Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW. Photo by Shannon Brinkman.

By the time event horses reach the Olympic level, they pretty much have the CCI format down: you do your dressage test, you run cross country, and if all systems are go you tackle a final show jumping round.

But, of course, the Olympic Games has to do things differently. There’s not just one but two show jumping rounds — round one determines team medals; round two, contested by the top 25 from round one, determines individual medals.

Imagine the surprise today’s Olympic equine competitors will experience after round one when, instead of being stuffed full of carrots and enjoying a nap at the barn, their grooms tack them back up and send them back out into in front of the crowd for round two.

This “encore performance” gives the Olympic individual medal competition a definite wild card factor, and has historically made for major shifts in the standings as some horses rise to the occasion and others run out of gas.

Here’s a glimpse of the difference an extra show jumping round can making, using the 2012 London Olympics as an example (the format was also used in the 2008 Beijing and 2004 Athens Games):

2012 standings after show jumping round one (team): 

Via Wikimedia/CC.

2012 standings after show jumping round two (individual):

Via Wikimedia/CC.

Which is to say, were it not for the addition of a round two, the story of 2012 Olympic eventing would have been written quite differently in the history books. Michael Jung and Sam wouldn’t be coming into today’s competition as the reigning Olympic champions — an interesting thought experiment indeed!

This time around, of course, we have a slightly different situation, as the pair already sits atop the leaderboard.

2016 standings after show jumping round one (team): 

Can they hang onto their position? Maggie Deatrick analyzed their show jumping track record in this morning’s “Show Jumping Powerhouses of Rio“:

Despite a couple of notorious rails (like the one that lost him Badminton in 2013 and the two rails that lost him Rolex in 2015), this horse has actually been quite a careful jumper throughout his career, especially at the CCI4* level. In eight CCI4* events (counting the London Games), he’s jumped double clear six times. Somehow, the three rails he has accumulated have earned him a reputation as a less-than-careful jumper, when the reverse is actually true. Oh, and those two rails at Rolex were the only two rails he’s had in the past 18 months over seven rounds, four of which were at the four-star level.

Bottom line: We wouldn’t bet against them.

Maggie also included France’s Astier Nicolas and Piaf de B’Neville, currently in silver medal position, as a pair that is likely to cling fast to their spot on the leaderboard if not improve upon it should Michael and Sam pick up an uncharacteristic rail.

Fairly careful but not perfect, Piaf de B’Neville has twice incurred a single rail in six rounds over the Olympic qualifying period. Notably, these two jumped clear at both CCIs they attempted in the time period. With a stalking position of third (now second) place, a surprise win isn’t out of the question.

The bronze medal position may be more likely up for grabs. Chris Burton and Santano II have a significantly spottier show jumping record, already pulling two rails in round one to drop from the #1 to #3 spot.

Fun fact: In 2012 Karen O’Connor and Chris Burton, who is currently in bronze position, switched places exactly on the leaderboard between rounds one and two. Karen jumped up the leaderboard from 16th into the top 10 on the wings of a round two double-clear; Chris Burton was 9th after a one-rail first round but pulled three rails in round two to move down into Karen’s original position at #16.

You can bet that another American, Phillip Dutton, would happily trade places with Chris this time around — and being less than a rail apart, anything is possible!

Can’t wait to watch how history unfolds this afternoon in Rio. Round two kicks off at 1 p.m. EST — you can check out the order of go here. Best of luck to all!

#Rio2016: Website, Schedule, Show Jumping Order of Go, Individual Scores, Team Scores, EN’s Ultimate Guide to Rio, How to Watch Live, EN’s Coverage, Twitter, Instagram

We have just 16 of 65 athletes left to complete the dressage phase of Rio Olympic eventing. Headlining the grand finale, there are several team and individual storylines up in the air and exciting performances still to come. This is about as nail-biting as dressage gets, folks!

Are you pumped? Brian O’Connor and the gang at Morningside Training Farm sure are.

Jenni is tweeting the action ringside in Rio; you can check out her lunch report here and of course she’ll bring us a full wrap-up at the end of the day. For those of us following along from home, here’s how to watch the live stream.

