Classic Eventing Nation

Lara de Liedekerke–Meier and Hooney D’Arville. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

There is some sort of a joke about famous Belgians. I can’t actually remember what it is, except that the point is that there aren’t any. Excepting Agatha Christie’s moustachioed maestro, Hercule Poirot, of course.

In eventing, however, there have been several at-least-quite famous Belgians, primarily Karin Donckers and now Lara de Liedekerke-Meier. And team manager Kai Steffen-Meier – himself not a Belgian, but a German – is attempting to increase that number by giving some of the country’s up-and-coming riders the exposure and mileage that only comes from riding at (proper) five-stars.

While Lara is best placed of the Belgians after dressage at Badminton, scoring 31.7 on her Luhmühlen winner Hooney D’Arville, three others have crossed the Channel in search of big-event experience.

Kai, who rode at Badminton twice, says: “We had some plan behind [coming to Badminton en masse]. I really think that we are, let’s say, a growing nation – but I still think that to make the next step, we need to try to make the development into a five-star nation. I want to make it more normal [for Belgian riders] to go and aim for five-star. So over the winter, we’ve really tried to push for that for this year.

“The timeline this year is very good for us with Badminton, because it gives us enough time to regroup and get to Blenheim [for the European Championships] – it’s not one or the other. I think that’s actually helpful – it’s another bit of exposure and a chance to work under pressure.”

It’s always said that it is key to be working “above the level” at which you are competing, so that you are in your comfort zone when the intensity and pressure are dialled up.

He continues: “It’s absolutely also about being able to feel like we’re stepping down for championships, rather than punching up. I’m trying to make it more normal for them to ride a big track and test that out a bit and learn about it here, rather than at the championship itself. I want my riders to get to a championship and say, ‘huh, it’s a lot easier than what I’ve done already.’”

Lara had double-entered her homebred mare at Kentucky and Badminton, but the decision as to where to run was simple: “Money.”

She elaborates: “Even if you finish third, then you still almost don’t have any money after your transport costs. And when I saw the field… it was not a packed field, but it was a really consistent and strong field. She won Luhmühlen, but I’m not arrogant enough to feel like I could do it again, so I thought, ‘I’ll come here to get the experience’. I keep learning every single day. I hope she’s going to enjoy it and I’m not going to regret my choice!

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“I wanted to go to Kentucky because I think it’s a little bit more of a European way of building – Derek [di Grazia] builds a little bit more what she has been used to in the past. Here it’s really big, and she’s really a careful horse, so sometimes she takes a look. I hope she won’t be too careful and lose confidence around the track; I would have maybe liked to do another five star before coming here, but she has surprised me a lot of times in the past, so hopefully she will surprise me again on Saturday.

“It feels really good to be back. I forgot how much atmosphere there is – it’s so special, and I still think of it as the pinnacle of the sport, so I’m so happy to bring her here. It probably wasn’t my first plan – and who has Badminton as a plan B?! Only me, probably! – but she feels really, really good and she tried really hard in the dressage despite having so much stamina right now. I think she’s never felt as fit as she feels here.

“Not that long ago, I wasn’t thinking I was going to win a five-star, and so I’m not thinking about [winning] now. I just tried to do my best, and I could have done better; I don’t think she could have herself. I hope I’ll have nothing to report for myself on Saturday. That’s my mission. It’s a big course for her – it’s another league from Luhmühlen and the crowds are huge. She’s done Le Lion twice, though, and Boekelo, so she can cope with an atmosphere, but nothing beats Badminton. There’s a lot of questions, and we’ll see how she answers them.”

Seppe Vilain and Kawa de la Cour Z. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Second-best Belgian at Badminton (doesn’t that sound nice?) is 24-year-old Seppe Vilain, an amateur rider who works as a civil engineer. He scored 33.9 on Kawa De La Cour Z for equal 34th place.

“He’s a blood horse, but he stayed very calm, and I was able to ride him as I wanted,” says Seppe. “It was perhaps not our best test, but here I thought it was best to play it safe; it’s not a dressage competition. He did pretty well – I was a bit scared of how he’d deal with the atmosphere. It’s the first time he’s seen anything like this, but he was focused and he did the job. He’s 17, and he knows that once he enters the arena it’s time to do a job.”

Wouter de Cleene and Quintera. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Wouter De Cleene, a manager with a road construction company, is in 61st place with 38.1 on Quintera. Fascinating fact: Wouter’s uncle, Dirk van Mieghem, was the first Belgian to complete Badminton 45 years ago.

“I thought I rode a good test, but the flying changes came too early, and so I got bad marks and a bad result. I thought they were good, other than being too early, though!” says Wouter.

“The event is amazing – it’s nice to be here, and with all these people, tomorrow will be a special day. For me, the course is big enough, but I wanted to come and so I’ll just get out there and ride it. I have a good horse, I think.”

Senne Vervaecke and Google van Alsinger. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Squaring off the Belgian quartet is Senne Vervaecke, 62nd with 38.4 on Google Van Alsingen.

“I was very pleased,” says Senne. “She gave me, actually, a really great feeling. The first half of the test went amazing and then halfway through, she got really scared of one of the cameras. It was just really close – halfway, she had seen it and then every time she had to pass it, was like ‘oh, what’s happening here?’ But then we passed there, and she was really well behaved again. So considering the situations, I’m super-pleased.”

He has had the 14-year-old Watch Me mare since she was four.

“She was incredibly difficult to ride and difficult to work with when she was younger. It took us months of training to be able to get out of the stables and get to the arena without landing into one of the fields, stuff like that. I remember the first competition I did with her was like, an 80cm track. We did fence number one and that was good, and then there was a little road to fence number two, and halfway she stopped and turned around and I said, ‘No, no, let’s go back’. And she turned around again, and I said ‘no no, go back’ and tried five or six times, and then halfway when I said, ‘No, turn back’ she turned 90 degrees and was like, ‘I don’t want to go back. I’ll just go this way’. “There was a metal wire fence there, and so she started leaning against it, and I could feel her go to a standstill and she pushes and pushes, and a few seconds later, it goes bang. She goes through it and after that, she was like, ‘I made my point.’ And then I just trotted back to tell the organisers that I broke their field’s fence, and they were like ‘Okay, you can go ahead and continue’.

“All the rest of the course she did perfectly, and she passed that spot like a charm – she just had to make her point that she was the boss and she was going to decide what’s happening.”

MARS Badminton Horse Trials: [Website] [Entries] [Timetable] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream] [XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton Horse Trials is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

The Equidry Huntsman’s Close comes late on course at fence 26 this year — and it’s causing plenty of stir among the riders.

The fences are decorated and flagged, the ground is primed, and the consensus among this year’s MARS Badminton Horse Trials contenders is clear: this year’s Eric Winter-designed course is classic Badminton: big, bold, and built to test not just bravery, but brains and stamina, too.

With more than one rider commenting on the flow of Eric Winter’s 2025 track, there’s an appreciation for the course’s galloping rhythm — but no illusion that it’s soft. “There’s not even one fence where you think, ‘they can just go over that,’” observed Germany’s Jérôme Robine, echoing a common sentiment. From the imposing first water to the late-in-the-day demands of Huntsman’s Close, this year’s course asks plenty of both horses and riders. You can take a full gander at the track in our preview here as well as on CrossCountryApp here.

“I think it’s going to shake it up a big amount,” said Emily King, highlighting the course’s emphasis on fitness, rideability, and mutual trust between horse and rider. Others, like Kylie Roddy and Kirsty Chabert, praised the balance between bold questions and fairness, noting the thoughtful presentation and improved flow compared to previous years.

Still, no matter how experienced the combination, there’s an unmistakable air of respect heading into Saturday: “You either Pony Club kick and growl and get on with it,” shrugged Alice Casburn, “or you don’t.”

Here’s a look at what some of the riders in our field are saying about the course:

Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Oliver Townend – Cooley Rosalent – 21.1

“I mean, 11 minutes 40 is probably going to be tightly wheeled. She does have the stamina—it’s just up to me to give her the right ride, save where I can, and be as quick as I can. When you’re at a place like this, sometimes it’s your day and sometimes it isn’t. I’ll just be doing my best to give her as smooth a ride as possible, be as quick as I can, and hope she gets the trip at that speed.”

Tom McEwen – JL Dublin – 22.4

“I had a real quick blast round and walk on foot, and it took long enough—so it’s obviously a good, long course. I think it’s all there, it’s all fair, it’s all in front of you. There’s plenty to do—of course, it’s Badminton. I actually thought Huntsman’s Close, towards the end—if that was earlier on, we’d all fly through. But the horses are different types at that stage. This way around usually brings out a bit more of an endurance factor with such a long pull all the way home. Have your wits about you and ride what’s underneath you.”

Ros Canter – Lordships Graffalo – 25.3

“Walter’s not a huge fan of jumping things with things over the top of them—and there’s quite a few of those. So that’ll be a bit more of a challenge for us. But I’ve got every faith in him.”

Emily King – Valmy Biats – 27.3

“I think it’s gonna be a proper—gonna shake it up a big amount. There’s no real tricks… it’s really going to test our relationship with them, our riding, and they’re just big, doming efforts. They’ve got to be fit. The lake’s pretty huge… if we land in balance and they’re honest and know where they’re going, it should be there in front of them. The Vicarage Vee… brave little things like the pinned fences. It’s a bold, attacking course, which suits him, but I need to be clever with my ride so I save enough gallop in the tank.”

Tom Woodward – Low Moor Lucky – 27.9

“You definitely know you’re at Badminton—it’s big, from one to 32! There’s plenty of questions out there… it’s obvious to the horses what the questions are.”

“This way around, the course brings more of an endurance factor. With such a long pull all the way home, you’ve got to have your wits about you and ride what’s underneath you.”

Fiona Kashel and Creevagh Silver de Haar. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Fiona Kashel – Creevagh Silver de Haar – 28.4

“I hate going cross country. Honestly, if I never went cross country again, I think I’d be very happy! I do quite like it once I’ve finished—but that’s about it.

The course is just big for him. He’s not the biggest jumper, and it’s a big, bold, scopey track. He’s 17 years old now, and I’ve come here with the mindset of taking it one fence at a time. If he’s going well, I’ll keep going. If it’s too much for him, I’ll pull up. I’m just going to enjoy the experience.”

Yasmin Ingham – Rehy DJ – 29.1

“I walked [the course] this morning with Chris Bartle, and it’s massive. Classic Badminton—been coming here for many years, so now I’m able to tackle it myself, which is really exciting. We’re on form, and he’s had a really good spring. We’re just going to give it our best and enjoy it.”

Gemma Stevens – Chilli Knight – 29.5

“It is big, but it is actually all there in front of you. There are no tricks, which I think is really nice, and the distances are fantastic. Eric’s really nailed the distances, which makes me happy as half a show jumper. So yeah—just bring it on.”

Georgie Goss – Feloupe – 29.6

“The ground is quite firm, so I think that’ll make for a very fast day. The course looks bigger and bolder than previous years, but I’d say it’s less technical overall. The Huntsman’s Close will definitely catch a few out, and I think the first water is pretty bold.”

Felix Vogg and Cartania. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Felix Vogg – Cartania – 29.7

“I hope it’s difficult enough. I think Huntsman’s Close could cause problems—it’s late on the course, and the line there is still a question. The first water is very bold too. I think that could separate some of the field.”

Kylie Roddy – SRS Kan Do – 30.1

“I think it looks really good. It looks like it might have more flow this year, and I think it’s Big, Bold Badminton—which I hope will suit the horse I’m riding. If you get through the lake and they’re on, you’ll probably have quite a nice spin. There’s nothing ugly. Maybe the corner over the ditch at the bottom is a bit blind, but it is there for them to jump. They’ve built a horse’s track, which is lovely to see and ride.”

Alex Hua Tian – Chicko – 31.6

“It’s [cross country] big. I think it’s very fair, though. Everything’s in front of you. It gives you a really fair chance to jump everything – you either jump it or you don’t. I think the Huntsman’s Close, that big corner, the first big corner, I think will be the telling point, especially for riders on horses that are starting to get a bit weary. That will be sort of the main teller, I would say. The rest of it I think is very fair.”

Harry Meade – Superstition (31.8) and Cavalier Crystal (33.8)

“I think it’s a good course. I’m well aware I might fall off at fence two or three, so take what I say with a pinch of salt! I don’t know if it’s as technically difficult as normal, but equally, there are lots of places where you could have a frustrating problem. I like the lake — I think that’s a really fun, old-fashioned ‘jump in and then see what you’ve got when you land’ kind of question. That will cause some problems, and it’ll be really entertaining to watch.

All in all, I think it’s a good track. It’ll be interesting to see how difficult the time is. I think it wheels quite tight — I haven’t managed to compare that with anyone else, but I found it quite tight, which is good, because the conditions are so fast.

