Classic Eventing Nation

Invictus Rings True for Mia Farley on Cross Country Day at Tryon International CCI4*-L

By on May 9, 2026 8:21 pm -

Mia Farley and Invictus. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Mia Farley knew she’d come out of this weekend’s CCI4*-L at Tryon International having learned new things, both about herself and her ride, Karen O’Connor’s Invictus. Ten years old this year, Invictus has quite a few competitions at the 4* level under his belt, including a debut at the TerraNova 4*-L in the fall of 2024, but today he confirmed a lot of what Mia had wanted to see on cross country.

It wasn’t a smooth day for all on Clayton Fredericks’ course, which exerted its influence across the 3* and 4* levels (Beth Perkins is the designer of the 2* and 1* levels this weekend) throughout the day. Things came a bit unraveled for overnight leaders Caroline Pamukcu, who encountered trouble at fence 19B, a corner combination. Caroline and Connor had two surprising runouts here, after which Caroline opted to call it a day. This opened the door for someone else to step ahead, as dressage runners-up Phillip Dutton and Denim had also found themselves with a truncated weekend after very sadly missing fence 7 on course.

Mia, who had gone early in the running order, had already laid down a standard with Invictus, who demonstrated his growth and strength to improve on his first 4*-L cross country result by jumping clear with just two and change time penalties added. They’ll now move ahead to show jumping as the leaders with a score of 32.4, one pole’s cushion ahead of Maya Clarkson and Maks Mojo C (36.7).

Mia Farley and Invictus. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Mia had a good sense of what kind of day it was going to be early on in the going. “I think Clayton wanted us to get a get some pace in the first minute, because it was pretty much single fence after single fence,” she debriefed. “And I was worried about, I think it was 8AB, because it was our first combination. It was a log down the hill to the squirrel and then a corner [at 9]. But when he came back to me there, I kind of knew that I could trust him for a lot of the course.”

Despite his general affable temperament, “Sammy” isn’t actually the most “set it and forget it” type of horse on cross country. “It’s not that he’s unridable, he’s just so laidback so when I do set a rhythm and try to be quiet on him, in a way I do need to kind of keep changing it up so he stays on top of it. But that’s just kind of his personality.”

The overarching feeling she has this evening is that this horse has truly revealed that he has a lot of the ingredients to be a top horse. His fitness was a key component of that gut feeling on Saturday, further underscored by the feature of the famous WEG Hill at Tryon — a grueling uphill climb that was the concluding portion of the 2018 World Equestrian Games track: “He surprised me in the sense that, while he has a lot of Thoroughbred blood, I honestly thought he might get a bit tired at the end, but he didn’t — he just kept going.”

Mia Farley and Invictus. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

“It makes me excited, because I think that, after today, I learned that he’s got a lot of the things that we’re looking for as a top horse,” Mia continued. “I was very impressed with him today. I feel like he had my back just as much as I had his.”

Following cross country at Kentucky, where Mia eventually finished on the podium of the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S, she shared in the press conference that she had lost a bit of her confidence in the final phase. The past few months have been a study in regaining that — she’s recently enlisted the help of show jumping Olympian Peter Wylde for this component of her riding — and she’s feeling fairly calm ahead of tomorrow.

“My round at Kentucky [gave me more confidence] and so did my [three-star] show jumping yesterday with Pina Colada,” she shared. “He knows the job tomorrow, and I know that he’ll try. He show jumped well at TerraNova [in 2024, his last 4*-L]. It’ll just be a little bit a part of this learning weekend — I’m definitely learning a lot about him.”

Maya Clarkson and Maks Mojo C. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Maya Clarkson also enjoyed a fun day today with Maks Mojo C, a horse she’s achieved a lot of milestones with, including her first 4* competitions. This weekend marks this pair’s second 4*-L and this time they earned their first clear cross country, moving up to claim second overnight with their score of 36.7 and just time added today.

Due to some setbacks — Maks Mojo C underwent surgery on his neck in 2024 to repair some damage, similar to an operation horses like Sara Kozumplik’s Rock Phantom have had — this sophomore effort at the Long level was a bit of a long time going. But looking back, Maya says she appreciates having the extra time to gain mileage at this level.