The competitors are performing OG 4* Test B – Short Version and will be judged by Marilyn Payne of the United States at C, Andrew Bennie of New Zealand at E, and Sandy Phillips of Great Britain at M.

Be sure to check out Maggie Deatrick’s “Dressage Powerhouses of Rio: Day Two,” wherein she spotlights the combinations that we’re likely to see at the top of the leaderboard at the end of the day. And be sure to cheer extra loud (even if you’re just sitting at home alone — it still counts!) for the North American contingent.

Sunday U.S. ride times:
12 p.m. BRT (11 a.m. EST): Lauren Kieffer and Veronica
3:38 BRT (2:28 EST): Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice

Sunday Canadian ride times:
10:16 a.m. BRT (9:16 a.m. EST): Colleen Loach and Qorry Blue a’Argouges
1:54 p.m. BRT (12:54 p.m. EST): Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master

Keep refreshing and checking back for photos, social links and behind-the-scenes info. 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

Live updates: 

2:46 p.m. EST: That’s a wrap for dressage! Here’s the leaderboard scene as we head into cross country…

2:46 p.m. EST: Marcio Jorge Carvalho and Lissy Mac Wayer (BRA) The Brazilian combinations have been some of my favorites to watch this weekend. Not necessarily because they’re blowing it out of the water, but because the riders have clearly enjoyed strutting their stuff in front of the rabidly enthusiastic Brazilian fans. After that final salute, all bets are off!

A roar of crowd approval for Brazil’s Marcio and Lissy Mac Wayer, the final of 65 Olympic eventing competitors. They score a 49.9. #Rio2016 — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

2:38 p.m. EST: Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice (USA)

Phillip showed why he’s our anchor rider today, collecting an encouraging score for a team that didn’t quite live up to its potential in the dressage this weekend. “Happy” isn’t a particularly flash horse, but with Phillip piloting him around he was rock-solid and stubbornly consistent. As commentator John Kyle put it, “His trot work doesn’t set the world on fire, but he’s not throwing any marks away.” They earned 7.0 after 7.0 for a final score of 43.6, good for 15th place. Too bad there isn’t a coefficient for amazing ears! His big floppies would bring the house down.

Here we go #TeamUSA! Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice are next in #Rio2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

2nd to last rider is Philip Dutton for @USEquestrian who’ll be looking to pull them up the team rankings #TwoHearts pic.twitter.com/9Xv2nn0ibb — The FEI (@FEI_Global) August 7, 2016

43.6 for Phillip Dutton and Mighty Nice for 15th place! That’s a personal best for Happy! #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

2:30 p.m. EST: Ludwig Svennerstal and Aspe (SWE)

51.0 for Ludwig Svennerstal and Aspe to sit in 46th place for Sweden #Rio2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

2:22 p.m. EST: Ingrid Klimke and Horseware Hale Bob (GER)

Ingrid and Hale Bob danced in step with William Fox-Pitt’s score for the beginning of their test, but there were just a few too many “meh” sixes to keep them from truly giving the leader a run for his money. They go out with a bang, collecting a nine for their final halt, and move into fourth position.

From high hopes…

Can Ingrid Klimke and Horseware Hale Bob take the lead? They’re starting their test now! #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

With 4 @Olympics under her belt already @ingrid_klimke will be looking to add to her medal haul @Rio2016 #TwoHearts pic.twitter.com/VVs9F9ZQaO — The FEI (@FEI_Global) August 7, 2016

Germany are on 122.0 just .20 penalties ahead of @FFEquitation in the #EquestrianEventing It is all to play for in the XC tomo #TwoHearts

— The FEI (@FEI_Global) August 7, 2016

… to a still-impressive and competitive score:

39.5 for Ingrid Klimke and Horseware Hale Bob to slot into 4th place. The judges are being very stingy today! #Rio2016 — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

Ingrid Klimke just gave a master class on how to ride a dressage test … Never wasted a mark on a horse that isn’t flashy or wow!