There are plenty of places you could have a frustrating issue, but I’m not sure how many fences there are where you say, ‘Wow, that’s a full five-star question,’ the kind you walk five times and still aren’t quite sure what you’re doing.”

Joseph Murphy – Calmaro (32.6) and Belline Fighting Spirit (39.2)

“I suppose I have a plan for the first horse [Belline Fighting Spirit], and then I’ll make a plan for the second one [Calmaro] — I think that’s how I’m going to see it tomorrow. The first horse is a little inexperienced, but he’s a big, bold jumper. He covers the ground well, and I think the course plays into his hands. But you never know — it’s big jumping early on, and if they go a bit shy or backwards, you might not have the horse you thought you had underneath you. That said, he could also take it on and give me a great feeling, so it really depends on how it plays out. I’m open-minded, and to be honest, I’m ready to perform.”

Max Warburton – Deepairc Revelry – 32.7

“I think it nearly walks nicer than Burghley, but I felt Burghley walked tough and rode very well. Eric’s a clever man. I’d say that’s going to ride tough enough tomorrow, but I think it’s all there to jump. You’ve just got to make it clear and keep kicking.”

Tim Price and Vitali. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Tim Price -Vitali (30.6) and Viscount Viktor (33.2)

“I think it’s very well presented. Everything seems in front of you, very obvious and clear. Looking forward to jumping some big fences.”

Kirsty Chabert – Classic VI – 33.7

“I had a brief whizz around the course yesterday… and I thought it had such a nicer feel than previous years. It’s more flowing, hopefully less intense for these horses. We don’t need to be pushing them into their extremities of bravery and endurance. We’ve all learned that a flowing course can actually cause just as many troubles.”

Harald Ambros – Vitorio du Montet – 34.9

“It’s a tough course, for sure—but this is Badminton. I think it’s a very fair course. The riders know what to do, and everything is clearly presented.”

Jerome Robine – Black Ice – 35.2

“Everything is just big—there’s not even one fence where you think, ‘they can just go over that.’ It’s always game on. You always have to be focused, and the horses have to be brave at nearly every jump. We already said—it’s kind of a different sport here. Nothing to do with the stuff we normally do.”

Jonelle Price – Grappa Nera – 35.3

“It’s big. You expect it to be big—perhaps lacking a little bit of technicality, I thought, in places. I think the first third is pretty busy. After that, I thought it was fairly in front of you. But it was only the first walk, and sometimes you have to walk around and try and find the difficulty from that point on.”

Grace Taylor – Game Changer – 35.4

“I’ve walked the course… and I think I’ll reserve judgment until after I’ve ridden it! I’ve got some little thoughts brewing in my head, but I’m keeping those to myself for now. You know—it’s Badminton.”

Sarah Ennis – Grantstown Jackson – 35.6

“Yeah, it’s all there. My first impression when I walked it was, ‘this looks nice,’ but I think Eric’s been very clever. He’s kept really tight lines—off trees, off turns—and I just think there’ll be so many silly 20s where you didn’t quite get the right turn or just met it wrong. Or it’s just not your day. But it looks amazing, as it always does. They always do a fabulous job, and that’s where Eric and his team are just phenomenal to listen to.

I’ll have time to watch a few tomorrow, but it’s not ideal waiting all day to go cross country. I hate that. I’d rather be out in the first ten and get it over with. You can only watch so many before you’re done. So yeah… not sure what I’m going to do—probably a lot of box walking. Or something.”

Aaron Millar and Friendship VDL (pictured here at Bramham. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Aaron Millar – Friendship VDL – 35.9

“You know, it’s a true five-star, and it’s very flowing. I like the fact that you walk it and you feel like you can really get the horses up on in the canter and keep them travelling. But, yeah, I’d never underestimate anything, even the last fence or the first ones. Nothing’s a given. I think there’ll be a few inside [the time]. The ground is very good. I’m on a relatively fast horse, and as long as he doesn’t get too strong — he went to Burghley, and the one thing I actually noticed [there as] he was coming out of main arena, down to the coffin [is] he does run a little bit away from the crowd, so I think for me, it’s just getting him settled and then really letting him travel.”

Samantha Cesnik – Graftango – 36.2

“Coming into the lake, giving her a minute to take it in… She’s been amazing at everything we’ve thrown at her, but it’s a pretty special atmosphere out there.”

Selena Milnes – Gelmer – 37.6

“I think Huntsman’s [Close], at the end of the course off that turn, is a lot to ask. I just think it just depends how tired they are. If they come up there quite tired, I might wing around the tree, but the plan is at the moment to go straight. I just wonder how much petrol we’ll have left.”

Tom Rowland – Quintilius – 37.6

“It’s more flowing this year… From the second fence, from that ditch table, all the way around—it’s big, big, big, big, big. And it’s a long way around. You’ve got the pupils up, Huntsman’s Close, and the Quarry.”

Laura Collett – Bling – 37.9

“I think it’s a brilliant track. For me, I was quite pleased that there aren’t too many twists and turns becase she doesn’t really like listening too much! But everything out there feels like a very fair question that the horses can understand and read. I actually think the time is going to be very, very tight, even though we’ve got good ground. They’ve done a fantastic job on it today; compared to yesterday, you can tell they’ve put in a lot of work over the last 24 hours. It’s spongy and amazing out there. Huge thanks to the team that’s been working so hard to get it right for us.”

Alice Casburn – Topspin – 37.9

“There’s certainly enough to do. It’s bold… This is your route. You either Pony Club kick and growl and get on with it, or you don’t. So yeah, there’s a lot to jump.”

David Doel – Galileo Nieuwmoed – 38.8

“There’s definitely plenty out there to jump—lots of combinations where you’ve got to pay a lot of attention and make sure you don’t miss your line. There are a lot of questions out there… Eric’s always very clever with his tracks. You walk them thinking, ‘Oh, this isn’t going to cause too many problems,’ and suddenly it causes carnage. So you’ve really got to keep your wits about you and stay switched on.”

Helen Bates – Carpe Diam – 40.2

“It’s a bit longer than last year, but I do think the course as a whole flows maybe a bit better. I think Eric’s been quite fair in letting us use corners to set up for some more difficult combinations. But yeah, I mean, every fence is going to take some riding, so [you] just definitely have to do a lot more of your walking and thinking about the game plan for tomorrow.”

Sam Watson (IRL) and Ballyneety Rocketman. Photo by Cealy Tetley

Sam Watson – Ballyneety Rocket Man – 40.5

“Yeah, well, Eric’s really clever. He gives us a lot to do — you don’t just roll down to the fences and jump them without changing gear. There’s preparation required, there’s a lot of balance required, and then you’ve just got to let the horse do their job. My job is that presentation to each fence, and I hope, again, he lets me communicate with him. There are a lot of distractions out there around Badminton. But in terms of stamina — galloping an 11-minute, 40 [second] track -—that’s all to his strengths. He loves that. He’s got the scope, he’s got the fitness, and he’s got the gallop. So hopefully, he does well.”

Daragh Byrne – Kilcannon Ramiro – 41.8

“It’s bold. Everything’s in front of you, but you have to go and jump it still. You know, it’s a long way around. Hopefully it’s not too warm. My plan is to just head out to get home and have a nice easy go around, hopefully. That’s the plan anyway.”

Tom Bird – Cowling Hot Gossip – 45.2

“I think it looks strong. It’s a five-star, you know, it’s a true five-star, but it looks jumpable. So I’m actually excited to get out there and give it a crack and try and pull ourselves back up a bit.”

Lauren Innes – Global Fision M – 48.6

“I mean, everything is there in front of you, but you can never underestimate Badminton, and it’s a long track. You just have to be on top of your game on that day. And hopefully we’ll be but, you know, you’ve just got to go out there and give it your best shot.”

MARS Badminton Horse Trials: [Website] [Entries] [Timetable] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream] [XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton Horse Trials is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

Harald Ambros and Vitorio du Montet. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Nearly everyone who competes at Badminton puts in very long hours, riding horses at dawn and dusk. Only one of them, this year at least, spent the intervening hours – between sunrise and sunset – telling people politely to “open wide” (in German, natürlich) and peering at their gnashers.

Austria’s Harald Ambros, who scored 34.9 in the morning dressage session on Vitorio Du Montet, works full-time as a dentist.

“Since February, it’s been hard,” he concedes. “I’ve been training at 5:30am, getting everything ready, then starting work at 7:30am and often finishing by 5pm —then training again. I’ve kept my other horses out of competition for the past six weeks to focus entirely on him [Vitorio Du Montet].

The other legendary eventing dentist – I know, remarkable to have found two of them – was Henrich Romeike, who won individual and team gold for Germany at the 2008 Olympics. Famously, after the Germans lost their team gold in Athens, Heini used his dentistry skills to forge his own gold medal – who knows whether he handed back the “real” medal to the IOC, or his own copy…?

Harald, 45, last rode at Badminton 18 years ago, finishing 18th on Miss Ferrari, whom he also rode at the Athens Olympic. Three of the Austrian team that year were called Harald, which still amuses eventing journalists old enough to remember those halcyon days.

Paris 2024 was his fourth Olympics, and his Badminton ride, 16-year-old Vitorio Du Montet, was his choice then. The horse has actually been to Badminton before; he had a tired fall at the final fence with French rider Maxime Livio in 2022. The Lando gelding had a couple of jockeys after Maxime before Harald bought him in 2023.

“In the gap between Maxime and me, a young woman owned him with the goal of qualifying for the Olympics, but she had an accident herself and had to sell him. I bought him and started working toward qualification—and we made it. We competed in Paris last year, and now we’re here at Badminton. The original plan was to aim for the Europeans at Blenheim this year. I know Blenheim well—I rode at the Europeans there in 2005 with my last Badminton horse. But it’s very hilly and strong, and I thought Badminton might actually suit Vitorio better. It’s flatter, and he’s a good five-star horse.”

Harald Ambros and Vitorio du Montet representing Austria in Paris. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

He was fairly happy with his dressage test, saying: “Vittorio is a difficult horse in such big arenas, but he stayed cool, and I was able to ride what was possible. I’m very happy—it’s such an amazing atmosphere in there. The familiarisation yesterday really helped, and we did a lot of dressage work over the past few days. I’m very pleased with him.

“He can do everything technically—flying changes, pirouettes, all of it. But when his nerves kick in, he shuts down. If he gets blocked, he’ll tighten his neck, set his ears back—and you’ll get no points. He needs a clear head.

“At Paris, it was intense. The announcer made a big deal: ‘French horse, French breeding, Maxime Livio,’ and the crowd exploded. You expect it, but still—it’s hard on the horse. You have to prepare them. So now, I do lots of work outside—cantering, showing him the environment, building confidence. We did three sessions yesterday and two today, just making sure he’d seen everything.”

Harald’s last Badminton, 2007, is remembered for the aridity of the weather in the build-up, and the going ended up being firm. “That year was clockwise as well, and the weather was beautiful, just like this year. They’d done a lot of groundwork and sand preparation back then. I much prefer these sunny conditions over rain—it makes a huge difference, and I’m very happy. I think it’s a very fair course; the riders know what to do, and it is clearly presented.”

Asked how it felt to be back at Badminton after such a period of time, he replies: “It’s very special. I’m lucky to have a horse like Vittorio again. I’ve had other horses I could’ve entered, but they wouldn’t have made it through the cross country—not bold enough or not fit enough. They were good for Europeans or World Championships, but this is different. You have to be lucky to have the right horse—and when you do, you give it your best and enjoy every moment.

“When you’re young, you try to catch the time. When you’re older—like me—you’re happy to stay safe, enjoy the ride, and be grateful to be here.”

MARS Badminton Horse Trials: [Website] [Entries] [Timetable] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream] [XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton Horse Trials is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

Ros Canter and Lordship’s Graffalo. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

No one has been able to surpass day one frontrunners, Tom McEwen and JL Dublin, on the MARS Badminton Horse Trials leaderboard so far, and at this sunny midpoint of the Friday’s dressage, their 22.4 remains the benchmark for the competition. Closest to the mark so far, though, is 2023 Badminton champions Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo, who sit a reasonably snug second on 25.3. 

In many ways, the thirteen-year-old British-bred gelding is looking the best he’s ever had – his early trot work earned nearly unanimous 8s and the odd 9, and he received another 9 for his mid-test halt prior to the reinback. We saw a 10 hit the board, too, from Xavier le Sauce at C for the right-handed trot half-pass, and the trending scores looked well set to surpass Tom and ‘Dubs’ – until the flying changes. 

In this test, the slightly bitty CCI5* Test C, the first and final of the four flying changes are double-weighted in the scoring – and in the first, Ros and ‘Walter’ scored expensive fours across the board for a rather hoppy change, and in the last, they scored the same again for a slightly stilted effort. Redemptively – or, perhaps more accurately, frustratingly – the middle two changes on the serpentine (the ones, notably, without double-weighting) were much smoother, earning, at the low end, a 6.5, and at the high end, a pair of 8s. 