“I think when we moved up to the level, neither him nor I were truly ready for what we took on,” she said. They moved up to the level in 2023, having wrapped up their 3* campaign with a podium finish at the notoriously testing Bromont 3*-L. “He was my first Intermediate horse, so I don’t have that much experience, either. And so when we first got to the four-star level we just couldn’t get it right. I mean, it was fine, it was never anything bad, but it was more like ‘oh, we have a lot of work to do. We’re both really green.’ But I think we’ve learned a lot together and grown together, and it’s pretty cool sitting on him now and feeling like there’s a lot more left in the tank.”

Maya Clarkson and Maks Mojo C. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Maya also feels the longer courses suit “Maks” better as it is. “he’s quick enough in the shorts, because he’s super rideable — he goes in a leather snaffle for cross country — so I never really have to pull him in Shorts, but I never really let him run, run, just let him cruise around. So today I was like, ‘okay buddy, you got it,’ and he was just awesome.”

And the main highlight for Maya?

“I had fun,” she said. “Honestly, like, the whole thing. I remember when I moved up to the four-star level, it never really felt very fun.” By the way, here she paused to hand out milkshakes and dinner to her crew, so A+ Boss Award there for the milkshakes in particular. “Before he got his neck surgery, it honestly, like never really felt fun. It felt harder. And he was trying so hard, like he’s a good horse. And so once we figured out that his neck was uncomfortable, I feel like he does find it easier now.”

Arielle Aharoni and Cooley Baltic Sea. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Arielle Aharoni was also able to climb up in the standings to move from seventh into third with Filly’s Hope LLC’s Cooley Baltic Sea, adding 16.8 time penalties for a two-day score of 51.1. This was a first 4*-L effort for the 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding and really, a first long format in almost two years for Arielle herself. Since the retirement of her 5* partner, Dutch Times (who, by the way, has enjoyed spending his retirement with Arielle’s mom, Christina), Arielle’s been producing a string of young horses and also splitting time in the show jumping world (Cooley Baltic Sea actually stepped in for one of her jumpers at Live Oak International last year, jumping in the CSI1* Grand Prix). So today, it was a mixture of nerves and excitement — but then, more nerves — as she prepared to leave the start box.

It didn’t help that the 4*-S, which ran ahead of the Long division, was quite exciting and saw many problems, some of which came at questions shared by both courses.

“I was quite nervous heading out there, and I was changing my plans last minute,” Arielle laughed. “I had been watching the four-Short, and I was, like, my entire plan just…Oh, my God. I don’t think I’ve actually ever been that nervous heading out! I thought the two hardest questions were going to be the squirrels [at fences 8 and 9] and then the water of course. So I was kind of setting him up for the first half like, ‘we are not running out through our right shoulder!’ And you know what? He was pretty game. I had seen people slip around that turn to [fence 8] in the Short, so I planned on adding. I probably should have left him do the seven to the four, he was right on it. But I’m very proud of how he got through all that so easily. The biggest thing was that I was thinking he might get a little bit tired going up the incline, but when we got there he just galloped harder. I wanted him to get home clear and sound, and not gassed, so I was really happy with that.”

“He’s got a lot of fight in him,” she continued. And this is a different ride to her former top horse, Dutch Times, who she describes as an Energizer Bunny type that never got tired, never stopped fighting for the flags. So what would that feel like, if it happened with this horse? Today, she didn’t have to find out. “You always wonder if things don’t wind up perfect, if they’ll bail on you, but some things were not perfect out there and he was still getting his way through those flags. So I’m thrilled with that. And I learned he’s got a lot of run at the end of this! I hadn’t done a four-Long with him yet, so you always worry about how much gas they have in the tank. Now I know!”

Tamie Smith and Danito Take US Equestrian Open Qualifier CCI4*-S

Tamie Smith and Danito. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Tamie Smith is probably already working out a way to come back to the East coast this fall to run for the $200,000 US Equestrian Open of Eventing Final at Morven Park (VA) in October. She’s the current series points leader — which, remember, will net you an additional cash prize of up to $25,000 at the end of the season — with 205 points earned so far, and now adds another pile to the collection with 50 points earned from her 4*-S win today.

