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Here they are, Burghley’s Class of 2023, looking keen and ready to put all that homework to the test.
Great Britain’s Harry Meade will kick off the 2023 edition of Burghley at 9:45am BST / 4:45am EST with the first of his three rides Away Cruising.
Getting the USA campaign underway will be Boyd Martin and On Cue – set to go at 10:25am BST / 5:25am EST.
Canada’s Jessie Phoenix also goes today with Wabbit – catch them if you can at 3:18pm BST / 10:18am EST.
The USA’s Jennie Saville with FE Lifestyle will be the penultimate combination today – they head down the center line at 3:50pm BST / 10:50am EST.
Who will be heading up the leaderboard at the end of day one at Burghley? Will they stay there? Keep this live thread refreshed, and watch this space! (Don’t forget, if you’re viewing this after the event, read from the bottom up.)
Want to follow along with the form of all the horses and riders cantering down the center line? Check out EN’s Form Guide for all the inside info.
Don’t forget to follow @goeventing and keep it locked onto EN for all the ins and outs of what’s sure to be a brilliant Burghley.
Let’s go eventing!
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11:02 And that’s a wrap on Dressage Day 1 at Burghley!
Leading overnight is Oliver Townend with Swallow Springs on a score of 24.2.
Just over two points behind, in second is Ros Canter on Pencos Crown Jewel on 26.9.
Rounding out the top three is Emily King with Valmy Biats on 30.
Oliver‘s other ride, Tregilder is on 30.5, equal with Tom McEwen and Luna Mist.
Then it’s the USA’s Jennie Saville with FE Lifestyle in 6th on 31.1.
The other US rider to go today, Boyd Martin with On Cue sit in 8th on 38.1.
And Jessie Phoenix and Wabbit for Canada are 15th on 34.9
Watch out for Tilly’s full round-up of all the day’s dressage – coming soon!
Thanks for coming along for the ride. I’ll be back tomorrow with another day’s action from between the white boards. Until then, go eventing!
11:00 Holly Richardson and Bally Louis score 36.6 which Holly looks very pleased with.
10:59 The penultimate change happens easily but the final one is 4s across the board. They finish on a lovely square halt though for 8s across the board.
10:57 The walk brings in 6.5s and a few 7s and the scores improve a bit as the canter work starts. The change dips them a bit. Louis is snorting a bit, but is keeping a lid on it and Holly feels able to really push for the extended canter. The change afterwards was late though.
10:56 Louis produces a rhythmical extended trot and then a secure halt for 7s. Louis doesn’t enjoy the rein back though and comes behind the vertical a fair bit, which obviously affects the marks.
10:55 They get their first 5* off with a square halt that’s pretty straight up the center line. The trot’s trending around 6.5 but there are some 7s creeping in.
10:54 Louis has a tendency to get quite tense in this phase – last time out he scored a 37.3, the time before that it was 43.1. What will he think of the atmosphere in the Main Arena at Burghley? Remember to breathe Louis.
10:53 Rounding off the first day’s dressage at Burghley is Holly Richardson and Bally Louis.
Rookie alert! This is Holly and Louis’ first 5*.
It might be his first time in top-level atmosphere, but Louis took the trot-up like an old pro yesterday.
🪜 Holly’s brought Louis up the levels from Novice.
Busy lady – Holly will be riding and grooming Louis this week, although Louis’ owners are there to lend a hand.
Smart cookie 🍪👩🎓 Holly has a PhD in Equine Research.
10:52 Jennie Saville and FE Lifestyle score a personal best of 31.1. Jennie looks delighted.
10:51 A couple of errors but they finish up with an 8 and two 9s for the final halt. Foxy’s very relaxed on the way out of the arena after what was a great test overall.
10:50 Foxy stumbles slightly on the center line and then the changes have been a bit tense. They put in an unwanted change and things seem a bit wobbly, and perhaps a bit green. They’ve got it back together though and the left to right change is much better and scores a 7.
10:49 The walk isn’t as expressive as the trot, but it is relaxed and rhythmical. A bit more purpose would pull in higher marks.
10:48 There’s lots of quality in the trot work, it’s so rhythmical and relaxed. Foxy is forward and expressive and looks a real picture. It’s so soft and easy.
10:47 Jennie’s smiling all the way up the center line, she looks very happy to be at her first Burghley. She gets 7.5s and 7s for the entry and halt.
10:46 We’re looking at low-30s in the first phase. They posted a 35.7 at Kentucky, and a 32.5 last time out at Bromont in the 4*S where they finished 4th. What will it be at Burghley?
10:45 Our penultimate combination of the day is Jennie Saville and FE Lifestyle for the US.
They come forward for their fifth 5* together, and first Burghley. They were 12th at Kentucky in the spring, and 5th at Maryland last year.
In June, FE Lifestyle was named to the Elite Eventing Program List, part of the US Eventing Pathway.
🦊 He’s known as ‘Foxy’ in the barn.
He can be a bit quirky, and isn’t always easy on the flat, so we’ll have to see how he finds the Burghley Main Arena.
Jennie is based with Phillip Dutton in Pennsylvania.
Keeping it equestrian – Jennie is married to a racehorse trainer 🏇
Here’s some puppy love because 😍🐶:
10:44 Oliver Townend and Swallow go straight into the lead with 24.2.
10:42 Oliver’s riding at his very best here. It’s totally, totally accurate. The canter work is pulling in 8s and 7.5s and they’re creating a lovely picture. A 9 and two 8s for the stretch circle. This is a beautiful test, from horse and from rider. A grin from Oliver and a few fist pumps happening. There’s a 9 for the final halt. This is going into the lead for sure and the crowd knows it.
10:41 It’s two 8s and a 7.5 for the rein back, and more of the same quality in the walk work. He’s trending to go into the lead…
10:40 It’s 8s across the board for the medium trot. This is great trot work, uphill and forward, lots of power and drive. 7.5s and 8s coming in for Oliver and Swallow Springs.
10:39 Oliver’s got his game face on as he halts to salute. It’s two 7.5s and an 8 for the entry and halt.
10:38 Swallow Springs has pulled out some very smart dressage tests. Regularly in the low 20s – they scored 23.2 at Badminton in this phase – this could be a combination fighting for a place at the top of the leaderboard. 👀
10:37 Oliver Townend’s back with us now with his second ride, Swallow Springs.
This lovely gelding has been 3rd here when Andrew Nicholson was in the irons – he’s also been 5th at Badminton with Andrew, and 3rd with Oliver. He was 7th at Luhmuhlen this season.
Hot form! 🌶️ Oliver currently tops the British Eventing rankings for most wins this season. He’s second on the leaderboard for most cross country clears inside the time and has the highest number of show jumping clears.