“The changes have always been something he’s struggled with a bit, and I probably just didn’t help him quite enough in those moments,” says Ros. “I thought he was a bit more established than he was — so that’s my fault, and my hands in the air for that one. But he was amazing, overall.”

Ros Canter and Lordship’s Graffalo. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Ros, though, has never been one to cry over spilt milk or slightly skewiff changes, and she was as taken with Walter’s good work as all of us watching him had been. 

“I was really pleased with it, actually. I thought his work reflected what he’s doing at home — he’s getting stronger all the time, and I was delighted. I got a little bit distracted at the beginning when he started sneezing, which isn’t always a good sign! But he settled quickly and was great.”

While some horses go into Badminton’s atmospheric ring and shrink, ‘Walter’ has never been a horse to shy away from the spotlight. The small issues with his changes, then, weren’t the result of tension – rather, says Ros, it’s a symptom of trying not to school them too much beforehand.

“I think the changes are just a hard movement for me to practice with him,” she explains. “Once he knows they’re coming, he almost drops the contact, and I can’t ride him up into it properly. So maybe that’s just something I need to manage better.”

Ros Canter and Lordship’s Graffalo. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

After his Burghley win of last season, Ros has given Walter the same routine that we’ve seen her use often with her experienced horses – she’s dialled his workload right back and let him have maximum ‘horse’ time.

“He had a proper holiday, and quite a long time off to get fluffy and enjoy himself,” she smiles. “He came back into work at the end of December and had a good month of just hacking and taking it easy. He didn’t start doing anything too exciting until February. [Then,] I try not to overtrain — my natural instinct is to be the enemy and train too much — but I’ve worked to keep things balanced and give him the time he needs. He knows his job now; he’s a total professional. There was a very hairy picture of him on social media at one point where he looked pretty chubby! But it’s amazing — once he knows Badminton is on the cards, he strips himself up. He knows how to get himself ready.”

Georgie Goss and Feloupe. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Ros’s test puts yesterday’s runners-up, Emily King and Valmy Biats, into provisional third place on their 27.3, while debutant pair Tom Woodward and Low Moore Lucky now sit in fourth on their 27.9. In fact, you have to skim down to eighth place to find our next new entrant to the top ten – and that’s the British-based Irish representative pair of Georgie Goss and Feloupe. They posted a 29.6, one mark better than their test here last year on the mare’s five-star debut.

“I’m absolutely delighted – she was amazing,” says Georgie. “I just made one error in the third change, which was so frustrating, because the changes are usually one of her good bits. But I’m over the moon — she was so good. To still score in the sub-30s, even with that mistake, is fab, isn’t it? I’m really pleased.”

That their score is exactly one mark better this year feels, in a funny sort of way, slightly redemptive: “Last year she got a 30.6, but I entered the arena one second too late and got an error of course. I would have been in the 20s then, so I really wanted to get into the 20s this year,” explains Georgie.

Georgie has had the ride on the now-fifteen year old for five years, and though they had a slow start together, she’s always been excited about the potential she felt in her.

“When I got her, she’d done a short four-star but hadn’t had a great experience — I think she’d lost her confidence,” she says. “So our first year together was mostly at Novice, just rebuilding her. She’s one of those inward worriers — she’s very placid and quiet, and anyone can handle her — but she’s also incredibly sensitive, and she really wants to please. She’s always like, ‘Well, Mum, did I get it right?’”

“I love her,” she continues with a grin. “She’s very elegant, and she tries so hard. She’s not built brilliantly — she’s quite downhill, and with her big paces, she can hang on the forehand a bit. But she really tried in there today. I’ve been working with Ian [Woodhead], and he’s the master — so I was really pleased.”

Felix Vogg and Cartania. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

Just a hair’s breadth behind Georgie and ‘Lulu’ is Swiss Olympian and five-star winner Felix Vogg and the fourteen-year-old Cartania, who posted a 29.7 for provisional ninth place ahead of Kylie Roddie and SRS Kan Do (tenth on 30.1). 

“I think it was pretty good for her,” says Felix, who was a rare rider to come out of the ring pleasantly surprised at the number on the board – one that represents the mare’s second-best test at this level.

“I wasn’t super happy with how it felt in the ring — at times it seemed like she wasn’t really going forward enough. But they told me it didn’t look like that from the outside, which is good! It always feels different than it looks on the scoreboard, doesn’t it? But yeah, I’ll take that.”

Cartania has finished in the top fifteen here in each of the last two renewals of Badminton – but those were both years notable for their boggy, tough conditions, and this weekend’s challenge is a much faster, top-of-the-ground sort of affair. That, says Felix, is something that he’s been quietly mulling over.

“She’s okay on [firmer ground], but it’s not so easy to get her back in front of the jumps on quicker ground,” says Felix. “It’s easier for her to get going, but maybe that makes it harder for me! We’ll see. She’s very good at cross country, but on this kind of going, she can maybe run a bit too fast. I know that sounds a bit like a stupid complainer kind of thing — a bit of a worry — but that’s the only thing I can think of that might challenge us tomorrow.”

This year’s course is also widely regarded as being much more flowing than the last few years’ tracks have been – which, in conjunction with the quicker ground, could potentially see the cross-country hold less overall influence in the final results.

“I hope it’s difficult enough. I like when the courses are more challenging. I think that’s good for the sport. Most people seem to think the same,” he muses.

The US saw its second representative in the ring this morning in British-born and -raised Grace Taylor, the daughter of US Olympian Ann Sutton and British team selector Nigel Taylor. She and Game Changer trended well throughout almost the entirety of their test and looked set to replicate the impressive 28.9 they posted at Burghley in 2023 – but a late mistake cost them dearly, and they walked away with a 35.4 and provisional 35th place. 

That mistake? A beautifully performed but strides-early final flying change, which earned them double-weighted 1s across the board and also impacted their previous movement, the canter half-pass into counter-canter, for which they received 4s for not showing any strides of counter-canter.

Nevertheless, says Grace, “I’m really pleased with him. He tried really hard—he was a very good boy!”

The flying changes were a highlight of Grace’s test, despite that final premature delivery, and that’s something that she’s been hard at work on behind the scenes. 

“We’ve been working on everything, but definitely just making sure the changes are mine and not when he decides to throw them in,” she says. “That last change was definitely his change. We did it well, but it was just a little early. Overall, we’ve just been focusing on making the work more secure and consistent — so that the Burghley result two years ago wasn’t a one-off. We want that level of performance to be something we can deliver consistently.”

We’re heading back to the boards now for the latter half of today’s competition, and with some heavy-hitters to come, there’s much that could yet change. Follow along with all the action on Cheg’s live updates or via the livestream on ClipMyHorse.TV, and join us back here after the close of competition for a full report on the key stories of the day. Go Eventing. 

The top ten at the Friday lunch break at Badminton.

MARS Badminton Horse Trials: [Website] [Entries] [Timetable] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream] [XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton Horse Trials is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

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Good morrow ENers. I’m back with all of the dressage action from the second day at MARS Badminton. If you missed out yesterday, you’ll find a test-by-test analysis of all that went down on the first day of dressage right here.

Here’s how the leaderboard looked overnight:

1️⃣ 🇬🇧 Storming into the lead, Tom McEwen and JL Dublin totally delivered the goods and then some, putting down their best ever 5* dressage test to sit on a score of 22.4.

2️⃣ 🇬🇧 Slotting into second, Emily King and Valmy Biats produced a truly lovely test for a score of 27.3.

3️⃣ 🇬🇧 Shooting onto the 5* scene on their debut at the level, Tom Woodward and Low Moor Lucky had the time of their lives, launching themselves into the big leagues with a score of 27.9.

You’ll find the full leaderboard here and you can catch up with everything you need to know about all of the competitors in our new-look Form Guide – you’ll find it here.

We sure did get an overview of the quality that makes up the MARS Badminton field this year as the first half of the combinations strutted their stuff between the white boards. But there’s still so much to come. I can’t pick them all out – there’s so many – but a couple of notable examples include 2023 champs Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo, who’ll put their mark on the competition at 9:28am local time / 4:28am EST / 10:28am CEST; Oliver Townend will be back with his second ride, 2024 Kentucky winner Cooley Rosalent at 3:28pm local time / 10:28am EST / 4:28pm CEST, and don’t even think about going anywhere until after Tim Price wraps things up for the dressage phase at 4:17pm local time / 11:17am EST / 5:17pm CEST with Vitali – he broke the Burghley record in 2023 when he went sub-20 with space to spare and posted a score of 18.7. Eyes on ENers, all the way to the end of play when we’ll know who’ll head out onto tomorrow’s cross country in pole position.

Before we turn our focus to the dressage ring, a further ‘refresher’ of the no. 1 rule of following EN’s classic live blog – refresh, refresh, refresh and all will be revealed.

If you’re catching up with this later and are the type to like things in order, scroll ⬇️ and read ⬆️. If going backwards is more your jam, have at it.

As you know, here at EN we go over and above to bring our fellow eventing geeks every single scrap of info, fun, crazy, weird and wild that 5* events throw up, relinquishing sleep and sanity for the sake of our awesome sport. You’ll find all of our blood, sweat, tears and hilarity right here. And that’s not all because you can never have too much eventing, right? Head on over on our Instagram channel @goeventing for even more frolics.

Settle in for the second day, and go eventing!

MARS Badminton Horse Trials: [Website] [Entries] [Timetable] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream] [XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

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EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

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SUMMARY OF THE DAY’S SPORT

EN’s classic full round-up will be with you shortly. Tilly is busily hammering away at her thesis report as we speak, courageously taking on the role of editing it down from 6.6 million words to something a little more digestible. Eyes on the website for it dropping just as soon as a couple of eventing nerds and a chinchilla can make that possible.

Until then, here’s a quick re-cap of what today’s dressage brought…

There were changes at the top today with a new leader courtesy of Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent and a delighted Gemma Stevens slotting into third with Jalapeno. Tom McEwen hung onto second place with JL Dublin after leading overnight. Oliver delivered the test of the competition in a very consistent showing with his exciting mare. Will he stay there? We’ll just have to wait and see, nothing’s for certain in eventing until the final pole stays put.

You’ll find the full leaderboard right here.

But the scores aren’t everything, oh no. Yes, we’ve got big hitters gunning for the win, but eventing is about so much more than that. Here’s a quick run-down of some points of note from today’s competition:

🤖 – Singable Moment (and the first 10 of the competition) – To paraphrase Brandon Flowers’ question, is ‘Walter’ human, or is he dancer? Well, it turns out that Walter is, in fact, human. If you can call making two very expensive mistakes in the double-marked flying changes but still going into second (at that point) human. But there we have it. Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo didn’t run away with the lead as was predicted. Overall, the test was undeniably beautiful, and looked to perhaps be sneaking sub-20 at a number of points, including when they scored the first 10 of the competition for their trot half-pass. Alas, those changes happened. The ones on the serpentine were great, but the ones on the straight – which were infinitely more valuable/expensive – were not there today. They scored 25.3.

👌 Capitalizing on the Co-efficients – A combination that did capitalise on those double co-efficient changes was Felix Vogg and Cartania. The trot work was strong, the walk not so much, back to solid stuff for the canter but the changes really made all the difference when it came to the overall score to propel them sub-30 and into the top-10 at the lunch break. With marks in the 7.5s and 8s for the two double-scored changes against the boards, and equally clean and established changes on the serpentine, this pair made the flying changes look effortless and oh so easy, but we all know they’re not. They scored 29.7.

😐 Tough Day at the Office – There was disappointment for Tim Price with Vitali carrying a fair bit of tension right from the off which continued throughout his test. The gelding can go sub-20 but not today. They scored 30.6.

🩰 Best Hoof Forward – From a tough day to a terrific one, Fiona Kashel was thrilled with Creevagh Silver de Haar as he danced his way into seventh place, and rightly so. Lots of great marks came in for a confident and harmonious performance that was truly a joy to watch. They scored 28.4.

🎇 Fireworks Avoided… Just – Right from the off, Lauren Innes had her hands full with Global Fision M. There was a lot of excitement going on as they came into the ring. The halt didn’t really happen. Then they went sideways. Then backwards. Lauren coaxed the gelding forwards gently though and really demonstrated sensitive riding and the value of a trusting relationship between horse and ride. The test went along sweetly enough after the initial upset and ‘Flipper’ got to show off some of his quality movement, particularly in the trot work. He let loose after the final halt and Lauren calmly stroked him down the neck to let him know she’d got his back. She asked the crowd to stay quiet on the way out. It was an impressive showing of horsemanship from Lauren when she managed to settle a very lit up horse and get on with the job at hand. Onward to tomorrow for them. They scored 48.6.

🪽 Another pair to find themselves in a tricky situation between the white boards was Emma Thomas and Icarus. The gelding came into the ring depositing poop up the center line and objected to being asked to halt. He decided backwards was better. Emma did a masterful job of encouraging the gelding to play ball and they quietly made their way through the test. Superb job that woman. More impressive, sensitive riding on show. They scored 46.9.