Danito was rerouted to Tryon after having some uncharacteristic blips on cross country in the equal division at Kentucky two weeks ago. Today, he encountered no such strife and added 8.4 time penalties to his 19.5 dressage score after show jumping double clear yesterday. His 19.5 provided enough cushion to have the time well in hand, making it a cruising victory for the 17-year-old Hanoverian gelding owned by Ruth Bley.

Tamie was a very busy woman today, so we didn’t quite get a chance to catch up with her before publishing this, but we’ll have plenty of opportunities to keep track of her as her East coast campaign begins to wrap up.

Will Coleman (who celebrated his birthday this week — happy birthday!) brought home second place with his 2025 Kentucky 4*-S winner Off the Record (owned by the Off the Record Syndicate), adding 3.2 easy time to their score to finish on a 30.3. Boyd Martin was able to jump up from ninth into third with Dallas LLC’s Shanroe Cooley (35.8).

Chris Barnard will design tomorrow’s show jumping tracks as we wrap up the Long divisions at Tryon. The jumping is scheduled to begin at 10:30am EST with the CCI2*-L, followed by the the CCI4*-L at 12:00pm EST and the CCI3*-L starting at 1:05pm EST. This phase will be live streamed on Horse & Country and you can access that feed here. To catch up on additional scores from Tryon and other information, refer to the link list below.

Tryon International Three-Day Event (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Schedule] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer]

“I Thought, ‘You Just Have to Try to Believe'”: Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo Top Turbulent Badminton Cross-Country Day

By on May 9, 2026 3:53 pm -

Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

About an hour into today’s cross-country phase at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials, it all looked a bit as though the writing was on the wall: the course was too soft, the time too gettable, and the whole day of sport set to be a non-event for the 59 starters and the 100,000 or so spectators on site.

“I was getting,” admits course designer Eric Winter, “a little bit worried.”

Certainly, the course had walked easier than in 2024, when it last ran in this direction. The twisty routes through multi-part combinations of that year had been replaced by much more direct lines through a proliferation of two-parters, and as this pivotal phase loomed closer, the general vibe around the place was a much more relaxed one than it necessarily has been in previous years. Several people even – dare we say it – expressed some amount of underwhelm.

So when the first couple of riders headed out on course and returned home with easy, steady clears – 4.4 time penalties for pathfinders Harry Meade and Et Hop du Matz and 13.6 for US rider Cosby Green and Jos Ufo de Quidam – and the third rider, Tom Jackson, added just 3.2 time penalties on the five-star first-timer United 36, and then Holly Richardson and Ballyneety Silver Service, a relatively inexperienced combination in the field, made the time by some twelve seconds, it truly did look as though the writing was on the wall.

But the beauty of a clever Badminton track is in the details that don’t come to the fore until a large enough sample size is on the table for review, and while this year’s course may not have been heaving with technical questions, Eric had made some canny calls in the way he’d used terrain, creating a cumulative effect that shifted horses off their balance and rhythm frequently enough to open the door for costly mistakes – and a time that was tight enough to exert its own influence.

It’s easy to look at seven rounds inside the time as an indicator of a soft clock, but it’s all relative: the horses and riders who caught the time easily were up on the clock early on and could then sustain the rhythm and balance over the variable terrain; those who found themselves playing catch-up were more susceptible to losing their stride pattern and having to take risks or long routes along the way. That, plus the extraordinarily tightly-packed scores after the first phase – overnight leaders Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo very much excepted – created a ripple effect throughout the day that enacted a seismic shift across the board.

“I was watching the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix last week, and I thought, ‘I could drive around that track like Kimi Antonelli [at a normal pace],” says Eric. “But I couldn’t do it at 215mph. When you add the speed into it, it amplifies [the intensity of the track].”

Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

If you had to watch one ride to see in perfect clarity how rhythm wins out over haste and hustle, you don’t need to go much further than first-phase leaders Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo, who added neither time nor jumping penalties to retain their lead and further solidify their bid to hold onto the Badminton title for the second year in a row.