Oliver’s one tough cookie 🍪 At Kentucky in 2010, he broke his collar bone, shoulder bones, sternum and four ribs – he was in hospital for one day!
Brrr! Boyd Martin’s got some competition when it comes to ice therapy 🥶:
10:36 Harry Meade and Cavalier Crystal score 32.2.
10:35 Harry looks pleased as they halt at the end of the test. He’s still smiling as he walks out of the arena. A great 5* start for Nell.
10:34 The canter isn’t quite as relaxed as the work that’s come before it, but there are lots of 7s on the scoreboard. The stretch circle gets two 8s and a 7.
10:33 The walk has a good rhythm and she pulls in an 8.5 for the extended. There are lots of highlights in this test.
10:32 After a bit of a sticky halt which got 5s across the board, ‘Nell’ is working well in the trot work with lots of 7s coming in. Harry halts smack on the center line at C and the halt is better than the first.
10:31 This pair hover around the 30-mark a fair bit of the time in this phase. At their two 4* runs this season they’ve posted a 31 and a 34.5 – in their most recent run in the 3* at Alnwick, they went sub-30 with a 28.6. What will it be on their first time together in the Burghley arena?
10:30 Next up the center line, for the second time today, is Harry Meade with Cavalier Crystal.
5* first-timer alert! Cavalier Crystal, not Harry!
Hot form 🌶️ This season, the pair have had two top-5 results at 4*.
Miss Reliable – The mare has completed all nineteen of her FEI runs.
🏹 A man with a number of strings to his bow, Harry has a degree in Art History as well as being a familiar voice in the commentary box and writing for Horse & Hound.
A hugely popular rider, in 2014 Harry was voted rider of the year by the Event Horse Owners Association, the Event Riders Association, The British Equestrian Writers Association and Horse & Hound.
I’m always keen to see what color pants Harry will wear for the First Horse Inspection. Lilac:
10:29 It’s a personal best for Bradeley Law in his final test! 36. What a pleasure it is to watch this lovely guy.
10:28 There’s a hug and a big pat at the end of that test for Bradeley Law from Michael and a huge clap from the crowd.
10:27 There are some 7s coming in for the canter work. Bradeley Law’s relaxing into his work and everything’s accurate and obedient. Carl Hester says what a happy looking horse this is, and I totally agree – he seems to be smiling.
10:26 Michael’s opted to ride without spurs here, as is allowed in eventing dressage. Bradeley Law is relaxing into the contact in the walk work and it’s all correct in terms of rhythm.
10:25 Bradeley Law looks rideable and is in a lovely uphill frame. Everything is accurate and steady and they look a picture together.
10:24 At 5* we’re realistically looking at high-30s in the first phase – at Burghley last year he posted a 38.6, although at Bicton 5* in 2021 he scored 36.8. But enough of that. Let’s just enjoy his lovely face for the last time at the top level. (Sniff 🥹)
10:23 For their final trip up the center line together, next up we have Michael Owen and the nineteen-year-old Bradeley Law, who will be retiring directly after Burghley.
This pair have had ten years together – this is their fourth attempt at Burghley and I’ve got everything crossed that it’s a happy swan song for this lovely gelding.
He looked gorgeous at the First Horse Inspection – a total celebration of a true event horse.
Fun fact! Bradeley Law loves his job so much that after Michael came unstuck at Badminton in 2016, the game fellow jumped three fences on his way back to the stables!
Bradeley Law has made steady progress in this phase, with some of the best results of his career coming this season. He was 16th in his latest outing at Alnwick in the 4*-S in July, where he posted a dressage score of 34.6.
Not content with one equestrian discipline, in 2010 Michael jockeyed a winner in his debut race. 🏇
Out of the saddle, he unwinds from all the adrenaline of equestrianism with a round a golf. ⛳
Look at that face 😍:
10:22 Jessica Phoenix and Wabbit score 34.9. It’s a massive personal best. Jessie’s beaming and Wabbit looks incredibly pleased with himself as he stands for a clap from the crowd.
10:21 The left to right change isn’t so easy and the marks drop a little. There’s been tension throughout but Wabbit’s kept it under control. It’s two 8s and a 7.5 for the final halt. Overall, this has been a good test for them.
10:20 The changes so far are accurate and clean and Wabbit pulls in 7s across the board for the half pass. Jessie can’t really push for the extended canter but the change when they come back is very good for a 7.
10:19 It’s 7s and a 7.5 for the rein back but the tightness is still there in the walk. Wabbit’s got really tense now and breaks into trot. Jessie’s having to ride very carefully to keep a lid on this.
10:18 We’re looking at 6.5s and 7s for the trot work. Wabbit’s doing everything right, he’s just a bit tight and so won’t reach those higher marks.
10:17 Wabbit gets two 8s for his entry and halt. A great start.
10:16 They’ve been mid to high-30s in the first phase this season, with a 35.9 last time out at the Nations Cup in Arville. It was 39.4 at Kentucky. What will it be at Burghley?
10:15 Next it the turn of Canada’s Jessica Phoenix and the splendidly named Wabbit.
OTTB alert! 🏇 Wabbit is a full Thoroughbred – he only earned $2200 in five starts though, clearly he was made for eventing.
Jessie and Wabbit have been named to the 2023 Equestrian Canada High Performance National Squad.
This is Wabbit’s fourth 5* start, and first outside North America.
Wabbit’s a tough guy who relishes a challenge, which we’ll see in boatloads on Saturday – will he tame all that sped and power for the dressage though?
10:14 Kristina Hall-Jackson and CMS Google score 32.6.
10:13 Kristina’s smiling at the end and Google gets a lot of pats for her efforts. Good girl Google!
10:12 There’s more anticipation in the changes but Google takes the contact forward well in the stretch circle for an 8. There’s 7s across the board for the change afterwards.
10:11 The halt at C wasn’t very square, nor was the first one. Google’s relaxed in the walk but, as Carl Hester says from the commentary box, it needs more purpose. There’s rhythm though and Kristina will be taking calculated risks. Google anticipates the canter transition showing what Kristina was working with in the walk really.
10:11 Google’s looking settled in her trot work so far. They’re presenting a nice picture and their partnership is clear to see. They score an 8 for the half pass.
10:10 Historically, Google has found the dressage to be a bit tricky. She’s squeaked sub-30 a couple of times, but is more likely to hover around the mid-30s mark – at Burghley last year, she posted a 33, at Badminton in the spring it was 30.9.
10:09 Kicking off the final session of the day is Kristina Hall-Jackson with the best Christmas present ever, CMS Google.
Baby rider 👶 Kristina has been riding since she was 18 months old!