🤠 Go Rodeo – There was a bit of a rodeo vibe going on as Sam Watson and Ballyneety Rocketman kicked their heels up and bucked their way through the flying changes. This sweet horse wasn’t being a bad guy, rather he was trying really, really hard and looking for the answer to Sam’s questions. A learning experience for him at his first 5* but a whole lotta promise on show, for sure. They scored 40.5.

🔔 Wrong Way – Unfortunately Alex Bragg had a moment when he was riding the B test and went to circle, but today was the C test and the bell rang. A really annoying mistake from him with Ardeo Premier in what was a bit of a rollercoaster ride through the scores with an 8 for the first halt and a 1 for the final change. They scored 35.1.

🦵- Flashiest Leg – No, not Austrian Harald Ambros who literally flashed his legs at the horse inspection when he came out in lederhosen – we’ll put that one to bed, until the next trot up. We’re talking infinitely more attractive horse legs here and Daragh Byrne’s striking gelding Kilcannon Ramiro. An active hind is perhaps the more correct term for how this horse goes, but flashy leg action does the job too. He showed off all his power as he launched his way round the ring, although it did make some of the movements, particularly the changes, tricky for him. Daragh looked delighted with his pal at the end of the test and was still smiling on the way out. This was a really lovely example of a horse trying his socks off for his rider and Daragh clearly appreciated the effort. They scored 41.8.

🤨 Grumpy Guy – The grumpy guy award definitely goes to Cowling Hot Gossip. Man, that guy is in this game for the cross country. He did everything Tom Bird asked of him but he wasn’t going to smile while he did it. He wasn’t upset by anything, he absolutely knows his job and Tom rides him for what he is – an eventer who’s totally invested in the best bit. He got a huge pat at the end of his test and walked out looking very pleased with himself. They scored 45.2.

🌟 Winning at Badminton – We talk a lot about the top of the leaderboard and the winners of 5* events, but really, you’ve won if you’ve made it there and if you can do your best on the day and ride the horse you’ve got to the very best of their ability, that’s surely a win in its own right, as demonstrated by Max Warburton with his lovely gelding Deerpairc Revelry. Solid, confident, prepared. A totally comfortable showing from horse and rider. That’s winning at Badminton. They scored 32.7.

On that lovely note, I’ll bid you adieu.

Keep it locked onto EN for full reports coming your way and join me back with the live blog from tomorrow’s cross country from 11:30am local time / 6:30am EST / 12:30pm CEST.

Dressage is done. It’s the best day tomorrow. Go eventing!

MARS Badminton Horse Trials: [Website] [Entries] [Timetable] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream] [XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

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EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

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11:29am

And so there we have it. MARS Badminton dressage is in the bag and we have ourselves a leaderboard going into tomorrow’s cross country.

1️⃣ 🇩🇪 Leading the pack is Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent who laid it all down in the dressage ring to sit on a score of 21.1, just 1.3 penalties ahead of the rest of the field.

2️⃣ 🇬🇧 Chasing the top spot is Tom McEwen and JL Dublin who showed their mettle between the white boards for a score of 22.4.

3️⃣ 🇺🇸 Rounding out the top three after the first phase is Gemma Stevens and Jalapeno on a score of 24.7.

You’ll find the full leaderboard right here.

Stay tuned – and don’t forget to hit refresh – for a summary of the day’s sport headed your way right here on the live blog and keep it locked onto the website for EN’s classic full report – coming soon.

I’ll be back live blogging tomorrow, typing ‘til I can’t type no more as I bring you all of the cross country action. It’s due to start at 11:30am local time / 6:30am EST / 12:30pm CEST. Don’t miss it!

Eyes on EN – the best day beckons – cross country day. Hooray!

Go eventing!

MARS Badminton Horse Trials: [Website] [Entries] [Timetable] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream] [XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

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EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

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11:17am

🇳🇿 Tim Price and Vitali

Tim Price and Vitali take the lead. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

✨ Multiple 5* winner 🙋‍♂️ including at Badminton in 2017 with Xavier Faer.

World No. 4 Tim Price has achieved the elusive feat of completing at all seven of the world’s 5*s, eight including the pop-up event at Bicton in 2021.

Vitali is a seasoned 5* campaigner with six runs and six top-10 completions to his name, the best coming at Burghley last season where he was runner-up. He very nearly won Badminton last year, going into the final phase in the lead and last to jump. Alas, those poles fell. Five of them, tumbling him down the leaderboard to 8th. He kept it to one at Burghley. He’s a guy who likes to keep us guessing, right to the last second of competition.

OK, here we go. The last horse is in the ring. Will he be last to go on Sunday? Maybe.

Vitali doesn’t get off to the best start with a 5, 6.5 and 7 for the first halt. He picks his toes up as he sets off in trot though. He looks a little tense. Tim’s brave in the extended, nearly too brave, he saves it but the scores aren’t what he would have hoped. He’s trending in the 7s and 7.5s.

The halt doesn’t really show the immobility and scores two 4s and a 3. The reinback is tense also and scores a 4, 5, and 6. Tim’s not able to push in the extended walk, Vitali has soaked up all of the atmosphere and is obviously super fit to boot. They make their way tentatively through the pirouettes but score well for their accuracy.

There’s an 8 in the scores for the trot half pass, a highlight for this horse. They get into canter and the scores really do improve. Tim’s riding sympathetically and cleverly, of course. The first change is very good for two 7s and a 7.5. The second is also neat but not quite as good. The third is a little behind the marker and scores to 7s and 6.5. The final one is the best and scores a 7.5 and two 7s.

The final halt is secure for two 8s and a 7. Phew. That was a tough ride for Tim, who obviously delivered a masterclass in riding. He’s not going to threaten the top today

Tim Price and Vitali score 30.6.

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11:10am

🇳🇿 Samantha Lissington and Lord Seekonig

Samantha Lissington and Lord Seekonig. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We’re down to the penultimate combination for the first phase. This is an exciting combination in this phase.

They come confidently into the ring and halt square. A good start for them with an 8 from the judge at H. The trot work is expressive and balanced with lots of flow – some 8s coming in at the early part of this test. The 10m circle is very pleasing to watch, rhythmical and accurate. There’s an 8.5 in the scores for the half pass.

The halt at C isn’t the best but the reinback is solid for two 7s and 7.5. They set off into a relaxed walk and score two 7.5s for the extended but then the tension bubbles up a little. Samantha settles everything seamlessly though. The pirouettes are very good.

The half pass in trot scores an 8.5. They get off into canter and there’s more rhythmical work on show with two 8s for the extended. The first change is quiet and scores a 6.5, 4.5 and a 5. The next one is better and scores a 7.5 from one judge and the third is nailed with 7s across the board. The final one isn’t so good. A couple of expensive mistakes there.

They come round and halt on the line really square for two 8s and a 7.5 A great end to the test. Overall this horse really looked comfortable and confident in his work and tried hard for his rider. Samantha waves to the camera on the way out with a smile. Lots of good stuff, a couple of expensive mistakes, particularly in those double-scored changes. Consistent enough for sub-30 though…

Samantha Lissington and Lord Seekonig score 29.9.

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11:03am

🇳🇿 Caroline Powell and High Time

Photo by Eventing Nation.

🏆 Last year’s champ 🙋🏼‍♀️

Seeing us out we have a trio of Kiwis 🥝🥝🥝

First of those three is none other than last year’s Badminton champ, Caroline Powell, who went with the reigning champ, Greenacres Special Cavalier, yesterday.

Today it’s high time for High Time’s time. (Go on, you know you want to say that out loud…)

Caroline’s all in with this horse after the withdrawal of last year’s winner before the dressage. They come in very neatly up the center line and halt dead square. A great start for them. They set off into a light and easy trot. The horse flexes nicely in the lateral work and really pushes forward in the extended and scores three 7s. There’s a lot to like about this work but the horses isn’t always totally happy in the contact and there’s some tension, which we see in a sneeze.

The halt is superb – two 8s and a 9 for that. The walk is definitely tentative. Caroline’s riding carefully. That will affect the scores for the extended as there’s not much of a difference, really. The pirouettes are equally careful.

They get back into trot and the horse sneezes a few times. He goes to canter but Caroline asks him to wait for the marker. The marks drop for the half pass because of that. Once they’re in canter the horse is balanced and everything is neat and tidy. The first change is tense but the second one is better. The tension’s definitely bubbling up as the test goes on. The second change on the serpentine is better again and the final one is good. They circle back round for the final halt and score an 8 for that movement, then have a couple of trot steps into the halt.

Lots of promise on show, some homework, but real potential for the future. Big pats from Caroline.

Caroline Powell and High Time score 36.7.

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10:56am

🇬🇧 Tom Rowland and Dreamliner

Tom Rowland and Dreamliner. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

This pair look confident as they come up the center line. The halt’s not on the line though and there’s a little step back. This is a big moving horse, really strong and powerful. A lot to handle in this phase but he looks rideable and eager to please. He’s light on his feet in the extended and scores 7.5s across the board for that. There could be a bit more bend through the body in the lateral work for the big marks and the horse clearly finds that a little more tricky. He snorts a bit.

The halt at C is OK and the horse continues to sneeze as he heads into the walk, showing a little tension. He walks nicely for Tom though and stays relaxed enough. They carefully navigate the pirouette sequence but there needs to be more bend to score bigger. They head back into trot and we get to see the lightness again, but the horse is definitely getting a little more tense as this test goes along.

They get into canter and show a really nice, rhythmical extended down the long line. The canter is this horse’s highlight and there’s 8s across the board for that. Unfortunately the first change is late and scores two 4s and a 5 but the second one is fabulous for an 8, 7.5 and 7. The next isn’t quite as good. The final one happens but kicks the boards and there are two 4s in the scores for that. The half circle back to the line scores two 8s and the final halt is solid.

There were some great highlights on show in this test and the collective marks are good – 7.5s and a 7 there. A couple of expensive mistakes but a horse which was clearly working very well for his rider.

Tom Rowland and Dreamliner score 33.1.

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10:49am

🇬🇧 Harry Meade and Cavalier Crystal

World No. 3 Harry Meade is hot from Kentucky, where he replicated his Burghley result from last season and finished 3rd and 4th. He’s a stalwart at Badminton, his local event, and has completed a massive 14 times, becoming the youngest-ever recipient of an Armada dish in 2009. He’s picked up a couple more since then! This mare was 3rd at Burghley on her debut at the level in 2023, and then 3rd again last year, when she jumped clear inside the time on cross country day and ended up finishing on her dressage score of 31.3. Harry was also 4th with his other talented mare Annaghmore Valoner. Harry sure is looking successful with the ladies. Watch this space…

Harry and ‘Nell’ come up the center line very confidently. She picks her head up in the halt and Harry gives her a minute to refocus before asking her to move off in trot. The mare is soft and supple although there’s some fussiness going on in the contact, which is a shame, really. The movement is nice and she’s pushing through from behind but the scores aren’t as up there as they perhaps could be.

They come round to halt at C and the head comes up again. She’s beautiful and she knows it. Harry encourages her to soften before the reinback, which is very good when it happens for 7s across the board. They set off into walk and Nell stays nicely relaxed and scores two 7s for the extended. There’s a little fiddle in the first pirouette and the scores drop to a 4, 5 and 5.5. The second one is better.

The get going with the canter and Harry’s brave in the extended. It’s very strong and scores an 8 and an 8.5. There’s a couple more 8s for the canter work. The first change isn’t great and scores 4s across the board, it was late unfortunately. The second one is better and the third is OK – two 6.5s and a 6 for that one. The final one is the best and scores two 7.5s and a 6.

They come round and halt to finish and Nell looks up to appreciate the applause. She settled a bit better as the test went on and there’s an 8 for the half circle back to the line. A bit mixed, overall, but watch out for them tomorrow, for sure.

Harry Meade and Cavalier Crystal score 34.6.

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10:42am

🇮🇪 Joseph Murphy and Calmaro

Joseph Murphy and Calmaro. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

This pair have come into a big atmosphere too and there’s a little step back in the first halt. They put it behind them and set off into a lovely rhythmical trot. Unfortunately they trip over the white board slightly, Joseph’s really using the whole arena. Nevertheless, the trot work is of a very nice quality and the scores are trending in the 7s and 7.5s.

They halt at C for an 8 from the judge at C. The reinback’s not quite straight but the steps are clean for two 7s. They set off into a quiet enough walk, albeit perhaps a little tentative and then there’s a jog in the extended and the scores drop to a 4, 5 and 5.5. They navigate the pirouettes well enough.

They get into canter and we can hear the horse grinding his teeth. There’s definitely a little tension there but the horse is really trying hard for Joseph. The first change is good and clean for 7s across the board. The second isn’t quite as good and scores a 7 and two 6.5s. The third is not easy and scores 4s. The final one is very good though for two 7s.