— Laura Collett (@CollettEventing) August 7, 2016

And that’s what the German fans thought about @ingrid_klimke‘s test!! The German’s are back in the lead for the team pic.twitter.com/Ow2Iu71vkx — The FEI (@FEI_Global) August 7, 2016

2:14 p.m. EST: Jonelle Price and Faerie Dianimo (NED)

When this mare is on, she is ON, but she doesn’t seem to be in the mood to play in Rio. They are penalized by a string of twos for their not-extended extended trot, and it was a roller coaster ride from that point on with marks running the gamut from eight to four. They’ll be New Zealand’s drop score but will be useful to the team tomorrow; Jonelle is one of the fastest cross country riders in the world — she posted the fasted time at the notoriously muddy 2014 WEG in Normandy — and she’ll do well to put that to use around Pierre Michelet’s twisty, turny Rio course.

Here’s one who can challenge the leaders! Jonelle Price and Faerie Dianimo are entering the ring now for New Zealand #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

Three 2s for Jonelle in medium. Breaking in extended too. Olympic dreams vanishing here. NZL also under pressure. — EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 7, 2016

Three 2s for Jonelle in medium. Breaking in extended too. Olympic dreams vanishing here. NZL also under pressure.

— EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 7, 2016

Oh crikey, is the atmosphere bulding in the arena @ Rio? Faerie Dianimo really not settling in the trot work, & tense. #EquestrianEventing — e-Venting (@e_Venting) August 7, 2016

Poor Jonelle Price just wasn’t her day 🙁

— Eventing Worldwide (@EventingWWNEWS) August 7, 2016

Disappointing for Jonelle Price with 49.50 and into 41st place with just 4 riders to go! #TwoHearts #Rio2016 — The FEI (@FEI_Global) August 7, 2016

2:06 p.m. EST: Merel Blom and Rumour Has It (NED)

A tense and ultimately disappointing test for Merel and Rumour Has It in their Olympic debut. This horse is a cross country machine, though, and this isn’t a dressage show!

54.4 for 48th place for Merel Blom and Rumour Has It #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

1:58 p.m. EST: Kitty King on Ceylor L A N (GBR) A couple of mistakes — a break in the medium trot and a botched flying change — prove costly for Kitty and Ceylor L A N, who had an otherwise lovely test. This is Kitty’s Olympic debut, and this will be 9-year-old Ceylor’s first crack at a four-star track. While their ice in their veins may not quite be solid, yet, they’re clearly a talented pair and we wish them luck in the remainder of the competition.

Poor Kitty. Just when you’re about to do the test of a lifetime, they leave her outside the arena for 5 minutes & then stick Rick Astley on. — GJM Eventing (@GJMEventing) August 7, 2016

Huge bummer. A break in the medium trot to start for Kitty King and Ceylor LAN #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

Kitty King and Ceylor LAN score 46.8 for 24th place. A costly bobble at the beginning #Rio2016 #JoinTheJourney #TwoHearts — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

Kitty King scores a disappointing 46.8 and that puts the Brits at best 4th overnight but the XC will reshuffle things #TwoHearts #Rio2016

— Horse & Hound (@horseandhound) August 7, 2016

1:50 p.m. EST: Aleksandr Markov and Kurfurstin (RUS) Despite what was surely a stressful and uncertain leadup to the games — the Russian equestrians didn’t get official clearance to compete until Thursday afternoon — Aleksandr and Kurfurstin looked at ease in the ring today. All of their trot work earned at least one seven, although their walk was a bit lacking in overstep with not enough differentiation between the medium and extended.

Aleksandr Markov and Kurfurstin score 48.9 for 36th place #Rio2016 — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

1:26 p.m. EST: Shane Rose and CP Qualified (AUS)

Consistency has been richly rewarded in this phase of the competition, and Shane leaves nothing on the field in his test with last year’s Adelaide CCI4* winner CP Qualified. Not a brilliant test but a rock-solid one, good for 12th place as we head into the final dressage session after the break.