This is Kristina and Google’s third 5* outing – their first was Burghley last year where they finished 25th. They were 29th at Badminton in the spring.
Google was characteristically looky at the Horse Inspection yesterday – just checking out all the peeps who’d come to watch her, and only her.
🐣➡️🦁 Kristina describes Google as ‘the biggest chicken’ at home and ‘brave as a lion’ at events.
Fun fact! Google is scared of the dark!
Kristina is part of the Wesko Equestrian Foundation, under the mentorship of Pippa Funnell.
Boop:
9:45 It’s time for a break now. No change at the top of the leaderboard. The final session starts back at 3:10pm BST / 10:10am EST.
In case you were wondering, there were 21 Prince references in the updates for DHI Purple Rain! ☔
9:44 Andy Heffernan and Harthill Phantom score 35.2.
9:43 Harthill Phantom definitely looks fit and ready to run cross country on Saturday. They finish with an 8 for the final halt, so a nice end for them.
9:42 There are some 7s coming in for the canter work and the changes are there and clean, but not big scoring.
9:40 This is a very accurate test, despite the tension. There are two 8s for the halt at C. The walk is similar to the trot really, it’s there but it could be quite a bit more relaxed.
9:39 There’s still some tension happening but Andy’s using all of his experience to deliver a positive, confident ride. Nothing’s going wrong, but it’s not really relaxed.
9:38 A very nice straight entry, but there are a couple of steps during the halt. The scores are 4, 5, 5 to start.
9:37 We’re running a smidge early, so Andy’s just taking his time round the Main Arena. He doesn’t have to start ’til his official time. Harthill Phantom seems to be holding his breath about as he trots round the ring. Hopefully he’ll relax a bit before he enters the arena.
9:36 This season their scores in this phase range from 35.2 to 28.3 – their best coming at their most recent outing. What will it be at Burghley?
9:35 Last before the break is British-based Dutch rider Andy Heffernan and his 5* debutant Harthill Phantom.
This is Andy’s first 5* since 2017.
Winner winner 🍗 This combination have some hot recent form – they won the 4*-S at Aston Le Walls a few weeks ago, their last run before the big B.
A man with many hats 🤠 Andy’s just back from the European Championships – where the Dutch team secured Olympic qualification and where Andy was player-manager – acting as pathfinder and team manager. He’s also a BE accredited trainer and cross country designer.
When he’s not wearing one of his many equestrian hats, he enjoys a game of squash 🎾
It’s off to Paris for the Dutch team – Allez!:
9:34 Matt Heath and Askari score 32.1. There’s a nod and thumbs up from Matt.
9:33 The first flying change is great, but the second is a little muddled. Muffin works round the stretch circle and then does a great change, and then another one.
9:32 There’s an 8 in the rein back scores. Muffin’s really stretching for the contact in the walk – a 9 comes in for the extended.
9:31 Muffin is nearly floating from his trot work. He pulls in 7.5s across the board for the extended. This really is a pleasure to watch and Muffin is a picture as he makes his way round the ring with that big white face.
9:30 Based on recent form, we’re looking at high-20s / low-30s here. It was a 31.3 last time out, 29.3 the time before that. What will Burghley bring?
9:29 Next into the ring will be Matt Heath, who’s swapped his Burghley Radio headset for a riding helmet to bring Askari forward for the horse’s first 5*.
Did you know? ‘Askari’ means policeman in Swahili. Not nearly so cute as his stable name – ‘Muffin’🧁
Matt made his 5* debut at Burghley back in 2013 with fan-fave The Lion. Together they had six Burghley starts.
Burghleys past – Matt was a mounted steward at Burghley before he got the chance to come here and compete.
Muffin was brought through 3* by Dickie Waygood before Matt took the reins in 2019.
He looked incredibly relaxed at the Horse Inspection yesterday as he waited for a horse to represent before taking his turn to trot-up. Let’s see if that extra arena time has stood him in good stead for today.
😍 There’s nothing quite like a horse with a big white blaze:
9:28 Luc Chateau and Viens du Mont score 41.9.
9:26 Oh no, the bell’s rung for an error of course – it looked like he was starting a circle at the wrong end. And again. Poor Luc. What a tough thing to deal with. He gets back on track without another error (which would result in elimination), and they finish. Luc shakes his head. A real shame. They’ll have way more fun out on cross country, that’s for sure.
9:25 The walk’s a little tentative at times, but it’s all accurate. It’s similar in the canter work – it’s tentative rather than Luc really riding for it, but all the transitions are lovely.
9:24 A little bit of resistance in the rein back sees scores of 5 and 5.5. Luc takes a big breath before the walk begins.
9:23 There’s already an 8 on the board for their entry, so Viens is off to a great start. There’s nice positioning in the shoulder in for 7s across the board.
9:22 They’ve scored as low as 32.9 in the dressage at 3* and as much as 47.5 at 4*. At 5* they’ve had a 37 and a 39.8. They’ll be climbing the leaderboard on Saturday though for sure, with no cross country penalties in their 19 FEI runs.
9:21 French rider Luc Chateau is next up with Viens du Mont.
Viens du Mont’s last two FEI outings were CCI5*s, and now he comes forward for his third.
Top-10! Last year’s home soil top level debut for the pair at Pau saw them finish in 9th place.
They had an impressive 11th place finish at this year’s tricky Badminton, where they didn’t let the weather get to them, jumping clear cross country and proving that they could handle just about any going.
Foal alert! 😍 Luc and his wife run a breeding program at home in France and welcomed a foal out of Michael Jung’s superstar mare FischerRocana a few months ago.
Family guy – Luc competed the stallion at the center of the enterprise, Propriano de l’Ebat, until 2018.
Foal spam! FischerRocana and her totally adorable little one:
9:20 Alice Casburn and Topspin score 35.8.
9:19 The second change is great and Spinach seems to be working nicely with Alice. The final two changes are late but overall this has been a nice test for Spinach, with a couple of expensive changes.
9:18 The walk gets a bit tentative coming towards the canter transition, but before that it had been relaxed and pulled in some nice marks. The first change was a little late.
9:16 Spinach is looking very rideable in the Main Arena at Burghley, although he could show a bit more suppleness for higher marks. The extended trot scores 7s across the boards and there’s an 8 for the halt and another for the rein back.
9:15 This would be their weakest phase – the can score from the mid to high-30s, although they did dip to a 33.6 as Burghley last year.
9:14 One of the youngest riders here – but not the youngest this time – is up next – Alice Casburn with her homebred gelding Topspin.
👟 Alice was another member of the sneaker squad at the First Horse Inspection – I approve, ladies.
Don’t be fooled by her youth – this is their fifth 5* and they’ve completed at all of their previous top-level starts. They were 5th here last year.