They come round to and score an 8 for the circle back to the line and the final halt is good enough for two 7s. Lots to like here in an, overall, polished performance on a horse that was clearly feeling the atmosphere. Good job.

Joseph Murphy and Calmaro score 32.6.

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10:35am

🇬🇧 Gemma Stevens and Jalapeno

Gemma Tattersall and Jalapeno. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

🌟 5* winner 🙋🏼‍♀️

Gemma won the pop-up 5* event at Bicton in 2021 with her other Badminton ride Chilli Knight.

🌶️ Jalapeno is known as ‘Jala’ in the barn.

It won’t be easy coming in after that, with how excited the crowd is. But Gemma’s a total pro. She can deal with anything this sport throws at her.

They make their way up the center line quietly and confidently and halt square, albeit with a slight step to the left behind. Three 8s across the board for that. Great start. They set off into a balanced and uphill trot and there are a few 8s in the scores at the early part of the test. The extended is beautiful and scores an 8 from the B judge. So balanced and powerful. Lovely.

They come round to C and halt, not quite square but she corrects it. There’s an 8 and two 7s for that. The reinback’s not quite straight but scores a two 7.5s and a 7 for the quality of the steps. The walk is very relaxed and the extended pulls in two 7.5s and a 7. The pirouette is accurate, the second one a smidge better than the first.

They set off into canter a fraction early but the balance is maintained and Gemma really rides for the extended. Scores are trending in the 7s and 7.5s on the whole. The first change is clean and tidy and scores an 8 and two 7.5s. Totally on the aid. The second is slightly better for two 8s. The third is a bit muddled and the scores drop slightly. The fourth is very good and totally accurate on the marker for an 8 and two 7.5s. Lots of valuable marks there.

They come back round for a 9 in the half circle and halt for another 9 and two 8s. She’s got to be delighted with that showing. A lovely example of a horse and rider partnership. Consistent throughout. 8s across the board for the collectives.

They go into third place!

Gemma Stevens and Jalapeno score 24.7.

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10:28am

🇬🇧 Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent

Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent. Photo by Sally Spickard.

🌟 5* winning combo!

Oliver and ‘Rosie’ were last year’s Kentucky champs, where they landed =8th after putting down a 31.4 in the first phase, but a blistering Saturday saw them add just one second of cross country time and they finished in style with a clear show jumping round to ultimately taking the crown.

🌹 Cooley Rosalent is known as ‘Rosie’ in the barn.

We’re into the final session of dressage at MARS Badminton! Will there be a leaderboard shake up? Maybe…

Rosie looks fabulous as she trots round the ring waiting for the bell. Oliver’s horses both looked super fit at the first horse inspection. Interestingly, Rosie also has a nose net on.

We’re being treated to Bettina Hoy in the commentary box for this session, who’s informed us that Rosie shares bloodlines with her Ringwood Cockatoo.

They’re up the center line and halted. There was a little wobble going into the halt but when she’s there it’s great and scores two 8s. Rosie’s so supple in her trot, light on her feet and elegance, but so strong. Lots of 8s coming in at the early part of the test. Three 8s for the extended.

The 8s continue for some very strong trot work. The halt at C is excellent and scores two 9s and an 8. Oliver’s gunning for it. The reinback scores an 8.5 and an 8. They get going into walk and the quality continues. Rosie is accurate and powerful and very relaxed but active. The first pirouette is neat and deliberate for 7.5s across the board. Bettina says she’d be happy with those pirouettes, praise indeed, and the second one scores two 8s and a 7.5.

The canter work is consistent in the quality. Lots more 8s coming in here. They nail the first change for three 8s. Oliver really is presenting this test beautifully. The changes on the serpentine are also nailed. The final change is great for two 8s and an 8.5. Nailed it.

What a consistent test. Overwhelmingly in the 8s. Oliver grins. What a horse this is. Beautiful. Exciting. 8.5s across the board for the collectives.

INTO THE LEAD!!!

The crowd go wild. Oliver can’t contain himself. What a wonderful horse she is.

Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent score 21.1.

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🚜 We’re heading into a short break now. Competition resumes at 3:28pm local time / 10:28am EST / 4:28pm CEST. Back in a bit! 🚜

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EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

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9:56am

🇬🇧 Kirsty Chabert and Opposition Heraldik Girl

Kirsty Chabert and Opposition Heraldik Girl. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

🚀 Opposition Heraldik Girl is known as ‘Rocket’ in the barn. Let’s keep it under wraps between the white boards though Rocket, please.

She’s a little fizzy as she makes her way to the gap in the boards to come into the ring. The halt is great but the move off goes left showing a little unbalance. The halt gets an 8 from the B judge. They get going into an expressive trot and really show that off in the extended. The mare seems to have settled nicely now and is picking up scores in the 7s and 7.5s.

They come round to halt at C but it’s not square behind. The reinback is soft and balanced for an 8 from the B judge, 6.5 from the other two though. They get going into a fairly relaxed walk and the mare looks to be happy in her work. They navigate the pirouette sequence quietly and the first one scores a 7.5 from the judge at C.

They set off into a light and airy canter which looks rideable and balanced. The change isn’t quite on the aids but it’s accurate when it comes – 4. 6.5 and 7 comes in for that. The second change is 4s across the board, the next is a bit better and the final one is better again, although gets another mixed bag of scores with a 4, 6, and 7.

They finish up their test to a cheer from the crowd and more mixed scores – 5, 6 and 8.

This was a sweet test from the horse who tried really hard. Not everything came off how Kirsty would have liked but she gives Rocket a lovely rub down the neck as she walks out having a very good look round. It may take a minute to sort those varied scores out. I’ll update it when it does come through.

Kirsty Chabert and Opposition Heraldik Girl score 34.8.

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9:49am

🇬🇧 Fiona Kashel and Creevagh Silver de Haar

Fiona Kashel and Creevagh Silver de Haar. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

We have another gloriously white horse in the ring now. This one’s by the same sire at Vanir Kamira, Piggy March’s Badminton winner.

They start off with two 7.5s and a 6 for the first halt and then get off into a balanced and flowing trot. The extended is lofty and the horse flicks his toes forward, showing pleasing expression. There’s some tail swishing going on but the horse is working nicely for Fiona and is very consistent in his movements.

Wow, the halt is brilliant. 8s all round for that. Nicola Wilson in the commentary box thinks the judges could have gone higher and I’m inclined to agree. Meanies.

The walk isn’t quite as good as the trot work initially but the pirouettes are very solid, rhythmical and some of the best we’ve seen probably. 7s and 7.5s across the board for both of them. They get going into canter and show a marked difference down the long side for the extended. There’s an 8 in the scores for the canter work. The tail swish comes back for the flying change but the first is very accurate for 7s and a 7.5. The two on the serpentine are equally good and score 7.5s and a 7. The final one is valuable and nailed. Great job.

Fiona looks delighted as she halts with an 8. The crowd are very enthusiastic for a great showing. A really lovely picture of a horse enjoying his work and very confident to boot. Sub-30 and into 5th as things stand. That makes Fiona crowd. She looks back at the board a few times. She can’t believe it. A PB. Super.

Fiona Kashel and Creevagh Silver de Haar score 28.4.

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9:42am

🇬🇧 Laura Collett and Bling

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A post shared by Laura Collett MBE (@laura_collett)

✨ Multiple 5* winner 🙋🏼‍♀️

Laura’s taken a trifecta of 5* wins, including Badminton in 2023 with her double team gold and individual bronze medal winning Olympic ride London 52.

This horse is an absolute beast and really is striking in the ring. They get off to a great start with an 8 and two 7.5s but then unfortunately there’s a break in the trot. Laura’s so experienced though and she brings things back together quickly. The scores improve to mostly 7s at the early part of their test.

Laura manages to keep the rhythm consistent for the rest of the trot and then the halt at C is excellent – two 8s and a 7.5 for that. They get off into a relaxed walk which is quiet and fluent enough. They get a bit stuck in the first pirouette but the second one is better.

They get a sweet transition into canter and the horse looks to find things a bit easier. Scores are consistently in the 7s at this stage of the test. She’s a little green in the first change and scores 4s across the board, but the second one is better for 6s and a 6.5. The next isn’t quite as good. This horse is building in confidence as she goes around which is great to see.

They finish up with a good halt and a big cheer from the crowd. Bling has a look round as she leaves the ring. She looks tired after working so hard for Laura. She seems to be a sweet mare who’s just gained valuable experience at the level.

Laura Collett and Bling score 37.8.

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9:35am

🇩🇪 Nicolai Aldinger and Timmo

Nico Aldinger and Timmo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

I do love a white horse, having got one myself, but man, mine is never, ever as white as Timmo. Props to the grooms, for sure.

They come up the center line and deliver a deliberate halt for an 8 and two 7.5s. Great start for them. There’s another 8 for the collected trot and this looks to be an exciting pairing. The horse is nicely uphill and expressive in his movement. He’s really long which makes the tiny 10m circle tricky, but he navigates it well for two 7s and a 7.5.

The halt at C is excellent for two 8s and a 7.5. Very clean. The reinback is also clean and scores well – two 7.5s and a 7. They set off into walk and Nicolai works hard to keep the relaxation. It doesn’t quite come off though in the extended, although the pirouettes are very impressive. They get a smooth transition into canter and Nicolai’s brave in the extended and is rewarded for it. Quite a few 8s coming in for the canter work.

The changes are a little confused, they’re not really established yet but the horse is trying for Nicolai. There’s a bit of a loss of rhythm coming into the final change and the horse drops behind the leg slightly. They finish up with another great halt for 8s across the board and Nicolai looks very pleased.

There was so much potential on show here, with some excellent marks. Once they nail those changes, they’ll be ones to watch in this phase. They’re great on cross country, make sure to catch their round tomorrow. Big cheers as they leave the ring.

Nicolai Aldinger and Timmo score 33.9.

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9:28am

🇬🇧 Alexander Bragg and Ardeo Premier

Alex Bragg and Ardeo Premier. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Alex was on the podium at Badminton last year with his talented mare Quindiva. He was tied on the score for runner-up but ended up in third spot.

He smiles as he comes into the ring and no wonder – an 8 and two 7.5s for the first halt. They get going into a nice enough trot but it’s not always consistent in the rhythm which affects the marks a little. 7s and some 6.5s on the whole.

The halt isn’t really secure and the horse steps into the boards on the reinback and it scores two 5s and a 6. They set off into a relaxed enough walk and score a 7 for the extended, but there’s some anticipation through the pirouette sequence and very nearly a jig. The horse settles better once he gets going in canter.

The extended down the long side is very good and then the first change is delivered really well for two 7.5s and a 7. But then, oh no, the bell’s rung. Alex went to circle round. That’s so annoying for him. An error of course there.

Alex gets things back together and the first change on the serpentine is good but the second one is very muddled and there’s a 1 in the scores there. The final change gets a mixed back of scores with a 4, 7 and 6.5.

A rueful Alex halts to end his test. Man, we all have those moments. Some good stuff going on, particularly the changes that came good, but an unfortunate error of course means a frustrating start to Alex’s Badminton.

Alexander Bragg and Ardeo Premier score 35.1.

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9:21am

🇮🇪 Sam Watson and Ballyneety Rocketman

Sam Watson and Ballyneety Rocketman. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Sam’ll be receiving his Armada dish on Sunday for five Badminton completions, which he achieved last year. It’s the gelding’s first time at the level. They make a smart entrance and get off into an active trot. There’s a little tail swishing going on and some play in the contact but the horse is moving nicely overall, with small losses of rhythm every now and then. Scores are trending around 6.5.

There’s a little work to do in the lateral work, with the quarters coming in slightly. The halt at C starts off well but then the horse steps out slightly. The reinback is sound though for two 7s. They set off into walk and ‘Rocket’ is reasonably relaxed through the extended but there’s some fizz bubbling away underneath, for sure. The first pirouette is very nice for two 7s but the second one needed a little more bend for those type of scores.

They get off into canter and Sam’s brave down the long side for the extended. The horse is more balanced in the canter although there’s still a little of play going on in the contact. This is a young horse for the level at 11 and he’s still learning what it’s all about. He’s very expressive in the changes and actually bucks his way through them. The horse is really trying to get the right answer but can’t quite get his body to follow his brain. Although affecting the marks, it’s actually quite cute. He is a trier that’s for sure, and that’s just what you want, really.

They finish up with a smile from Sam and a pat. The test started off much better than it ended but the horse tried all the way through and this is just the beginning of his 5* career. More to come from him, for sure.

Sam Watson and Ballyneety Rocketman score 40.5.

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9:14am

🇳🇿 Taylor Mason and Centennial

Tayla Mason and Centennial. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Taylor squeaked onto the entry list at the last second to be here for her first Badminton with her homebred horse. They kick off with a 7.5, 7 and 6.5 for the first halt then progress into a powerful trot. This horse is very consistent in the way he moves, he looks forward and rideable and confident in his work. There’s a nice partnership between horse and rider on show here.