EVENTING Shane and CP Qualified now on the dressage arena. Standby for their score #OneTeam pic.twitter.com/rb3ByI3TE4

— AUS Olympic Team (@AUSOlympicTeam) August 7, 2016

42.5 for Shane Rose and CP Qualified for 12th place. We’re now on a quick break for the final group! #Rio2016 — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

He’s waited a while for some good luck at the Olympic Games but maybe this is Shane Rose’s year #eventing #Rio2016 pic.twitter.com/swDiRdgUrc

— An Eventful Life (@eventfulifebook) August 7, 2016

1:18 p.m. EST: Stefano Brecciaroli and Apollo Van De Wendi Kurt Hoeve (ITA) 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. Their test today was on track to shake up the tip top of the leaderboard, but a stray low mark here and there kept their score from being their personal best. It’s still good enough for the top 10, though, and he looks happy with that!

Stefano scored 35.5 at Rolex in 2010 and 38.5 in London. Can they produce another big one here?#EquestrianEventing #TwoHearts — EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 7, 2016

Italian is such a sexy language. Mandatory tweet in native tongue:

La bellezza di Stefano e Apollo…. grazie alla proprietaria Giovanna Mazzocchi per aver messo a disposizione un gioiello come questo!

— EventingItaly (@Eventing_Italy) August 7, 2016

Some stunning trot work for Stefano Brecciaroli and Apollo VD Wendi Kurt. 41.9 for 9th place #Rio2016 — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

Dopo 3 cavalieri l’Italia aveva 154;
Stefano Brecciaroli 41,9 e l’Italia migliora il punteggio chiudendo con 140,9! pic.twitter.com/1kicEBp9ko

— EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 7, 2016

Swoon! 1:10 p.m. EST: Mark Kyle and Jemilla (FRA) Now three-time Olympian Mark may feel that he could have done a bit more out there today but will take comfort in the fact that their score of 58.7 is his personal Olympic best.

The Irish flags are out for our next rider Mark Kyle #RioOlympics2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney — Eventing Worldwide (@EventingWWNEWS) August 7, 2016

Another Olympic PB for @TeamIRLEq – 50.4 for Mark Kyle & Jemilla beats his former best of 58.7 at London 2012 #TwoHearts #EquestrianEventing

— EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 7, 2016

50.4 for Mark Kyle and Jemilla to move into 37th place for the Irish team #Rio2016 — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

Solid work @queenholme, a useful score if the team need it and it won’t be a dressage competition. #Rio2016 #EquestrianEventing #TwoHearts

— John Kyle (@JohnKyleSpeaks) August 7, 2016

1:02 p.m. EST: Mathieu Lemoine and Bart L (FRA) It’s been a big day for the French! Mathieu and Bart’s very consistent test — they’ve got “7.5” down to an art — earns an excellent score of 39.2 that will rattle the top of the leaderboard and move them into bronze position. They’ve been trending lower on the flat in each of their FEI appearances for the past two years, and this test follows in that trend, their best yet at the level.

The French are on a tear! Mathieu Lemoine and Bart L earn a 39.2, which moves them into third. #Rio2016 — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

12:54 p.m. EST: Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master (CAN)

Rebecca and “Rupert” have come such a very long way together in their partnership and now find themselves on the world’s biggest stage, contesting their first Olympic Games. Their test is fairly consistent, averaging marks of 6.5 and 7, but their flying changes will hold them back from a better score today. Rebecca tends to pick apart even the smallest mistakes, and she probably stomped her way back to the barns today, but that’s what makes her such a fierce competitor. We expect to see them jump their way up the scoreboard over the next couple days.

Rebecca Howard and Riddle Master score 49.4 for 34th place Canada #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

Beady eyes, furry heart, can’t lose!

Chinch loves Rebecca, Rupert and Canada! #Rio2016 #eventing #equestrian #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 7, 2016 at 10:16am PDT

12:46 p.m. EST: Pawel Spisak and Banderas (POL)

Pawel puts in a workmanlike test in his fourth appearance on the Olympic stage. He’s riding Banderas, a horse he’s produced from a youngster, and their lack of that final bit of polish coupled with a bum flying change — penalized by marks of 1, 4 and 2 — will relegate them to the lower end of the scoreboard today.