What have tennis and eventing got in common? 🎾🏇 All of the Casburn homebreds have tennis related names.
Family connection – Topspin is a second generation homebred and Alice’s mom competed his grandmother.
In the barn info! ‘Spinach’ (as he’s fondly known) lives in the same stable he was born in.
Not many people can say they’ve bred a 5* combination:
9:13 Francis Whittington an DHI Purple Rain score 34.9.
9:12 Things go a bit wayward in the corner which affects the flying change. There’s a bit of tension creeping in and Prince seems to anticipate some of the transitions and movements. It was far from his days of wild type test he can do when he’s feeling hot though. Francis did a great job in there.
9:11 Prince is willing and able in the walk – it’s all about that walk. Prince stays with Francis, who’s giving the gelding a peach of a ride – very tactful riding happening here.
9:10 There are plenty of 7s coming in, and an 8 for the half pass. There’s lots of flow and two more 8s for the halt.
9:09 Francis and Prince get off to a nice start with a straight entry. There’s a bit of a wobble as they leave the halt but Prince is showing off all of his expression in the trot work.
9:08 The Xpectation is low to mid-30s in this phase, but it all depends on how much of a hot thing Prince is on alphabet street today. The truth is, at Badminton he put down a 41. How fiery is this sexy dancer feeling? Let’s hope it’s more ‘let’s work’ than ‘let’s go crazy’. U got the look, Prince – nothing compares 2 u – now it’s time to dance 4 me!
9:07 Here’s a (not so) cryptic clue to who we’ll be seeing next…
Could this be, the most beautiful horse in the world..? Enter Francis Whittington and DHI Purple Rain.
In case you hadn’t worked it out, DHI Purple Rain’s stable name is ‘Prince’. 💜
Just for fun, I will attempt to infiltrate the following updates with Prince songs/albums… How many can you spot? (Answer in the break.)
If, like me, you’ve got a penchant for striking black horses, Prince is definitely the one u wanna c. Everything about this extravagant gelding says, my name is Prince and baby I’m a star! 🌟
At this year’s soft and wet edition of Badminton, he finished just outside the top-20, after eating up the difficult ground on the cross country and producing an impressive clear.
Career move ⏩ Francis worked in equine dentistry before becoming a full-time eventer. Open wide! 🦷
Prince can get quite worked up between the white boards, so we’ll hope that he’s feeling calm and collected as he gets his Burghley underway.
Francis brought him in as quietly as possible at the Horse Inspection yesterday and despite plenty of ‘woos’ from Francis, Prince pranced his way down the jog strip, stepping out like the star he is.
9:06 Tim Cheffings and Gaston score 41.2.
9:05 They’ll have an error penalty of minus 2 marks for that slip up. They end on a lovely square halt for 7s across the board, and a big sigh from Tim. Gaston’s relaxed as he walks out of the ring, very pleased with his day’s work.
9:04 The fussiness continues into the canter. There are nice moments, but then it slips a bit. Overall the test is accurate though, and Gaston is rideable. Ah, the bell’s rung – they’ve missed the stretch circle. Tim goes back to it and they’re back on their way.
9:02 The extended trot pulls in two 7s followed by a good halt for a 7 and a 7.5. Gaston’s shaking his head a little in the walk, but he’s staying in walk and not fussing too much.
9:01 Gaston has an extravagant medium trot but stumbles a little at the end of it. There’s a little fussing going on which is impacting on the balance slightly at times.
9:00 In his two runs this season, Gaston’s scored 37.7 and 38.5. How will he find his first 5* dressage test? Let’s see.
8:59 Now it’s the turn of Tim Cheffings and Gaston.
5* first-timer alert! This is Gaston’s first attempt at the level. Tim’s been here before – in 2014.
Gaston was quite looky looky at the Horse Inspection yesterday – just checking out what this whole Burghley thing’s about 👀
Gaston seems to be peaking at just the right time – his last outing saw him have his second highest placing – top-20 in the 4*L at Bramham.
Tim’s a former Pony Clubber and is now a mentor to riders from Pony Club to Advanced.
8:58 Phil Brown and Harry Robinson score 41.3 and get a big cheer.
8:57 They put in a clean change and Harry’s still looking happy. There are marks being dropped in places due to accuracy – it costs them dearly in the second change with 1s and 2s. But overall, Phil looks very happy at the final halt. Harry’s been a good lad.
8:56 The walk is calm, it’s a bit tentative, but Harry’s on board with Phil.
8:55 So far so good. Harry’s looking rideable and happy enough in his work.
8:54 It’s a very nice start from Phil and Harry – dead straight down the center line and looking like they mean business.
8:53 Dressage is not Harry’s favorite bit – like any eventer worth his salt that’d be cross country, of course. They scored a 49.9 last time out, but it was 35.3 here last year. What’ll it be today?
8:52 Next up the center line is Phil Brown with Harry Robinson.
Note: Phil is the rider 🙋 – Harry is the horse 🐴
This is Phil and Harry’s second time at Burghley – they made their 5* debut here last year, completing in 27th to great celebration at the culmination of a dream come true.
Phil was local to Burghley for a number of years – so local he could see the house from his arena. He’s based in Yorkshire now, but Burghley remains close to his heart.
Total kismet ✨ Harry was actually sold for a while, but found his way back to Phil and here they are.
Harry (left) and Phil (right) cut quite the dashing picture at the Horse Inspection yesterday – Phil won best dressed male with his three-piece suit:
8:51 Lauren Innes and Global Fision M score 46. Flipper’s much happier once he’s back with his groom getting lots of pats.
8:50 Flipper frolics out of the ring, going every way but forwards.
8:49 Flipper’s still not really settled as he does his canter work. Lauren’s doing a lovely job staying calm and there are some nice moments in this test. Overall though, they’re struggling for the scores because he’s feeling a bit hot. He’s very ready for Saturday.
8:48 The walk was really rather tense and Flipper was very keen to get into the canter – that affected their transition marks which were 4.5s.
8:47 So far so good for Flipper and Lauren. Oh, as I typed that Flipper broke out of the trot and his head went up. Lauren got him back though and they’re back up to 7s after dropped to 2s and 3s.
8:46 Potential fireworks alert 🎆 He’s a bit of a quirky horse and, as we saw on the jog strip, gets hot, hot, hot. Let’s hope he got it out of his system yesterday. It was a 46.4 at Badminton, and they’ve been as high as 52.7 this season, when they found themselves warming up in an empty arena and Flipper got quite upset. But it was a 32.1 last time out. Let’s see what transpires here today.
8:45 Getting us back into the swing of things it’s New Zealand rider Lauren Innes and Global Fision M.