They halt square but then the horse steps back out of it – that’s 6s across the board. A bit of a shame because that could have been very high scoring. The reinback is excellent for two 7s and a 7.5. They set off into an active and powerful walk and the extended scores a 7.5 and a 7. They’re careful round the pirouettes but the horse drops behind the leg ever so slightly in the first. The second is better.

The horse anticipates the canter transition but settles once he’s allowed to go. Scores are trending in the 7s for the canter work. The first change is a little muddled and gets 4s across the board. The second is also a little tricky but the third is better. The horse is really trying very hard to do as he’s asked. The final change is very good but is quite a bit before the marker.

They come round and halt to end and overall, that was a job well done. The horse is very relaxed as he walks out of the ring, which is a success in itself. Very nice overall.

Taylor Mason and Centennial score 40.2.

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9:07am

🇮🇪 Sarah Ennis and Grantstown Jackson

Sarah Ennis and Grantstown Jackson. Photo by Alex Jeffery.

This is a phenomenal cross country horse – make sure to keep an eye out for him tomorrow. He’s wearing a bonnet and nose net for the dressage today.

They come into the ring and unfortunately lose the canter rhythm momentarily just as they come through the gap in the boards. Things come back together straight away though and the early trot work is nice and balanced. Lots of 7s in the scores here.

The horse is being very obedient and really working hard for Sarah. The halt at C is very good for an 8 and the reinback is straight and true for another one. The walk is relaxed enough and they navigate the pirouettes carefully. The second one is a bit better than the first.

They get back into trot and then go into canter and push forward for the extended. ‘Jackson’ responds nicely and comes back to show a clear difference. The first change is neat and on the aids and scores a 7 from the judge at H. The first one on the serpentine is slightly early but the second one is cleaner. The valuable final change is very clean but not quite on the marker, which affects the scores.

They finish up as the sun really comes out and score an 8, 7 and 7.5 for the final halt. The crowd appreciates a solid performance this afternoon. They cheer as they make their way out and Jackson lights up. Sarah circles and smiles at her guy. Solid work. Cross country tomorrow.

Sarah Ennis and Grantstown Jackson score 35.6.

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9am

🇮🇪 Patrick Whelan and Ikoon Lan

Patrick Whelan Ikoon Lan. Photo by Irish Eventing Times.

Patrick and ‘Brutus’ get us back underway after the lunch break at Badminton.

Burtus looks impressive as he canters round the ring waiting to make his entrance. There’s a wiggle in the first halt and he steps off the center line on the way out. But once he gets going things improve and the scores shoot up to 8 for the collected trot. This horse works in a very correct way and is clean and elegant in his movement. He’s forward and expressive and there’s another 8 for the shoulder-in. He drops behind Patrick’s leg a little in the circle but Patrick pushes forward.

They score 7s across the board for the halt at C and then get off into an active walk. The horse doesn’t really take the contact forward in the extended for the biggest marks but the quality is there and he scores an 8 from the judge at C. The pirouettes are not so easy and the scores drop off there.

There’s some tail swishing going on as the horse anticipates the canter transition but he settles once he gets there. He’s working in a very nice uphill frame but every now and then he drops behind the leg for a moment. The first change is very expressive and so is the second. Lots of 7.5s coming in. The third isn’t so good and scores a 4 from the judge at H. That’s a shame because the others were solid. The final one scores 4.5, 4.5 and 7 – that’ll be reviewed.

They finish up what was overall a very good showing. Some lovely highlights and a horse who’s obviously very happy in his work.

Patrick Whelan and Ikoon Lan score 34.4.

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We’re heading into the lunch break now.
Competition resumes at 2pm local time / 9am EST / 3pm CEST.

Here’s a look at the leaderboard after this morning’s competition:

1️⃣ 🇬🇧 Tom McEwen and JL Dublin – 22.4

2️⃣ 🇬🇧 Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo – 25.3

3️⃣ 🇬🇧 Emily King and Valmy Biats – 27.3

You’ll find the full leaderboard right here.

Back in a bit!

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EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

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12:21am

🇬🇧 Harry Mutch and Shanbeg Cooley

Harry Mutch and Shanbeg Cooley. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Harry and ‘Jaeger’ get off to a solid start and the horse looks to be settled and happy in the ring. Scores trend in the 6s overall for the early trot work with some 7s in there too. They halt nicely at C for two 8s and a 7 although the reinback is sticky for two 4s. It’s great to see the judges using all of the marks available for all the movements.

They set off into a relaxed enough walk and the extended is very nice for a 7 and a 7.5. There’s a tiny jig between the two pirouettes but they navigate their way round those tight turns. They get back into a balanced trot and then strike off for the canter section of the test.

The extended canter is strong and the horse clearly fancies a gallop. Harry gently flexes his neck to help him to lighten up a little. Jaeger responds even though he’s getting strong. They manage the flying changes really well, clearly solid in those difficult movements, until the last which is sticky for two 4s, that’s expensive.

The final halt scores an 8 from the B judge which is a great way to end your Badminton test. This was a horse trying hard despite being fit and ready for cross country. Harry rode really nicely though and clearly knows how to manage all that excitement.

Harry Mutch and Shanbeg Cooley score 40.4.

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7:14am

🇳🇿 Lauren Innes and Global Fision M

Lauren Innes and Global Fision M. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

There’s some excitement going on as they come up the center line. This horse is known to be tricky in this phase. He’s spotted the cross country fences in the arena and would much rather be jumping them. The halt doesn’t really happen – 2s and a 3 there – and it takes Lauren a hot minute to really get him going. There’s some sideways and a little backwards and then, finally, forwards.

When they do get trotting there’s a really nice quality to the movement and the extended scores 7s across the board. The halt at C also scores 7s. ‘Flipper’ seems to have settled down. He walks really nicely across the diagonal, looking as though all that palaver at the start never happened. Some jiggy jog creeps in though but Lauren really navigates those pirouettes well, all things considered. They go back into trot but Flipper wants to canter. He throws his head up to let Lauren know and eventually, she’s able to let him go.

He does settle a bit and actually comes back nicely for her after the extended, she was brave there to push for that. It’s a shame that the atmosphere gets to this horse so markedly as when he’s on side and listening, he’s actually got a great quality in his movement. He’s so powerful and flashy. The changes are obviously going to be hard, he wants to run. Tomorrow, boy, tomorrow.

They finish up with a quiet halt and then he lets loose. He dances round and Lauren takes a minute to settle him with a stroke down the neck. She clearly knows this horse inside out and they obviously have a really strong relationship. Tricky in this phase but actually with a heap of potential. Onward to tomorrow.

Lauren asks the crowd to stay quiet as she leaves the ring. There’s no scores to be had now but she obviously doesn’t want her horse to be upset unnecessarily. Sensitive riding on show. They move on to their best bits now.

Lauren Innes and Global Fision M score 48.9.

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7:07am

🇨🇭 Felix Vogg and Cartania

Felix Vogg and Cartania. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

🌟 5* winner 🙋

Felix gave himself a kick-ass birthday present in 2022 when he won Luhmühlen 🥳

This pair look very focused as they come up the center line. They set off into a light and balanced trot and the mare seems to be very rideable at the beginning of the test. They score an 8 for the collected. They show a clear difference in the extended and the horse responds softly when Felix asks her to come back. She moves softly round the 10m circle and scores a 7.5 from the judge at H.

The halt is excellent and scores two 8s and a 7.5. It’s very slightly off center, that could have scored even higher, really. The reinback’s not so good and scores two 5s and a 7. They get going into walk and everything is neat and tidy. It’s 6.5s across the board for the extended. The first pirouette is very good and scores two 7s, the second not so much.

They get into canter and the mare creates an elegant picture with the same light quality as her trot. There’s an 8 in the scores here. The first change is very neat for two 8s and a 7 and the second is also good. Very established in that movement. The third change scores 7s across the board. The fourth is also very clean – no drama for them. That scores two 7.5s. Those two high change marks are doubled. There’s another 8 for the half circle back to the center line and another one for the final halt.

Some real highlights on show here and excellent flying changes that looked oh so easy, but we know they’re not. Very nice and sub-30 for those valuable double co-efficients on the changes.

Felix Vogg and Cartania score 29.7.

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7am

🇬🇧 Nicky Hill and MGH Bingo Boy

Nicky Hill and MGH Bingo Boy. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Nicky and ‘Bing’ come up the center line and come to an abrupt halt. They’re quick to get going into trot and settle quickly into their test. This horse is light on his feet and expressive in his movements and scores are trending in the 7s at the early stages of their test.

We can see Bing playing with the contact a little and he lifts his nose ever so slightly in the halt to have a look round. The halt is maintained but it’s not quite square. The reinback is neat though. They set off into walk and Nicky clearly has to encourage Bing to stay focused on her. He does though and they score 7s across the board for the extended. There’s a little resistance coming out of the first pirouette but the second is solid.

They set off into the canter section and Nicky pushes forward for the extended. Bing’s still playing around with the contact though and things fall apart a little at the end of the half pass and then the change is really tricky. She has to come right back to walk almost before pushing forward again. The changes on the serpentine are solid though.

They come back round to the center line to finish up their Badminton dressage. Bing looks up to acknowledge his applause. Some very nice bits, some tricky bits. But the horse stayed with his rider and tried for her. He looks pleased with himself on the way out.

Nicky Hill and MGH Bingo Boy score 40.1.

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6:53am

🇮🇪 Daragh Byrne and Kilcannon Ramiro

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Daragh and Kilcannon come very straight up the center line to get their competition underway with an 8 in the scores to start. This horse has a big action with his hind end which really shows his power across the ground. The extended trot is very strong and scores two 7.5s and a 7. The trot work on the whole is very consistent and trending in the 7s.

This is clearly a horse and rider who know each other very well. Daragh’s riding very deliberately and everything seems to be very secure. Kilcannon’s relaxed in the walk and very focused on his rider. Scoresf for the extended are 6, 5.5 and 7. This big, powerful horse doesn’t find the pirouettes easy and the scores drop down, but come back up for the trot work before the canter section of the test.

There’s a lovely uphill quality to this horse’s canter. He must feel great out on cross country. Scores are trending in the 7s on the whole. Until the first change when the gelding kicks out a little and clips the board. The massive movement he naturally has makes the flying changes really difficult for him. There’s a break in the canter unfortunately which is expensive and they score a 3, 4 and 6 for the half pass.

They come round to halt and Daragh’s grinning. Lovely strokes for Kilcannon for a job well done. Despite the problems in the changes, this was a clear example of a horse trying his socks off for his rider. A really lovely partnership on show. Daragh’s still smiling on the way out.

Daragh Byrne and Kilcannon Ramiro score 41.8.

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6:46am

🇬🇧 Katie Magee and Treworra

Katie Magee and Treworra. Photo by Ed Ryder.

This pair had their first time at 5* at the very wet edition of Pau last year, so it’ll be cool to see how they take to the level in more opportune conditions.

They get off to a solid start with an 8, 7.5 and 7 for the first halt. Great work there. They get going into an expressive trot and there’s another 8 for the collected. The horse is soft and light and really uses his body nicely. Lots of 7s and 7.5s coming in and a smattering of 8s. This is really a great picture and there are two 8s for the 10m circle.

The get another 8 for the halt at C, backed up by a 7.5 and 7 and the reinback comes up good. The walk is nice and expressive and soft although the horse could perhaps have lengthened his frame more for big marks in the extended. The first pirouette very polished and there’s a 7 in the scores for that but the second doesn’t come off so well and there are 4s in there for that.

They get into canter and the quality improves along with the scores. Lots of 7.5s coming in. The horse is working very nicely for his rider and trying his best. The first change isn’t really there and scores 4s across the board. The ones on the serpentine are much better though and there are two 7s for the second one. The final one on the straight is better than the first.

They finish up with two 8s and a 7.5 for the halt – what a great way to end what’s been an impressive test. Lots to like here and buckets of potential. Katie looks delighted and the horse looks very pleased with himself. Good boy. What a great start to their Badminton.

Katie Magee and Treworra score 31.8.

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6:39am

🇬🇧 Jack Pinkney and Rehy Revelation

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Jack and ‘Alex’ enter the ring looking very focused. They halt square to start and set off into trot. The horse looks like he’s having to try very hard to concentrate, but he’s listening to Jack. The trot is clean and tidy but there’s some tail action happening. Scores are trending in the 6s with a few 7s.

The halt at C is very good and maintained for 7s across the board and the reinback is soft and willing for a 7.5 from the judge at B. They get into the walk and Alex stays relaxed and is happy to amble along for Jack. The extended scores 7s across the board.

They neatly navigate the pirouettes with scores in the 6.5s on the whole for the first and a mixed bag for the second – a 4 and a 7 in there. They set off into the canter section and push down the long side for the extended. Scores are back up in the 7s until the first change. The horse really jumps it and kicks the board with his hind – 4s across the board for that one, and then the next, and the next. A little homework to do there. The final change scores two 4s and a 7 – that’ll perhaps be looked at again.