Slightly unsettled 9 yr old, Banderas (POL), Polish Horse Breeders Assoc, looks a little tense, no doubt will be a fast runner tom #Rio2016

— #HorseHour (@HorseHour) August 7, 2016

Pawel Spisak and Banderas score 53.6 for 39th place for Poland #Rio2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

12:38 p.m. EST: Karin Donckers and Fletcha van ‘T Verahof (BEL)

Karin and “Fletcher” never throw away a mark, and their consistency throughout the test boosts them into the top five.

Karin Donckers produced the 4th best Test in modern Olympic eventing history (31.7 in 2008) – can she get close to that in her 5th Olympics?

— EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 7, 2016

Anybody else just hear Karin Doncker loudly say “Whoooa”??! — StreamHorseTV (@StreamHorseTV) August 7, 2016

Karin Donckers and Fletcha Van’t Verahof score 41.0 for 5th place #Rio2016 #TwoHearts

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

My very punny friend Mary Hollis Baird continues to be on point in the afternoon session:

German fans going Donckers for Karin!! #TwoHearts #EquestrianEventing — Mary Hollis Baird (@LittleBaird) August 7, 2016

Karin Donckers and Fletcha Van’t Verahof score 41.0 for 5th place #Rio2016 #TwoHearts

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

12:30 p.m. EST: Alex Hua Tian and Don Geniro (CHN) What an elegant picture this pair presents. Alex is a lovely, classically correct rider and his horse is green to the level, with only one CCI3* completion on his resume at Boekelo last fall, but looks as keen as they come. They pick up some great judges’ marks today, including a 9.5 on his extended walk, but a couple blips will keep them from the tip-top of the scoreboard.

We’re back with the afternoon session on day two of dressage at #Rio2016! Alex Hua Tian and Don Geniro are first out for China — Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

42.4 and into 8th place for Alex Hua Tian and Don Geniro #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 7, 2016

Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery. Photo by Jenni Autry.

This is the Saturday morning dressage live update thread. If you’re looking for the Saturday afternoon thread, click here. 

The first day of dressage is upon us at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games! The first of 33 pairs to canter down the centerline today is Canada’s Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance at 10 a.m. BRT (9 a.m. EST).

Jenni is tweeting the action ringside in Rio, she’ll be bringing us an update at the lunch break as well as a full report at the end of the day. For those of us following along from home, here’s how to watch the live stream.

The competitors are performing OG 4* Test B – Short Version and will be judged by Marilyn Payne of the United States, Andrew Bennie of New Zealand and Sandy Phillips of Great Britain.

Be sure to check out Maggie Deatrick’s “Dressage Powerhouses of Rio: Day One,” wherein she spotlights the combinations that we’re likely to see at the top of the leaderboard at the end of the day. And be sure to cheer extra loud (even if you’re just sitting at home alone — it still counts!) for the North American contingent.

U.S. ride times:
11:36 BRT (10:36 EST): Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery
3:14 BRT (2:14 EST): Clark Montgomery and Loughan Glen

Canadian ride times:
10 a.m. BRT (9 a.m. EST): Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance
1:30 p.m. BRT (12:30 p.m. EST): Kathryn Robinson and Let It Bee

Keep refreshing and checking back for photos, social links and behind-the-scenes info. Go Eventing! 

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

Saturday morning session order of go:

Live updates:

11:26 a.m. EST: That concludes the first two sessions of day one Olympic dressage. See full scores here. We’ll see you at our afternoon live update thread when dressage resumes at 12:30 p.m.!

That brings us to the lunch break at #Rio2016. Sandra Auffarth & Opgun Louvo lead on 41.6 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney pic.twitter.com/q5dmxfRtHg

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Lots to look forward to after the break …

Next up for @TeamUSA #EquestrianEventing is Clark @MontgomeryEques and #LoughanGlen. #Rio2016 #TwoHearts pic.twitter.com/fxhFlNaz3A

— The FEI USA (@FEI_USA) August 6, 2016

11:16 a.m. EST: Carlos Lobos Muñoz and Ranco

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:   

We have Carlos Lobos Munoz & Ranco in the ring now. These two finished 5th individually at the Pan Am Games last year for Chile #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

49.3 for Carlos Lobos Munoz and Ranco to slot into 8th place for Chile! That’s a super score for them. Well done! #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

11:08 a.m. EST: Albert Hermoso Farras and Hito CP (ESP)

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:   

Albert Hermoso Farras and Hito CP are next in the ring as the sole combination for Spain at #Rio2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Albert Hermoso Farras and Hito CP. Photo by © Hippo Foto – Dirk Caremans/FEI.