Although Ros hasn’t had, perhaps, the most traditional lead-in to a major event – she had her second child, Seneh, at the tail end of January, and is still breast-feeding – such is the partnership she’s built with ‘Walter’, and so solid is the integrity of her foundations, that from the first fence to the final one, neither horse nor rider looked like they’d missed a day of training.

Though five-star cross-country riding can sometimes be inherently scrappy – it’s a test, after all, of the ability to adapt when things don’t go wholly to plan – there was never a moment in which Ros looked like she needed to over-adjust or make a sea change en route to a fence.

“I’m just very privileged to ride a horse like Walter, because he actually gives me time to set up, even for the normal fences,” says Ros. “There was never a moment where I’m really behind, so I’m able to give him the best version of myself, because he allows me to.”

But it’s easy to look at a round like theirs and see the harmony, the communication, and the framework of sensible training that’s helped the partnership get to that point. What it doesn’t necessarily communicate quite so readily is how much is going on inside a rider’s head, not just in the moments before they’re counted out of the start box, but in each of those achingly long eleven-and-a-half minutes on course.

“There’s a lot of pressure going around on a horse like that. Even coming to the final fence, I was like, ‘please don’t mess it, please don’t mess it up!’ But he’s just an absolute legend, isn’t he? He’s just the most amazing cross-country horse in the way he looks for his fences, but he lets me ride how I need to ride, and he gives himself every chance to clear the jumps.”

It never, she says, “feels [as easy as it looks] while you’re out there. I think there’s pressure not only around riding Walter, because of what he does and what he can do – but I actually haven’t been fast yet properly this year, other than a random intermediate where I still didn’t make the time. So there was pressure from that side today as well. Physically, I’m not up to where I was, but I was very confident that it wasn’t going to be a massive physical battle for me out there, because he makes my job so easy. But mentally, it was a lot of pressure.”

And, of course, “it’s been busy this week. It’s been really busy, having a baby and breastfeeding and all that, too. It was a question to myself: could I do it without having those moments to myself that I normally get? So today, I just woke up and I thought, ‘you know what? You just have to try and believe that even if you don’t put quite so much time into the things you normally do, that you can still do it, that you’ve still got it.’ And he just helped me do that the whole time.”

Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

A rider’s preparation for a cross-country round of this magnitude is relentless in its attention to detail: every moment is accounted for, every stride considered, every practice fence calculated. We see that in action, in all its various forms, throughout the day – the grooms with a lead rope clipped on until the split second their charge needs to leave the box; Emma Thomas sprinting behind Icarus as he’s ponied, riderless, into the arena alongside a hunt horse and only springing aboard the very moment she’s essential to the equation; the ones who hang back as long as possible, keeping away from the intoxicating buzz of it all until they know any further hesitation will risk a penalty.

And so it’s a particularly tricky thing when a hold on course necessitates a red light at the start, and all the work that’s been put in to create a peak of both energy and agreeability begins to unravel. That’s what happened to Ros today, and those spare minutes spent waiting, not knowing how long the wait might go on for, probably felt like the longest of her day.

Once again, though, they became a testament to her horse’s unmatched brain.

“I just thought, ‘well, that’s a bit annoying’ to start with,” says Ros. “And then they said, ‘oh, it’s going to be a bit longer’. But Walter just kind of settled down and wandered around. I was just a little bit concerned that he’d settle down too much, because he’s so comfortable with crowds and things like that, and he was just quite happy. He’d have wandered around there all day — but actually, I picked up canter and gave him a little niggle with my leg, and he responded by pricking his ears. And I thought, ‘no, it’s absolutely fine. He’s not heating up, so we’ll just go with it.’”

With that faultless clear under their belts, Ros and Walter are one enormous step closer to a third Badminton title, which would be a fifth five-star title – they also won Burghley in 2024 and 2025. It’s not a bad CV for a horse who’s only fourteen this season, and it’s also a chance to make some eventing history: no horse has ever yet won Badminton three times. They head into tomorrow morning’s final horse inspection with a 6.6 penalty lead – but Ros remains pragmatic and won’t be moved to buy into the concept of sure things.