They come back around to halt on the center line and pick up a 7.5 to finish off. Overall this was a nice test with some things to work on for next time. Jack looks happy with his horse and Alex looks very relaxed as he walks out of the ring.

Jack Pinkney and Rehy Revelation score 39.9.

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6:32am

🇦🇹 Harald Ambros and Vitorio du Montet

Harald Ambros and Vitorio du Montet. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Harald and ‘Vitorio’ get us back underway for the last session before lunch and get off to a great start with an 8 for the first halt from the judge at B. You can hear the horse griding his teeth as he trots round the arena but his movement is very clean and relaxed and the scores are trending in the 7s in the early part of their test.

This is a really accurately ridden test so far and Harald’s leaving nothing to chance. The halt at C is excellent, soft and well maintained and another 8 in the scores there. A 7.5 in the reinback scores. Those movements were a clear highlight.

The walk is precise but not really relaxed and flowing enough for the big marks and the pirouettes are a little tentative. Scores drop into the 6s for the walk section. They get back into trot and there’s some tail swishing creeping in, showing a little tension. They strike off into canter and the horse shows that tension in the contact, swinging his head a bit. He’s listening and doing as Harald asks but it doesn’t look to be an easy ride.

The changes happen but the canter work isn’t as smooth as it could be really. He jumps through the final change a bit. They come back round to the center line and the tail’s going in circles by this point. Harald looks really pleased with his horse though. He’s got a big smile on his face and gives Vitorio a massive pat.

Some lovely highlights and a horse trying hard for his rider. He looks nicely relaxed as he walks out of the ring, still being patted. Thumbs up from Harald to the camera.

Harald Ambros and Vitorio du Montet score 34.9.

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🚜 We’re heading into a short break now. Competition resumes at 11:32am local time / 6:32am EST / 12:32am CEST. Back in a bit! 🚜

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6:05am

🇬🇧 Max Warburton and Deerpairc Revelry

Max Warburton and Deerpairc Revelry. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

This is my pick of the horses at Badminton, he’s just gorgeous. He’s strong and powerful and a great cross country horse. They get off to a solid start with scores trending in the 7s for the early trot work. The horse looks comfortable and confident in his work.

The halt at C is almost excellent, but doesn’t get the immobility and the scores show that. The reinback scores two 6s and a 7. The horse is really trying to concentrate on Max. He scores an 8 for the extended from the judge at B. Lovely work there.

They navigate the pirouettes neatly enough and then get a smooth transition back into trot for 7s across the board. The same again for the half pass, and the canters. Very consistent work being shown here.

The horse is clearly confident in his changes and they’re true and clean for more 7s on the whole. This pair are an example of a horse and rider totally on the same page and Max is riding very accurately for every mark. A real example of riding the horse you have to the very best of their ability. That’s winning at Badminton.

A solid performance which was very pleasing to watch.

Max Warburton and Deerpairc Revelry score 32.7.

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5:58am

🇬🇧 Helen Bates and Carpe Diem

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‘Demon’ gets off to a great start with two 8s and a 7 for the first halt. They get off into a expressive and flighty trot and the extended is beautiful, really pushing through and extending the frame. He’s soft and bouncy and trying so hard to focus on Helen. There’s no denying he’s noticing all the excitement going on, but she’s keeping him on side and he’s being a good boy.

The halt at C isn’t quite established but the reinback is clean and tidy. The extended walk is lovely for 7s across the board. It’s a mixed bag of scores for the first pirouette with two 6s and a 3, then they get a bit stuck in the second and score 4s across the board.

They get into the canter work and Helen pushes for the extended showing off the horse’s power. She does well to keep his concentration round the corner by the crowd. He stays with her though. His focus isn’t quite there for the changes and they prove to be expensive. That’s a pity as the horse has been trying really hard through this test to do as he’s being asked.

They come round for the final halt and his head goes up. Helen looks really pleased with his efforts and gives him a big stroke down the neck and a kind word. He was a really good boy overall and there were some really impressive highlights.

Helen Bates and Carpe Diem score 40.1.

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5:51am

🇬🇧 Tom Bird and Cowling Hot Gossip

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I remember watching this pair last year in this phase and smiling, because this horse is what I believe is a true eventer at heart – 100% in it for the cross country. He does dressage. But only so he gets to go running and jumping. He does work sweetly for Tom though and is doing everything that he’s being asked, just with a bit of a grumpy face on him.

There are some very nice marks for the reinback with a 7.5 in there, but the gelding isn’t very impressed by the walk. He’s shaking his head a little back and to and then jogs at the end – 4, 4, 5 for that. The first pirouette is more circle and scores a 3, the second is a little better. The horse is happier when he gets to trot and even more happy when he gets to canter down the long side of the ring. Scores are improving. Tom really does ride this horse for what he is and it’s nice to see a rider really ‘get’ his partner. He’s supportive and understanding and they’re both doing their best.

There’s fussiness in the mouth creeping in as the test goes on, the horse is ready for tomorrow. He halts sweetly at the end though and gets a huge pat from Tom. Two 7s in the scores to end their test. Seriously, watch out for them on course tomorrow. Dressage done. Some nice highlights which were rewarded by the judges. The horse walks out so relaxed. He’s pleased with himself.

Tom Bird and Cowling Hot Gossip score 45.1.

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5:44am

🇬🇧 Aaron Millar and Friendship VDL

Aaron Millar and Friendship VDL. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

This horse is for sure here for the next two days, but he looks to be settled enough as he comes into the ring. He seems to be listening to Aaron and his trot is very good, there’s an 8 in the scores for the collected. It’s a little inconsistent in places, there’s a little wobble in the shoulder-in but the quality of the movement is good. There’s an 8 for the 10m circle.

They halt at C and score two 8s and a 7. There are some real highlights on show here. The reinback is great for two 7.5s. The horse is really working so hard and really trying for his rider. They carefully navigate the walk work and the first pirouette is very good, but there’s a hesitation before he steps away from it. It’s a similar story for the second. But this horse is very composed and rideable which is great to see. They score an 9 and two 7.5s for the trot transition.

This is really shaping up to be an excellent showing from this pair. The canter is relaxed and flowing until the first change, which is a bit abrupt and scores two 4s. That’s a shame because everything else has been very confident and established on the whole. The changes are tricky though. They’ll be expensive. The final one scores 1, 1, 3 and is double marked.

They halt square to finish and score an 8, 7.5 and 7 for their final movement, which is very much more of a reflection of the test as a whole than those expensive mistakes in the changes. A little homework to do but my goodness, this is a combination to watch for the future. He was definitely trending sub-30 for much of that.

Aaron Millar and Friendship VDL score 35.9.

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5:37am

🇩🇪 Wouter De Cleene and Quintera

Wouter de Cleene and Quintera. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Wouter really does take his time to make his entry after the bell. He’s totally making sure Quinter’s on her game. They’re dead straight up the center line and halt square to get their Badminton underway.

They start off with scores in the 7s and 7.5s and continue on that trend as they get into the trot work. The horse is pushing through and looks to be supple and strong in her work. They’ve had a confident start to their test and the horse is listening and trying hard. The halt at C is good enough for two 8s and a 7.5. The reinback is a little sticky and there’s a 5.5 from the judge at H, 7.5 from the B judge.

They start the walk work and the horse is still looking relaxed and happy. She’s working in a lovely frame and the pair seem to work well together. The pirouettes are not easy for her and the scores drop a little. They get going into canter and everything looks steady but they’re not pulling in the big marks. A little more softness maybe. The changes are a bit of a mixed bag, some excellent for 7.5s, some not so good. They circle back round and finish up with a very square halt for two 7s and a 7.5.

Big pat for Quintera and she picks up her head for a good look around. Some nice work on show this morning from this pair. 7s in the collective marks for them.

Wouter De Cleene and Quintera score 37.4.

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5:30am

🇬🇧 Selina Milnes and Gelmer

Selina Milnes and Gelmer. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Gelmer’s really picking up his knees as he trots round the ring before the bell. Selina takes her time on the way to making her entrance up the center line. Gelmer’s a huge, powerful horse. He’s very expressive in his movement although he’s clearly a little excited to be at Badminton. He’s got a really big action but isn’t able to take that forward and extend his frame in the extended for big marks.

They halt at C and Selina tries to correct it to make it square but it doesn’t quite come off – two 6s and a 5 for that. The reinback is very neat for two 7s and a 6.5. They get going into the walk work and we can see that Gelmer’s a little fizzy under the surface. He thinks about jiggy jogging, there’s just a hint. He finds the pirouettes a little difficult – scores for the walk are 6s and some 5s on the whole.

They get smoothly back into trot and score 7s across the board for the transition. They set off into canter and really show the scope and power of this horse in the extended canter. Very balanced. Selina sets right up for the first change, which is clean enough. He finds the ones on the serpentine difficult though. This is a lot of horse to contain in the dressage. He’s trying really hard though.

They halt to finish and Gelmer looks up to the crowd. There’s an 8 for the final halt, that’s a nice mark to end on. Lots of things to like here and an exciting horse for tomorrow.

Selina Milnes and Gelmer score 37.6.

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5:23am

🇮🇪 Georgie Goss and Feloupe

Georgie Goss and Feloupe. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Georgie and Feloupe come into the ring and get their Badminton underway. Georgie has nine finishes here in nine starts – that’s a cool achievement. Feloupe is a lovely big horse and has a powerful trot to match. He’s pushing though and is soft and elegant. So far they’re creating a very nice picture and scores are trending in the 7s.

They halt at C but not for long before they reinback neatly for a 7.5 and two 7s. They set off into a relaxed walk and clearly show the difference in the extended. They navigate the first pirouette well but there are some signs of tension creeping in. The mare is slightly playing with the bit. That affects the bend round that tight turn.

They set off into canter and again, the extended is very purposeful. The scores are back up into the 7s for the canter work. They make the first change very neatly and are rewarded with an 8 from the C judge. The second isn’t quite as good and then the third doesn’t really work for them, scores drop to two 4s and a 5 there. The fourth is very nice for 7s across the board.

They circle back round to halt at the end and Feloupe gets a big pat. That was a sweet test showing harmony between horse and rider. There’s an 8 for the half circle back to the center line. Very nice. And sub-30. Great work.

Georgie Goss and Feloupe score 29.6.

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5:16am

🇺🇸 Grace Taylor and Game Changer

Grace Taylor and Game Changer. Photo by Sally Spickard.

We’re back with Grace and ‘Sydney’ as they canter round the ring waiting for the bell.

They get a good shot up the center line and come to a sudden halt, which is square and scores an 8 and two 7s. Great start. They get into trot and the horse looks relaxed and supple and is very lofty in the extended, that was lovely. He looks to be enjoying his time in the ring and is working well with his rider.

The halt at C is very well maintained and is rewarded with two 8s and a 7.5. That was beautiful. The reinback is very neat and tidy. They set off into a nicely relaxed walk and the horse shows some swing in the extended. The transition is very good and clearly shows the difference in pace. They navigate the pirouette well, a little sticky initially but neat all the way round.

They get a good transition into trot and then go smoothly into canter. Grace pushes for the extended and the horse responds very sweetly. He’s trying hard in his work and looks very confident. The changes are clearly established and on the aids, if a little big behind. The ones on the serpentine are really very good.

They halt at the end of what’s been overall, a great test. There’s a ‘Yeah!’ in the crowd. Sydney stretches his neck down for a sniff of the Badminton turf. It really is great to see just how relaxed many of these horses are after their tests, happy to be at Badminton and not at all bothered by the atmosphere. That was a pro job overall.

Grace Taylor and Game Changer score 36.1.

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🚜 We’re heading into a short break now. Competition resumes at 10:16am local time / 5:16am EST / 11:16am CEST. Back in a bit! 🚜

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EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

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4:49am

🇬🇧 Libby Seed and Heartbreaker Star Quality

Libby Seed and Heartbreaker Star Quality. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

‘Angel’ has a look at the first cross country fence as he makes his way round the ring waiting for the bell. Not today, but soon, Angel.

They canter into the ring and there are a few trot steps into the first halt. When they set off into trot, though, the scores improve. The gelding is moving nicely through his work and looks to be happy to do what Libby is asking. Nicola Wilson in the commentary box says the horse has a lovely expression on his face.

The halt at C is very nice – a 7.5 and 7 in the scores there. The reinback is very neat also for two 7s. They set off into walk and Angel starts to feel the sense of occasion. Libby gives him a little pat on the withers to let him know she’s got his back. The pirouettes are a little sticky.

Angel is happier to be in canter once the walk is finally done. Scores improve into the 7s in this section of the test. This really does look to be a sweet horse who tries hard in his work. He kind of guesses at the changes on the serpentine and scores 4s across the board for each, but he is trying.