64.7 for Albert Hermoso Farras and Hito CP to slot in 14th place for Spain. Just one more to go before the break #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

11:00 a.m. EST: Ryuzo Kijajima and Just Chocolate (JPN)

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:  

Ryuzo Kitajima and Just Chocolate are next in the ring, one of two individual riders for Japan at #Rio2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

57.7 for Ryuzo Kitajima and Just Chocolate of Japan. Just two more to go before the lunch break here on the first day of dressage #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

10:52 a.m. EST: Ben Vogg and Noe Des Vatys (SWI)

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:  

Ben Vogg and Noe Des Vatys are in the ring now for Switzerland. Trending at about 68% so far #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

51.7 for Ben Vogg and Noe Des Vatys for 10th place #Rio2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

10:44 a.m. EST: Marcio Appel and Iberon Jmen (BRA)

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:  

Huge cheers for Marcio Appel and Iberon Jmen as they enter the ring. The first out for the Brazilian team! #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Score of 57.2 for Brazil’s Marcio Appel and Iberon Jmen, the first pair out for the home team! #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

10:36 a.m. EST: Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery (USA)

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:   

Get excited #TeamUSA! Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery are next in the ring! #Rio2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery scored a 52.0 at @RolexKentucky, so we’re crossing our fingers they can best that here! #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Here comes @WindurraUSA walking up with #BlackfootMystery! Good luck, Boyd! #TwoHearts #Rio2016 pic.twitter.com/HM4i4b9B1H

— The FEI USA (@FEI_USA) August 6, 2016

Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery #nailedit at #Rio2016! A personal best score of 47.7 to slot into 7th place currently #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney #equestrian #eventing

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 6, 2016 at 8:08am PDT

Boyd Martin squeezed every point he could out of that test! Well done with Blackfoot Mystery #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

47.7 for Boyd Martin and Blackfoot Mystery to slot into 7th place! A personal best for this pair #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

47.7 – A Personal Best in the Olympics for Boyd Martin and his former racehorse Blackfoot Mystery #RoadToRio #TwoHearts #EquestrianEventing

— EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 6, 2016

Boyd Martin having a chat with @LeeMcKenzieTV from @BBCSport #TwoHearts #Rio2016 #EquestrianEventing pic.twitter.com/GFWbLoky5n

— The FEI (@FEI_Global) August 6, 2016

10:20 a.m. EST: Linda Algotsson and Fairnet (SWE)

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:   

@GracefulMare Fairnet is a big Swedish Warmblood stallion. He definitely has an impressive presence in the ring!

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Linda Algotsson and Fairnet (SWE). Photo FEI/© Hippo Foto – Dirk Caremans.

50.9 for Linda Algotsson and Fairnet to slot into 8th place currently #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

10:20 a.m. EST: Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Louvo (GER)

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:    

Sandra Auffarth & Opgun Louvo up next…will they beat their London 2012 score of 40.0? #OneToWatch #EquestrianEventing #TwoHearts

— EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 6, 2016

We’re back with Sandra Auffarth, world champion and defending Germany’s @Olympics Team Gold #TwoHearts #Rio2016 pic.twitter.com/CRYBCmG5sT

— The FEI (@FEI_Global) August 6, 2016

Super trot work for Sandra and Opgun Louvo. This is trending at 73% so far #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

And into the lead for Sandra Auffarth on 41.7pens – going for another Gold to add to the collection?? #TwoHearts pic.twitter.com/0NSQzQjFzH

— The FEI (@FEI_Global) August 6, 2016

This is what it’s all about! Sandra Auffarth gave Opgun Louvo a big hug after scoring 41.6 to take the early lead at #Rio2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 6, 2016 at 8:16am PDT