“There’s a long way to go before we get to that point,” she says. “The priority at the moment is Walter this evening. We’ll try and look back and enjoy the day today, and then it’s all about getting my head back into gear ready for tomorrow. Anything can happen; I’m a human, Walter’s a horse, and at the moment, I just get to be continually grateful to be the person who gets riding.”

Harry Meade and Annaghmore Valoner. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

Sitting those 6.6 time penalties behind her is Harry Meade, who tackled Eric’s track three times today, with three very different rounds. The first, aboard pathfinder Et Hop du Matz, was a sensible, reasonably steady fact-finding mission that accrued 4.4 time penalties, moving them from 40th place after dressage to 22nd after cross-country – “it’s his first Badminton, and he smiled the whole way around,” he says – and the third, near the end of the day’s sport, delivered one of the great shocks of the day when Harry picked up his first ever non-completion in 18 starts at this event.

That came with Cavalier Crystal, the three-time Burghley podium finisher, who’d been fourth here in 2025 and was, arguably, the strongest competitive shout of his three enviable entries. But at the tail end of an exceptional round, she jumped over the small ditch at the first element of fence 22AB, Mike Weaver’s Farm Yard, and stepped on her overreach boot. Had it happened anywhere else, there might well have been space for the catty mare to find her footing and pat the ground to get herself out of the complex, but the angled rail at 22B came up so shortly thereafter that even with her best effort to get cleanly to the other side, the frangible device was activated and Harry was thrown from the tack.

“She’s my most experienced horse, and she was sensational,” says Harry. “She basically pulled herself over that fence, and it’s really sad, because she’s an amazing horse who was desperately trying to do the job. That was my eighteenth ride around here, and I’ve had seventeen amazing rides – but ironically, that was probably the best of them all [until that point]. But that’s the sport – it keeps us all very grounded.”

It’s Harry’s second ride of the day, the 2024 Bramham CCI4*-L champion Annaghmore Valoner, who becomes his best hope for the title this week after finishing nine seconds inside the time to climb from first-phase 11th to overnight second.

“She was easy-peasy – and I love her,” says Harry, who inherited the ride from Sam Griffiths in 2022. “I’ve always had a real soft spot for her. I said to somebody the other day – maybe this sounds really weird – but she’s the only horse that I am happy to inhale her exhale. I wouldn’t even say that about my wife! That’s how much I love this horse.”

That soft spot has allowed Harry to see through the mare’s complicated interiority to the brave, bold event horse underneath.

“She’s always been a highly-strung, nervous, insecure, lacking confidence, slightly erratic horse. We’ve done plenty of lobbing around, working on relaxed breathing, but now she’s done two five-stars already and been fourth twice at Burghley. She jumped around this very, very easily – it was just a shame the time wasn’t 30 seconds tighter!”

Sarah Bullimore and Corimiro. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

One of the rounds of the day must be that of Sarah Bullimore and her ten-year-old homebred Corimiro, who made his five-star debut at Pau in October with a fifth-place finish, and looked today as though he’d had ten times that amount of experience at the level. He, like the more experienced horses ahead of him, looked unhurried, unruffled, and rhythmical all the way around, adding nothing to his scorecard to move from 19thplace to overnight third, just 1.8 time penalties behind Harry and Annaghmore Valoner.

“He’s phenomenal,” says Sarah, who bred the gelding from her former Europeans team ride Lilly Corinne, but nearly lost him as a newborn to dummy foal syndrome. “He’s the reason I’m still doing this and the reason I get out of bed in the morning. He’s just a pleasure – every phase is a pleasure. He’s a pleasure to take out hacking – everything he does, he just wants to go and do a good job, and wants to get on with it. He’s always saying, ‘come on, let’s, let’s do the next thing!’ He’s got a great brain.”

 Among his attributes, she says, are “such scope and such range, and just power. I knew maybe find he’d find a couple of distances a bit short. He’s always looking to go between the flags.”

That inclination helped them at the double of hooded corners at 28AB, when he slipped behind and Sarah made a quick decision to do an uncharacteristic addition.

“We hadn’t planned to put the extra stride in at the corners at the end, but with the big slip in the middle, [it was the right move],” she says. “But bless him, he just picked up and went, ‘okay, another one, fine!’ That was literally our only sort of sticky moment, and it wasn’t his fault. It was just quite greasy on the turn, and I hadn’t thought about it.”

