cross country rider makes him an extremely valuable asset to the U.S., and he’s never had a cross country jumping penalty in a team championships. Blackfoot Mystery is one of three off-track Thoroughbreds competing in Rio and is the only U.S. bred. While they had a bit of trouble on cross country in the mandatory team outing at Great Meadow, Boyd has diligently done his homework and put that blip behind them.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 7th
Chinch Says:   

Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen
13-year-old bay Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Jessica Montgomery, Kathryn Kraft, and Holly and Bill Becker
Breeding: Limmerick x Tattymacall Mustard, by Cut the Mustard; bred in Ireland
Recent Results: 1st, Great Meadow CICO3*; 2nd, Bramham CIC3*; 9th, Chatsworth CIC3*; 17th, Belton CIC3*
Key Facts: There are only a handful of horses in the field that average a final finishing score in the 30s, and Clark and Loughan Glen are one of them. This pair poses a serious threat to take an individual medal, as they can dominate across all three phases with a low 30s dressage test and double clear jumping rounds.  “Glen” looks to be peaking at just the right time to deliver the performance of a lifetime in Rio, and we’ll be cheering them on the whole way.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 69th
Chinch Says:    

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 ZIMBABWE 

Camilla Kruger and Biarritz
10-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding owned by the Shamwari Syndicate
Breeding: Vancouver X Ninousch, by Epilot; bred in the Netherlands by J. Dijs
Recent Results: 3rd, Hopetoun CIC3*; 6th, Rockingham CIC2*
Key Facts: Camilla Kruger is the first-ever Zimbabwean to compete in an equestrian sport at the Olympic Games. She and Biarritz earned their ticket after finishing atop the FEI Olympic qualification standings for Africa and the Middle East. Based in the UK, they have had mixed fortunes on cross country over the past year, but their last outing before the Games was a positive one. At the Hopetoun CIC3* they added 14.8 cross country time penalties and zero jump faults to a dressage score of 49.3 to finish in third.
FEI World Eventing Athlete Ranking: 215th
Chinch Says:   

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