A look at the leaderboard with Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Louvo as our new leaders #Rio2016 #TwoHearts pic.twitter.com/k8t68zhwz8

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

10:03 a.m. EST: Short break before Session 2 begins…

The standings after Session 1:

We’re on about a 25-minute break now at #Rio2016. Astier Nicolas and Piaf de B’Neville still lead on 42.0 #TwoHearts

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Early leaderboard… #RoadtoRio #EquestrianEventing #TwoHearts pic.twitter.com/KkdCmnzrrK

— EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 6, 2016

Are you watching?

Loving watching the Olympic eventing dressage!! #rio2016 #twohearts

— Kyle & Jen Carter (@CarterEventing) August 6, 2016

9:56 a.m. EST: Tim Price and Ringwood Sky Boy (NZL)

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:   

Tim Price and Ringwood Sky Boy are circling the ring now for NZL, a late call up to the team yesterday #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

So far so good for Tim Price and Ringwood Sky Boy. Trending at 68% currently #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

9:48 a.m. EST: Theo van de Vendel and Zindane (NED)

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:  

Teo Van De Vendel and Zindane. Photo © FEI/Hippo Foto – Dirk Caremans.

65.6 for Theo Van de Vendel and Zindane for the Netherlands #Rio2016 #JoinTheJourney #TwoHearts

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

9:40 a.m. EST: Gemma Tattersall and Quicklook V (GBR)

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:   

First of @TeamGBR – @GTeventing heading into the arena #Rio2016 #EquestrianEventing pic.twitter.com/Y9cx1MQAZC

— The FEI (@FEI_Global) August 6, 2016

Here we go #TeamGB! Gemma Tattersall and Quicklook V are circling the ring now #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Lots of fans and friends cheering Gemma on from afar…

Got to love technology ! Watching @GTeventing @cowdraypolo GOOD LUCK GEMMA! #equestrian #TwoHearts pic.twitter.com/pKYS2d35pe

— The Gaitpost (@thegaitpost) August 6, 2016

Only positive about being laid up is that I get to watch my friends like @GTeventing live at the Olympics! #goodluck pic.twitter.com/22SyVE3wDY

— Liz Halliday (@lizhalliday) August 6, 2016

And they’re off!

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

Dang. A break to extended trot for Gemma Tattersall & Quicklook, but they recovered well. This is trending at 66% currently #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Early break in the extended trot could be costly. Need to get the judges on side early here

— EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 6, 2016

Gemma Tattersall and Quicklook V score 47.2 for #TeamGB #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Solid start from @GTeventing and Quicklook V – finished with a big smile! #EquestrianEventing

— Equestrian Team GBR (@TeamGBR) August 6, 2016

.@GTeventing salutes at the end of her dressage test – getting @TeamGB #EquestrianEventing off to a good start! pic.twitter.com/u6QRFOeiW3

— Equestrian Team GBR (@TeamGBR) August 6, 2016

9:32 a.m. EST: Sam Griffiths and Paulank Brockagh (AUS)

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:    

Next in we have one of our dressage powerhouses for day 1: Sam Griffiths and Paulank Brockagh for Australia. Go Brocks! #Rio2016 #TwoHearts

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Sam Griffiths is the first Aussie to ride in the #Eventing. Let’s go Australia! #RideWithUs pic.twitter.com/WuU0lauUBD

— Equestrian Australia (@EquestrianAus) August 6, 2016

This is trending at just under 70% for Sam Griffiths and Paulank Brockagh currently. Lovely trot work to start #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Bang on in the final halt for Sam Griffiths and Paulank Brockagh! Beautifully done and a great start for Australia #Rio2016 #TwoHearts

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

46.3 for Sam Griffiths and Paulank Brockagh to slot into second place currently #Rio2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

9:24 a.m. EST: Luca Roman and Castlewoods Jake (ITA)

Luca Roman and Castlewoods Jake. Photo © FEI/Hippo Foto – Dirk Caremans.

