I walked the CCI 3 Star course at Blenheim earlier today. After such a huge course at Burghley I was wondering how this would compare. My first impression is that it is big and technical. There seem to be lots more skinny fences and more technical lines. The ground is similar to Burghley in that it undulating, with lots of hills. Another thing I noticed was you run through the forest twice, the first after the water between 8 & 9 and then again between 18 & 19.
There are 100 horses representing 15 Nations including Australia and Japan who are vying for Olympic qualification this weekend. As John mentioned earlier, the USA has six combinations and Canada has Kyle Carter backing up after his misfortune at Burghley and Kathryn Robinson with Let it be.
There will be lots of action this weekend, this will not be a dressage competition by any stretch, I look forward to it. Here is the fence by fence.
Thanks,
ESJ