They come back round to halt at the end of their test and Angel stretches his neck out. Phew, a job well enough done. Overall this was a nice picture of a partnership between horse and rider, working together to get the job done.

Libby Seed and Heartbreaker Star Quality score 36.6.

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4:42am

🇬🇧 Kate Rocher-Smith and Dassett Select

Kate Rocher and Dassett Select. Photo courtesy of Dassett Eventing.

They come dead straight up the center line and get things going with an 8 from the B judge. They get going into the trot work and everything looks neat and tidy on the whole – scores are trending in the 6.5s and 7s. The horse is clearly trying hard, but we can kind of see that when it should look a bit more effortless. But he’s listening and doing everything asked of him.

They halt at C and then the reinback is very clear and deliberate. That scores two 7s and a 6.5. They get going in the walk and it’s similar to the trot – precise and neat but not really showing all the relaxation for the bigger marks. They navigate the pirouettes very neatly.

They set off into canter and the horse shows how responsive he is in the transition from extended. He’s going along very sweetly and clearly knows his job. The changes are clean and easy but not really expressive for big marks. This guy is confident in his work, for sure. They halt at the end and he looks up at the crowd. What a good boy. He scratches his nose. Overall there was a lot to like in this test. A confident horse working very nicely with his rider. The crowd cheers her out and she waves. Nice.

Kate Rocher-Smith and Dassett Select score 33.1.

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4:35am

🇮🇪 Susie Berry and Clever Trick

Susie Berry and Clever Trick. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

🦉 Clever Trick is known as ‘Owl’ in the barn.

It won’t be easy to come into the ring after a test like that but they nail it with two 8s for the first halt. Owl looks confident and she’s elegant in her trot work. It’s very flowing and easy. She shows beautiful positioning in the shoulder-in. So far so good for them. There’s an 8 in the marks for the 10m circle.

The halt at C isn’t quite there as Owl anticipates the reinback. Scores drop significantly there. They set off into a relaxed walk, but it’s not quite so soft as the trot work – the extended scores 6.5s across the board. The first pirouette is very good and scores 7, the second a little sticky. Susie has to work to get the relaxation back as they set off into trot and Owl looks to be getting a little more tense as things progress.

They set off into canter and the scores stay in the 6s with some 7s. The tension shows up in the changes though. The first scores two 4s and a 5 and then she pokes her nose up before the second. They’re a bit tricky. Her trot work was so confident but the excitement of the occasion has built as the test went on.

They score 7s across the board for the final halt and Owl stretches her neck out. She’s worked hard and put in a solid enough effort. A test of two halves, really.

Susie Berry and Clever Trick score 36.4.

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4:28am

🇬🇧 Rosalind Canter and Lordships Graffalo

Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

✨ Multiple 5* winning combo!

World No. 5 Ros Canter took the Badminton title in 2023 with ‘Walter’ and then the pair won Burghley last season. She says Walter’s the perfect eventer – he enjoys all three phases and is equally talented in all of them. To borrow from Shakespeare, ‘Consistency, thou art a jewel’ 💎 – will it be the jewel in Walter’s Badminton crown once more? 👑

OK, here we go. Will we have a new leader? Watch this space…

‘Walter’ is in the ring.

They halt square and set the tone for their test with two 8s and an 8.5.

They set off into a springy and expressive trot – 9 for the collected. Lots of 8s and 8.5s. This horse is so supple – 8s across the board for the extended and the transition. Beautiful work on show. This is smooth, easy, seamless.

The halt at C gets a 9 from the judge at C and 7.5 from the two others. The reinback is a little rushed and scores drop to 7s. Walter is super relaxed in the walk. He swings his bum and uses his whole body and scores two 8s for the extended. Pirouettes? No worry for Walter. Two 8s for the first and two more for the second.

We get to see a little more of his expressive trot WE HAVE A 10 for the half pass!

And now Walter shows more of his quality in the canter with scores trending in the 8s. But oh, the first change is 4s – he double tapped his feet on the ground. He makes up for it with the two on the serpentine, but the fourth one scores 4s. They are expensive mistakes. The two they missed are marked double.

Where will they land? So many 8s, some 9s, a 10. But not error free… Collectives are 8s and an 8.5… Into second…

Rosalind Canter and Lordships Graffalo score 25.3.

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4:21am

🇩🇪 Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH

Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

They make a very clean entrance up the center line but the halt isn’t quite what Christoph would have wanted and has a mixed bag of scores – 5.5, 7.5. 5 for that. No matter, we move on. They get going into the trot work and things improve immediately. The horse is flowing and settled and there are lots of scores in the 7s with an 8 or two.

The halt at C is excellent and scores two 8s and a 7.5 and the reinback is dead straight for an 8 and two 7s. There’s a little something something bubbling away in the walk work and the steps are a little bouncy rather than elongated and relaxed – 5s across the board for the extended. That tension remains for the pirouettes. The horse is again much happier once he gets into trot.

They get into canter and Christoph pushes in the extended showing this horse’s scope and power. He brings him back very smoothly and the canter marks on the whole are very good. The changes are clearly established and clean and Christoph navigates them purposefully.

They come round and halt on the center line but not before pulling in another 8 for the half circle back to the line. A big pat for D’Accord, who, incidentally, has the same sire as JL Dublin, the current leader. Overall there was a lot to like in this test, with some expensive walk work. The halt and reinback were real highlights.

Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH score 32.4.

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4:14am

🇮🇪 Ian Cassells and Master Point

Ian Cassells and Master Point. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

This pair make a smart entrance as they come into the ring. The first halt is very solid, great start for them for two 7.5s and a 7. They create a lovely picture as they trot round, it’s positive and harmonious and the horse is very much on his rider’s side. Lots of 7s and some 8s coming in at this stage.

‘Duke’ is very soft and willing and is trying really hard. He really does work nicely for his rider. He sure knows his job, he went to go straight into the reinback at C but Ian reminded him to halt for a bit first. They set off into a very relaxed walk, it’s swinging and flowing and actually very impressive. They navigate their way quietly round the pirouettes and scores 7s on the whole for the first. There’s a little resistance in the second and the scores aren’t quite as good.

The get a smooth transition into canter and again, it’s all very quiet and easy looking. Scores are back up in the 7s with some 8s now. This is a very smart test so far. The horse looks rideable and very confident in his work. The changes are clearly solid although he kicks the board on the final change as he swung his quarters out. The horse stayed calm and collected though.

They halt at the end and Master Point has a bite of Badminton grass as he ambles out of the ring. A very relaxed horse who was confident and happy in his work throughout. A very nice start to their competition with a 5* PB for Ian.

Ian Cassells and Master Point score 30.7.

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4:07am

🇬🇧 Emma Thomas and Icarus

Emma Thomas and Icarus. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Icarus is really shining in the sunshine, he’s beautifully turned out. He decides to take a bathroom break as he comes into the ring. He was really lit up just at the last moment before they entered. That’s a tough start. The halt is not really a halt and he picks his head right up. Emma asks him forward but he goes back. She sits tight and gets him on side to set off in trot.

He’s griding his teeth as he trots round the ring but Emma seems to have settled him the best she can. He’s fussing round with the contact and is quite active in his head. Emma’s riding tactfully and gently encouraging him. The halt at C is much better than the first and they really do see the immobility. Emma came into it very quietly and rides the reinback in the same way, tactfully and quietly and very sensitively.

The walk is obviously going to be tricky with this horse. Emma’s really having to hold the horse together. There’s quite a bit of jiggy jogging but it honestly could be galloping by the looks of things so Emma’ll be taking what she can. They manage the pirouettes very well all things considered.

They set off into a quiet canter and Icarus does seem a little more settled now the walk’s over with. It’s so clear that this horse is going to be fabulous galloping cross country and he’s so ready for it to be Saturday right now.

Emma really is doing a great job of convincing Icarus to play ball. She manages to get the changes which shows that the horse is trying hard for her and is trying to listen. They come round to halt and Emma visibly gives a massive sigh of relief with a huge puff of her teeth. Phew. Superb job that woman.

Emma Thomas and Icarus score 46.8.

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4am

🇬🇧 Wills Oakden and A Class Cooley

Wills Oakden and A Class Cooley. Photo by Iain B Images.

Well the sun’s shining on Badminton as we get underway for the second day 🌞

Wills and ‘Felix’ begin their competition as they canter straight up the center line to halt square for an 8 from the judge at B. They set off into a balanced and rhythmical trot and there’s another 8 from the B judge, they’re obviously liking what they see. The horse is working quietly and consistently and the scores coming in for the early part of their test are trending in the 7s and 7.5s with a smattering of 8s.

The halt at C isn’t as good as the first one, Felix doesn’t really show the immobility there and the scores drop. The reinback is sound though. They set off into walk and the gelding stays nice and relaxed despite obviously being incredibly fit. There’s two 6s and a 7.5 for the extended.

The pirouettes are very good and score 7s, the second one earning an 8 from the judge at H. They get going into a smooth canter which has many of the same qualities as the trot – it’s fluid and rhythmical and effortless. Another 8 for the extended from the judge at B.

This all looks so easy. Felix really is confident in his work. Unfortunately the first change on the serpentine doesn’t come up – a mixed bag of scores there, 2. 6.5, 4. The other changes are much better though and are clearly established and expressive.

They come round and halt at the end of what’s been a sweet test. Quiet and accurate and very pleasing to watch. A good start to their Badminton.

Wills Oakden and A Class Cooley score 34.4.

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MARS Badminton Horse Trials: [Website] [Entries] [Timetable] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream] [XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

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EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.

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Samantha Cesnik and Graftango. Photo by Cealy Tetley.

The perfect preparation for a first Badminton for Australia’s Graftango, who carried Samantha Cesnik to equal 25th on 36.2 at MARS Badminton on Thursday, was a sun-soaked sojourn in St Tropez.

“She had a glorious winter in the South of France with my dressage coach, Brianna Burgess,” confesses Samantha, 39.

The pair arrived in France from Australia 10 days before Pau last year, and found themselves fairly literally under water.

“It was a big ask – she only had 10 days between getting off the plane and trotting up, and then it rained – proper ‘British’ mud – and she’d never seen anything like it. So it was more a baptism by water than fire!” Samantha says.

They completed, with a slow clear across country and something of a cricket score in the show jumping, and then the 14-year-old Grafenstolz mare was given “a long break”.

“Brianna brought her back into work for me and kept her going until I arrived in February. That decision paid off – we avoided the British winter, and she had a prep that was more like what she’s used to.”

Since February they have been based at Chris Burton’s former yard – now the home of the Prices – Chedington in Dorset.

“This spring has been much better. Everyone says the ground is a bit firm, but for us, it’s perfect. Even the weather feels a bit like home – warm and lovely,” says Samantha. “We’ve had a magical prep. Chedington is a brilliant facility, and luckily, we have similar micro-facilities in Australia. So it meant the horse could keep a very consistent program, which is definitely paying off now.”

Samantha has been training with former Badminton winner Sam Griffiths, a fellow Aussie, and Britain’s Nicola Wilson.

“I’ve known Sam for a long time, and I met Nicola earlier this year in Australia,” she explains. “It’s been amazing to have that kind of support on British soil. It’s really helped me hit the ground running and find my feet.”

She was “really happy” with Graftango’s dressage test at Badminton, saying: “I mean, she’s from Australia – we don’t get crowds like this! So to go in and keep it together is excellent. She’s not always the easiest to stay with, and she hasn’t necessarily put her best foot forward in dressage since arriving in the UK. But today, she gave us a little glimmer of how good she can be, and I’m really proud of her for bringing it out when it mattered. For me, being a first-timer here, it’s a big deal too. We both managed to keep a lid on it, so I’m relieved it’s over, but very pleased.”

Samantha, who spent some time at PSI in Germany and competed to a high level in dressage in Australia before “parking” that sport to concentrate fully on her eventing ambitions, got Graftango as a nine-year-old with the aim of doing some CCI3*-Ls.

“She’s a good jumping horse—not always the most careful or technical—but I needed one to help me get qualifiers and mileage,” she says. “Her breeder had competed a little, but being a breeder, sometimes you don’t always click with what you produce. They never really got along, and she was for sale for a long time. She’s a tricky mare and very particular about her people.

“After about nine months on the market, the breeder called and asked if I’d come try her. I did, and I just felt like we clicked—like she kind of chose me. Then COVID hit, which gave us time to get organised, and we started building from there.

“She’s 14 now but still pretty green. She did her first three-star about two and a half years ago. But she’s a warrior. She goes out and looks for the flags. She tries her heart out.”

Dressage at MARS Badminton continues today, and you can follow along using the link list below.

MARS Badminton Horse Trials: [Website] [Entries] [Timetable] [Timing & Scoring] [Live Stream] [XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of MARS Badminton Horse Trials is supported by Kentucky Performance Products. To learn more about Kentucky Performance Products’ science-backed nutritional support products, click here.