In her other life… Lauren is a full-time accountant – ‘Flipper’, Lauren’s only upper-level horse, spends his days in the field while Lauren’s at work.
Long-time love 💞 This pair have been together since Flipper was a five-year-old.
Flipper sure showed his speed at the Horse Inspection yesterday with the fastest trot-up ever. He even threw in a half pass and a jump or two. It took some serious wither tickles from Lauren to get him to sensibly show the Jury what they were looking for.
You may think you’ve seen Lauren down as a British rider, and you’d be right – this season, she swapped nationality, taking on her father’s Kiwi status.
This is their first visit to Burghley, although they’ve completed at Badminton twice.
Flipper sure does like to take a good look around:
7:00 What a morning’s dressage we’ve had!
In the lead is Ros Canter with Pencos Crown Jewel on a score of 26.9.
Second is Emily King with Valmy Biats on 30.
And third equal we have Oliver Townend and Tregilder and Tom McEwen and Luna Mist on 30.5.
The USA’s Boyd Martin with On Cue is in 6th on 31.8.
It’s time for a well-earned lunch break now, after which the second half of today’s competition will get their turn between the white boards. We’ll be back at 1:45pm BST / 8:45am EST. Until then…
6:59 Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue score 35.1.
6:58 Bar the changes, this test has been clean and accurate. Austin looks disappointed as he finishes. In his interview he’s very clear about that. He thinks something flew in Salty’s ear right at the start of the test making him shake his head throughout. He’s a great cross country horse though – we saw that at Badminton – so hopefully things will shape up for him as the competition continues.
6:57 Everything’s very correct, without being hugely expressive. Salty’s changes are sometimes a problem though, and that’s no different here. There’s a bit of hesitation and the scores drop slightly, but then pick back up.
6:56 Salty’s looking just as beautiful in the Main Arena as he did yesterday at the Horse Inspection. He’s forward and attentive to Austin. He clips the board and loses rhythm for a second but they’re quickly back on track.
6:55 Generally speaking, they’re a low to mid-30s pair. It was a 31.9 for him at Badminton – how will their Burghley debut kick off?
6:54 Finishing up the morning session we have Ireland’s Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue.
🧂 ‘Salty’ showed he’s an event horse truly worth his salt at this year’s tricky Badminton edition – he finished 3rd after storming round the muddy track. Last year he was 8th – finishing on his dressage of 35.9.
Olympic call-up – He competed in Tokyo after stepping up when Cathal Daniels had to withdraw – he finished 13th overall.
He’s also been to the World Championships, where he finished in the top 20.
This is his fourth 5* start and first Burghley. The last time an Irish rider won Burghley was in 1963 – can Austin bring it home for Ireland 60 years later? ☘️
Salty looking fabulous at the Horse Inspection:
6:53 Christoffer Forsberg and Con Classic 2 score 38.4.
6:52 There’s another muddled change which gets 3s. It’s a shame because everything else was accurate and Con Classic looked to be working nicely for Christoffer.
6:51 There’s a blip in the flying change which is full of tension – two 4s and a 5 for that will drop their trending score, which was full of 6s and 7s.
6:50 Con Classic is a little fussy in the contact through the walk at times, but everything’s still accurate and solid overall.
6:49 The trot work is balanced and rhythmical and consistent, there could be more expression and energy in the steps though for the higher marks.
6:48 At 4* this season, they’ve scored everything from 33.9 (at their last outing) to 39.2. Where will they land today?
6:47 Returning to Burghley after a 13 year break, next into the arena will be Sweden’s Christoffer Forsberg with Con Classic 2.
This is Christoffer’s first 5* since his debut, here at Burghley in 2010 when Christoffer was nineteen.
It’s a first 5* for Con Classic 2, who, as a ten-year-old is one of the youngest horses in the field.
Like quite a few eventers, Christoffer has been stuck back together again by science – he’s got an extra six screws and two metal plates than he was born with.
6:45 Ros Canter and Pencos Crown Jewel go into the lead to a massive cheer from the crowd! It’s sub-30… It’s 26.9.
6:44 There’s an 8 and two 7.5s for the stretch circle followed by a clear and accurate change. The next change is slightly early and scored accordingly. Two 8s and a 9 to finish though. Score incoming..!
6:42 The halt is much better than the first one on the center line and scores an 8. Jasmine looks relaxed in the walk and there are lots more 7s coming in. We may have been hoping for a lower trending score, but the work is all great and the attention to detail Ros puts into riding her test is apparent.
6:41 A super medium trot from Jasmine scores 7.5s across the board. It’s a lovely start for Ros and Jasmine – everything is as accurate and correct as we expect from Ros.
6:40 They tend to score in the highish-20s in this first phase – it was a 27.3 last time out, and a 29.2 at Badminton. But if we look at last year’s Burghley – a 24.2 – that would put them right in the mix here. Will we see our first sub-30? 👀
6:39 Next up is our new European Champion Ros Canter with Badminton winner and equine European Champion Walter’s half-sister, Pencos Crown Jewel.
Ros got a huge cheer from the crowd at the First Horse Inspection, and ‘Jasmine’ took the whole atmosphere entirely in her stride. Let’s hope she’s as level-headed and focused for her test today.
This is their fourth start at the level – they were 4th on their debut at Bicton in 2021, 11th at Burghley last year, and 9th at Badminton in the spring.
Together from the start – Ros started Jasmine off under the saddle, so it’s fair to say this pair know each other pretty well.
Behind the scenes… Jasmine is teased for being “Miss Health and Safety” at home as she’s always checking everything out. She loves her field and hacking on a long rein, but isn’t so happy when it comes to being caught.
Ros had super-cute cartoons drawn by Sarah Charnley depicting all her horse family’s personalities. Here’s Miss Health and Safety 👷♀️:
6:38 Nicky Hill and MGH Bingo Boy score 36.9.
6:37 The tension continues, but Bing’s more receptive in the final movements. He reacts to the applause, showing that he was carrying a fair bit of tension throughout that test. Nicky did a great job keeping everything as calm as she did.
6:36 And now things have gone a bit awry. The canter breaks and Bing doesn’t fancy the half pass – they score 4s across the board. The half pass left is much better though.
6:35 Bing relaxes into the contact nicely in the extended walk but anticipates the transition to canter.
6:34 Bing seems to have settled into his Burghley as he trots round the arena. He’s not the flashiest but he’s performing the movements as Nicky’s asking him to and seems happy to work for her. They get 7s for the halt.
6:33 We’re looking at mid-30s in this phase – they put down a 35.8 at Badminton. Let’s see if Bing’s got his excitement from yesterday out of his system…
6:32 It’s Nicky Hill and MGH Bingo Boy’s turn next.