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:   

Luca Roman and Castlewoods Jake score 50.7 as the first out for the Italian team #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

9:16 a.m. EST: Padraig McCarthy and Simon Porloe (IRE)

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:   

Padraig performed his test to an acoustic rendition of “Starships” from @NICKIMINAJ Waiting on his score now #IRE #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

A bit of an unplanned swap in the canter for Padraig but this is a lovely performance so far. Trending 65% at the moment #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

46.8 for Padraig McCarthy and Simon Porloe of Ireland. A really solid start for the team #Rio2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

So far most nations scoring higher than normal. @TeamIRLEq @IrishEventer Padraig McCarthy closest to their best so far. #EquestrianEventing

— EquiRatings (@EquiRatings) August 6, 2016

9:09 a.m. EST: Astier Nicolas and Piaf De B’Neville (FRA)

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:   

Astier Nicolas and Piaf de B’Neville are your early leaders at #Rio2016 on 42.3 #TwoHearts #JointheJourney #equestrian #eventing

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 6, 2016 at 7:12am PDT

#ObjectifRio #rio2016 #TwoHearts #FRA #teamfrance La piste est prête à Deodoro @AstierNicolas H-3 ⏳ pic.twitter.com/U2i6LoqlSn

— FF Equitation (@FFEquitation) August 6, 2016

9:00 a.m.: Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance (CAN)

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:  

A personal best score for Jessica Phoenix and A Little Romance as the first out at #Rio2016

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 6, 2016 at 6:27am PDT

Jessica @Phoenix_Eq_Team gets @TeamCanada #Eventing off to solid start with 51.9 #Rio2016 #equestrian #TwoHearts ❤️ pic.twitter.com/2PhB64sPea

— Kerri McGregor (@KerriMcGregor) August 6, 2016

Jessica Phoenix is THRILLED with her test. 52.0 is a personal best score for A Little Romance & Jessica’s best score at an Olympics #Rio2016

— Eventing Nation (@eventingnation) August 6, 2016

Congrats to Jessica Phoenix & A Little Romance: score of 52 in dressage. Live scoring: https://t.co/rqqOrWqPsD pic.twitter.com/dLEYVoUz7x

— Equestrian Canada (@Equestrian_Can) August 6, 2016

8:59 a.m. EST: Let’s do this!

Let’s do this everyone!! @Rio2016 #EquestrianEventing is a go #TwoHearts #Rio2016 pic.twitter.com/QjV88Hi6ar

— The FEI (@FEI_Global) August 6, 2016

8:55 a.m. EST: Test ride, check!

Here we go Rio! Tina Cook just kicked us off with a lovely test ride aboard Billy the Red. Just 15 minutes to go now on this first day of dressage at #Rio2016 #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 6, 2016 at 5:45am PDT

The Olympics couldn’t happen without amazing volunteers like Ernie Peterson. He’s volunteered at six Olympics! #Rio2016 #eventing #equestrian #TwoHearts #JoinTheJourney

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 6, 2016 at 5:56am PDT

Dressage day one is HERE! Who’s ready? Chinch is! #Rio2016 #JoinTheJourney #TwoHearts #equestrian #eventing

A photo posted by Eventing Nation (@goeventing) on Aug 6, 2016 at 3:55am PDT

Everybody handles stress the differently. For Team USA’s equine athletes, it’s all about keeping those legs stretched and muscles loose:

Thank you to our team sports therapist Jo-Ann Wilson for giving Happy a massage today! He feels fantastic #twohearts #jointhejourney #equestrian #eventing

A photo posted by Phillip Dutton Eventing (@duttoneventing) on Aug 2, 2016 at 3:11pm PDT

When it comes to our human athletes, on the other hand, everybody has their own pre-competition strategies. Personally, I’m a fan of Clark Montgomery’s approach — no shirt, no shoes, no problem.

Keeping it stress free here at Rio.

A photo posted by Clark Montgomery (@clarkmonty) on Aug 2, 2016 at 12:02pm PDT

Boyd Martin, on the other hand, decided to hit the athlete’s village gym — which, as it turns out, was quite the cultural experience:

At least he’s among friends!

Go Team USA. Go Eventing.