‘Bing’ boinged over the flower decoration at the Horse Inspection yesterday afternoon, so let’s hope he’s realized cross country isn’t ‘til Saturday and has got his dressage head on today!
This is their second time at Burghley – they came here in 2019 and were 27th.
All the smarts 🎓 Nicky has a degree in Biology and Sport Science.
All the sports ⛷️🧗 When she’s not eventing, Nicky enjoys skiing and climbing.
Cheeky boy 🐒 Nicky describes Bing as a “massive character” and knows just where to look if there’s trouble on the yard – “you can guarantee it’s down to him,” she says.
6:31 Greta Mason and Cooley For Sure score 32.2. Revised score for Emily King – 30 – so no sub-30s yet.
6:29 Murphy doesn’t really take the contact in the stretch circle, but the following changes are very good. The final trot up the center line pulls in an 8 and Murphy shakes his head, clearly pleased with himself.
6:27 Murphy’s anticipating the canter slightly at the end of the trot work, and he starts to trot a stride before the transition. The first change is clean though for 6.5s across the board.
6:25 It’s a solid start for Greta and Murphy with 7s for much of the trot work. Murphy looks to be working well with Greta and is happy in his work. Everything could be a little more expressive for higher marks, but so far so good.
6:25 They trend in the low-30s in this phase before their favorite phase – cross country, of course – sees them with a bit of wiggle room up the rankings.
6:24 Next into the ring will be Greta Mason and Cooley For Sure, coming forward for their third 5* together.
It’s their first Burghley but not their first 5* – they were 14th at Pau last year.
Burghley connection – Greta was a member of the Burghley Pony Club and so has ridden at Burghley before – just not in the 5*!
🥈 They were second in the British U25 championship at Bramham last year, finishing on their dressage of 34.1.
Greta describes ‘Murphy’ as being part of the family – in fact, the gelding was originally bought for Greta’s twin brother.
Greta is coached by former Badminton winner Rodney Powell.
She was looking fresh in a fancy hat with feathers at the Horse Inspection yesterday, and Murphy looked equally fresh as he frolicked his way down the jog strip.
6:23 Emily King and Valmy Biats score 29.4 – our first sub-30 and into the lead.
6:22 Things get a bit tight for the last two changes, which drop their trending score slightly. But there’s two 8s for the final halt. Do we have a new leader?
6:21 There’s 8s for the medium canter but the first change is really quite muddled. The second one is much better though.
6:20 The scores drop a bit for the halt and rein back, which wasn’t absolutely straight. They’re back up for the walk work though, which is relaxed and accurate.
6:19 Emily’s Burghley debut has got off to a solid start. There’s a lovely expression and outline in the trot work and they’re pulling in 7s and 7.5. Everything’s consistent and rhythmical and there’s an 8 for the half pass and two for the extended.
6:18 This pair could potentially give us our first score in the 20s. They scored 31.3 at Badminton but have shown that they’re well capable of mid to high-20s at the level – they posted a 25.5 at Pau last year and 28.4 at Luhmuhlen. Let’s see how they show up today. 👀
6:17 Next up the center line is Emily King with Valmy Biats for their first Burghley.
They come here from Badminton after Emily decided ‘Valmy’ wasn’t enjoying the muddy ground. Before that, they won the 4*-S at Thoresby Park.
👟 Emily was doing it for the sneaker crew down the jog strip yesterday, to which I say, hooray!
Live the dream… Valmy Biats is part owned by the Event Horse Owners Syndicate – you can buy a tiny part of him for around £95!
Hot to trot 🏃 Emily must be pretty fit – she ran the London Marathon earlier this year, along with her partner fellow eventer Sam Ecroyd, raising money for The Brain and Spine Foundation.
They come here fresh off a 3rd place finish at Alnwick in the 4*-S, where they posted a 24.9 in this phase.
At home 🏡 – Emily lives in North Wales, not too far from me! Check out the view in the best way possible – between the ears:
6:16 Zara Tindall and Class Affair score 31.4.
6:15 Another lovely halt to finish, with a 9 from one of the judges – 7 and 7.5 from the others.
6:14 Everything looks accurate in the canter work, things could be a little more expressive for the higher marks, but all’s going well for 6s and 7s.
6:13 Socks is working really nicely with Zara in the walk work – the homework in this phase is clearly paying off.
6:12 There’s lovely bend in the half pass and Socks shows off his socks in the extended trot.
6:11 Class Affair kicks off the session with a lovely straight entry and square halt for two 8s and a 7.5. A super start!
6:10 They posted a personal best of 28.4 in the first phase here last year. They haven’t managed sub-30 since, but the highest they’ve been is 33.3. What will it be today?
6:09 Getting us back underway is Zara Tindall with Class Affair.
🏆🏆 Zara is a former European and World Champion. She’s also won Olympic team silver and was voted Sports Personality of the Year in 2006 – an exciting win for eventing breaking into the mainstream.
A more perfect stable name will not be found – ‘Socks’ is clearly named for his stunning – and whiter-than-white – white socks 🧦
Although… Zara also refers to Socks as “the mad guy”.
Third time lucky? They came to Burghley in 2019 but were eliminated after Zara came unstuck at the fence following the drop at the Leaf Pit. They returned last year and retired after a run out – also at the Leaf Pit. It comes early in the course this year and Zara will have everything crossed that third time’s a charm.
Zara and Socks made the trip to Kentucky in the spring, finishing 15th in the 5* there.
Behind the scenes… Zara trains with dressage legends Carl Hester and Amy Woodhead.
Winning genes 👖🥇🥇 – both her mom and dad have won Burghley:
5:45 Updated scores:
Tom McEwen and Luna Mist and Oliver Townend and Tregilder – 30.5
Boyd Martin and On Cue – 31.8
David Doel Galileo Nieuwmoed – 33.7
Wills Oakden and Oughterard Cooley – 34.9
Harry Meade and Away Cruising – 36
Alex Bragg and Quindiva – 39.3
Harry Mutch and Shanbeg Cooley – 44.8
5:44 It’s 39.3 for Alex Bragg and Quindiva.
5:43 We’re heading into the first break now. Alex’s score and any updates to previous scores coming soon. Back in around 20 minutes – at 11:10am BST / 6:10am EST.
5:42 The tension sticks around and Diva’s clipped the boards a couple of times and scooted forward. Alex’ll be glad that’s over. Diva’s still looking around on the way out of the arena. To be fair, there is a lot of atmosphere in that arena.
5:40 She relaxes a bit in the walk but the tail swishing’s back in the canter. Marks are trending mostly in the 6s with some 7s coming in for the half passes.
5:39 Diva’s not wholly relaxed in her trot work, she’s shaking her tail and rushing a little at the start of the test.
5:38 This little mare can go sub-30 in the first phase, but hasn’t managed it yet this season – will this be her time to put her best hoof forward?
5:37 Last before the break we have Alex Bragg and Quindiva for the mare’s second 5*, and Alex’s tenth.
Alex was pretty in pink at the Horse Inspection yesterday, sporting a totally relevant Eventing Collection jacket, with a totally appropriate red flag on his right shoulder and a white one on the left.
Like a lot of the competitors at this year’s wet and wild Badminton edition, this combination retired on course – they’d started out with a 34.3 in this phase.
As her stable name suggests, this mare is a bit of a ‘Diva’, but we all know that with great talent comes big personality!
Career move ⏩ Alex was a farrier before he became a full-time eventer, and shoes all of the Team Bragg horses.
In the club… As a kid, Alex competed in Pony Club mounted games – Alex’s three daughters are all keen Pony Clubbers too!
5:36 Harry Mutch and Shanbeg Cooley score 44.5.
5:34 The potential’s there to see, but they’ve got some useful intel into what to work on over the winter. Jager’s relaxed on the way out of the arena.
5:33 The tension continues in the canter, it’s a bit wobbly and Harry’s staying really calm and collected. This is very much a first at time Burghley type of test. But there’ll be lots of learning going on for both horse and rider.
5:32 Jager’s not really going forward for Harry, who’s riding really sympathetically. The halt and rein back are a bit crooked and Jager puts his head in the air.
5:31 There’s a bit of tension in the trot to start and this nine-year-old seems to be feeling a bit of the atmosphere.
5:30 We’re looking at high-30s, maybe into the 40s here, depending on how hot Jager’s feeling – he’s 5* fit and will be feeling the Burghley atmosphere for the first time. Let’s hope he keeps a lid on all the excitement, at least while he’s in the ring.
5:29 Harry Mutch comes forward next with the first of his two rides, Shanbeg Cooley.
5* first timer! This is a debut at the level for ‘Jager’.
Jager looked total quality as he trotted down the jog strip yesterday. The fact that Harry’s chosen to go first with this nine-year-old shows the confidence he has in this talented fellow.
Harry describes Jager as a “freak” – in the best possible way. He’s a super talented jumper but that exuberance can make the dressage a bit tricky.
‘Divine intervention’? Harry started riding aged 13 by accident. There was a broken down car and a riding lesson booked for his dad, which Harry went to, and the rest is, well, history.
Sport swap 🏉➡️🏇 Harry actually played rugby as a kid and wasn’t interested in horses at all.
It’s in the genes though 🧬 – Harry’s great uncle completed Badminton a number of times.
5:28 Boyd Martin and On Cue score 31.9 and are into third.
5:27 They’re a bit crooked up the center line, and there’s the hint of a resting hind in the halt.
5:26 Things have got a smidge tight in the canter work, but everything’s accurate, just not as soft as it could be. The mare’s late behind in the last change.
5:25 The halt’s a bit abrupt and the rein back happens, but it’ll drop the scores slightly I should think. (We’ve lost the scores on the feed for the time being, sorry.)
5:24 On Cue is showing off all of her elegance throughout her trot work. They’re creating a harmonious picture together in the Burghley Main Arena. Everything is accurate and expressive and a pleasure to watch.
5:23 We’re surely expecting sub-30 here, although she did put down 30.3 at Bromont a couple of weeks ago. What will this talented mare make of Great Britain – and has she brought her winning ways with her? Eyes on. 👀
5:22 Ready? Yo VIP, let’s kick it! 🛀
That’s right, kicking off the American campaign is none other than the ice man himself, Boyd Martin and On Cue for the USA.
It’s no secret that Boyd is partial to a nippy dip, but have you ever wondered where his love of ice baths comes from? Perhaps it’s in the genes 👖 – Boyd’s parents met at the Winter Olympics – his mom competed in speed skating ⛸️ and his dad in cross-country skiing ⛷️- so that’s why he’s so speedy across the country!
He may be the ice man, but he’s on hot form! 🌶️ Boyd won the 2*-L, 3*-L and 4*-S all in one weekend at Bromont in June! He’s had 12 top 3 finishes this season and is currently the top rider on the USEA leaderboard.
On Cue comes forward for her third 5* and first trip overseas 🛬
🥉 🥇 She was 3rd in her debut at the level at Kentucky, then won at Maryland where she posted a 25 in this phase. She’s an exciting talent, that’s for sure.
On Cue takes in Burghley:
5:21 Tom McEwen and Luna Mist go into the lead with 30.5.
5:20 Ideally we’d like a bit more stretch in the stretch circle, but there’s more 7s for the changes which follow and a lovely square halt at the end for another 8. This is a test which has oozed of a partnership between horse and rider.
5:19 There’s an 8 for the transition into canter and lots of 7s for the first two changes.
5:17 Tom’s riding forward and seems to be really going for it and Tuna’s responding. She’s a bit crooked in the rein back but she’s moved into walk nicely and is stepping out for Tom while maintaining the relaxation.
5:16 It’s a beautiful start for this exciting young mare – there’s an 8.5 for the entry!
5:15 Based on form, we’re looking at a sub-30 score here, but this is an inexperienced mare who’s experiencing the Burghley atmosphere for the first time. Let’s see how she likes it.
5:14 Joining us next between the white boards is Tokyo gold and silver medalist, World No. 2 Tom McEwen with Luna Mist.
5* first-timer alert! At just a ten-year-old, this is the mare’s first time at the level. She had a good look ‘round at the First Horse Inspection, just seeing what this 5* stuff’s all about.
🐟 At home, she’s affectionately referred to as ‘Tuna’.
Tom’s had the ride since last season – he describes her as “a proper little fighter”, just what you need in a Burghley horse.
🌟 She was highest placed mare in the 4*-L at Bramham in June.
👟 Tom stays 5* fit through running – in fact, he ran the London Marathon in support of Alzheimer’s Research UK last year.
Meanwhile, in the off-season from eventing…:
5:13 Galileo’s a bit bouncy on the way out of the arena. It’s 33.7 for David Doel and Galileo Nieuwmoed.
5:12 They finish up with a lovely square halt for 7.5, 7.5 and 8.
5:11 The canter work is consistently nice, the half pass is soft and smooth. He tucks his head in rather than out in the stretch circle though, so the marks drop back to 6s.
5:09 Galileo is relaxed in his body but isn’t totally consistent in the contact, which is affecting their marks, which are staying in the 6s on the whole through the trot work. They’ve picked up for the walk though and Galileo’s looking a bit more relaxed now.
5:08 They went sub-30 at Pau in 2021 with a 29.7 in this phase. They haven’t managed it since, but they do mostly stay in the very low-30s, and with his tendency to finish on his dressage, it’ll be very interesting to see what they put down here. 👀
5:07 Next up the center line is David Doel and the striking Galileo Nieuwmoed.
‘Galileo’ looked like he knows he’s fabulous as he strutted his stuff on the jog strip yesterday.
Early talent 🌟 Galileo tackled his first 4* at Le Pin Au Haras as an eight-year-old in 2019 – finishing on his dressage and coming second.
🖐️ This is his fifth 5* start. His first came at Pau in 2021 where he was 15th. A year later he burst onto the Badminton leaderboard, finishing 6th with David the highest-placed Badminton first-timer.
In his last run – at Hartpury, an event that’s considered a good indicator for Burghley success – he was 2nd, finishing on his dressage of 32.6.
Sizzling stat! 🔥 Galileo has finished on his dressage in all of his runs this season.
When it’s cool to be wrong… Initially David didn’t think Galileo was the horse for him ⏩ to today and he admits that Galileo’s “really cool”.
Galileo often looks a little grumpy, but he loves people to stop for a chat and to blow on his nose.
5:06 It’s 34.9 for Wills Oakden and Oughterard Cooley.
5:05 The final change gets 4s and a 3. They complete with lots of pats for Rich from Wills.
5:04 The scores are picking up in the canter work with more 7s than 6s coming in now. The scores drop a bit for the changes.
5:03 Rich wasn’t really up for standing still and is grinding his teeth at times. He’s performing the walk, but it’s tentative.
5:02 Rich looks quality as he trots round the Burghley Main Arena in the sun. He’s working nicely for Wills and pulling in some 7s. It’s perhaps a bit rushed for the higher marks at the minute.
5:01 They scored 32.4 in the first phase here last year – the gelding’s first 5* – their best dressage score at any level. It was 34.6 at Badminton. How will today’s test compare?
5:00 They were pathfinders at Badminton, they’re third up at Burghley – here’s Scotland-based Wills Oakden and Oughterard Cooley.
Wills was showing off some Scottish flair on the jog strip yesterday with some natty tartan pants and matching bow tie.
‘Rich’ made his 5* debut last year here at Burghley, where he finished 13th, and he really showed his mettle when he finished 12th at the particularly tough Badminton in the spring. He was 6th last time out – in the 4*-S at Alnwick – very nearly finishing on his dressage of 34.9.
Breeding info: Rich has the same sire and dam sire as Wills’ other ride, Arklow Puissance.
Eventing idol 🤩 As a teenager, Wills worked for Ian Stark, one of his sporting heroes.
Wills made his 5* debut in 2013, but then faced a gap of six years before returning to the level at Badminton in 2019.
In the genes 👖 Wills’ dad and aunt have both completed Badminton.
Rich eyeing up his two biggest fans:
4:59 Oliver Townend and Tregilder score 30.3. Oliver looks a bit upset by the mark, he obviously felt the test had gone a bit better than that.
4:58 Oliver looks happy to have got his Burghley underway and Tregilder’s walking out of the arena looking very relaxed after a nice square halt to finish.
4:56 They’re trending above average in their scores right now, by just a bit. Tregilder breaks into trot for a second in the corner but Oliver’s quick to get things back on track.
4:55 There’s a nice swing in the walk work, which is fluid and of course, Oliver’s riding everything totally accurately. There’s an 8 for the canter transition.
4:53 Oliver and Tregilder are producing a smart test so far. There are lots of 7s coming in. Tregilder is relaxing and in a lovely rhythm.
4:52 We’re expecting a sub-30 score in this phase for Oliver and Tregilder. His best at the level was here at Burghley last year when he posted a 27.5.
4:51 Another rider who’s here triple-handed, British Olympic team gold medalist Oliver Townend gets his Burghley underway with Tregilder.
Oliver looked like a man on a mission at the Horse Inspection yesterday – he was wearing his Tokyo Olympics suit 🥇
Tregilder’s known as ‘Gizmo’ at home – so Oliver will be hoping for a dry few days then ☔ Remember people, no midnight snacks for Gizmo! And please can the photographers turn off all flashes? 🫣
Oliver’s brought Gizmo up through the FEI levels. This is the gelding’s fourth 5*.
He’d jumped a brilliant clear at Burghley last year when he fell a couple of fences from home. Oliver will be looking to put that right here this year.
Hot form! 🌶️ Gizmo comes here straight off a win in the 4*-S at Alnwick – he’s also been 9th at Luhmuhlen 5*, as well as having 3rd and 4th placings this season.
Royal approval 👑 Oliver was awarded an MBE for his services to equestrianism by the late Queen of England in 2022.
Fun fact! Oliver’s mom showed side-saddle.
Oliver contemplates the upcoming task:
4:50 Score for Harry Meade and Away Cruising – 36.5. Note – scores are provisional at this stage.
4:49 And that’s it, the first test of Burghley is done!
4:48 There’s some tension creeping in as the test goes on. Harry’s encouraging the gelding along but there’s a feeling that he could be giving a bit more. The first change is a untidy, but the second is better.
4:47 Away Cruising is working really nicely in the walk work, he softens down in the extended although he’s a bit awkward in the mouth in the canter transition. Lots of 6s and 7s coming in.
4:46 Harry’s off to a lovely start with Away Cruising – he’s looking soft and supple as he gets his Burghley going.
4:45 This phase typically sees them trending in the low 30s – but they managed sub-30 at Badminton with 29. Their last run a couple of weeks ago saw them creep back up again. What will Burghley bring?
4:44 Kicking off the 2023 edition of Burghley with the first of his three rides is Harry Meade with Away Cruising.
This gorgeous gray – known at home as ‘Spot’ – brings forward a wealth of experience, with five 5* completions under his girth.
He finished 16th at Badminton, posting 29 in the first phase – his season’s-best score. His best 5* finish is 6th at Burghley in 2018.
Behind the scenes… At home, Away Cruising loves hacking with Harry’s two children and their ponies.
Hot form 🔥 Harry is currently sitting in second place on the British Eventing leaderboard for cross country jump clears – 51 out of 55 runs this year. He’s also in equal second for show jumping clears.
Not just an event rider… Harry delivered his son at home when baby Charlie refused to wait for the ambulance to arrive. If he decides to hang up his riding boots, perhaps there’s a career as a midwife waiting for him! 🍼
Spot looked well at the Horse Inspection yesterday, showing off his 5* fitness with some frolics – not quite these frolics from a Burghley past though… 🪁:
4:42 Rise ‘n’ shine ENers! It’s here! It’s Burghley! It’s going to be brilliant!
Could I BE any more excited?!
Respect to Stateside eventing superfans who are up and watching.
Let’s do this thing!