Katie Magee and Treworra. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

British Open Champions Katie Magee and Treworra also romped home clear inside the time, moving themselves up the order from 26th to 4th – “he’s got such range and scope, hasn’t he?” she beamed – while Ireland’s Lucy Latta and RCA Patron Saint, second here in 2024, added just 2 time penalties to make a leap from 18th to fifth, equal in score with sixth-placed Tim Price and Falco, but ahead on the leaderboard because they finished closer to the 11:30 optimum time.

Lucy Latta and RCA Patron Saint. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

“He’s incredible, and I’m so lucky to be sat on him,” says Lucy. “He really lives for days like this – he’s a pleasure. But I’m actually a little bit frustrated with myself that I was five seconds over, because he had the legs for it today. He felt incredible underneath me, I just didn’t quite meet a little bit of time.”

Tim Price and Falco. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

Though it’s a first Badminton for Tim Price’s Falco, it’s not a first five-star: he was second at Maryland in 2024 and won Pau in 2021 – and he was sixth at the Paris Olympics two years ago and a double bronze medallist at the 2022 World Championships, to boot. But he’s also been what Tim wryly refers to as a “fake event horse” – he’s always been a preternaturally good jumper, but has had to learn how to be a cross-country horse.

Today, the seventeen-year-old, who’s owned by London 2012 course designer Sue Benson, proved that that learning is well-cemented – and heads into Sunday in overnight sixth place.

“He’s been quite a good four-and-a-half-star horse around some Paus and some other things,” laughs Tim, “but he was fantastic out there. He jumped super, and he looked after me a couple of times, which is what you want them to do. And he’s pulled up really well, touch wood.”

Will Rawlin and Ballycoog Breaker Boy. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

Though he’s never a horse that gives the fences much air, Will Rawlin’s Ballycoog Breaker Boy demonstrated today that an unconventional approach doesn’t necessarily engender an ineffective one. The lanky duo put 5.6 time penalties on the board, and will head into tomorrow morning’s final horse inspection in the same seventh position they occupied after dressage.

“He pulls it out of  the bag for me – he’s such a champ,” says Will, who’s well-supported here by members of his microsyndicate-style WRE Experience. “I’m so lucky to be riding a horse like him. He really just performs on the stage like this – he loves the big stage, and he loves the big tracks. He’s not the biggest jumper over the fences, and it doesn’t get pretty when it gets to the end, when he gets tired, but he will always pick up and get down and carry on galloping.”

Will’s handful of time penalties were accrued in the final few fences on the course, when that bit of leg-weariness began to kick in, and Will made the sensible call to steady up and help his horse in the air.

 “It’s a shame, because we were really on our minute markers – which I was actually quite shocked and surprised about, because I didn’t really look at my time much, but I just kept on talking to him, plugging away,” says Will. “I said, ‘come on, keep going. We’ve got this’. And he kept on going. Over the last three fences he really had to make an effort to jump, but I always knew he was going to get over the fences. Probably from a spectator point of view, they all thought it was a bit hairy. But I’ve got so much trust in him and he’s got so much trust in me, and we’ve got such good partnership that we just support each other wherever we are on the course.”

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Hooney d’Arville. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

Belgian five-star champions Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Hooney d’Arville – another homebred in our line-up – slip a scant handful of places from third to eighth after adding 6.4 time penalties on course, but a delighted Lara was delighted with another classy Badminton clear after a little hiccup early on.

“We had a scary moment at fence two – I had a forward shot, and she drifted to the left, and she took out the decor on the side; a big barrel,” she explains.

But no harm was done, and the pair made light work of the rest of the course – though, like Will, Lara opted to preserve her horse over the final fences rather than chasing down the time.

“I thought I rode my horse and not the results, which was the biggest achievement for me to happen today,” says Lara. “And she did well; she felt happy, so I’m happy.”

The course, she says, “was turning more than I would have expected. I felt a bit like I was in the Monaco Grand Prix. Then you have some long stretches, but you don’t know how much you want to keep in the tank, but everything came really in front of me and I think we did a pretty good job to achieve what we wanted to today.”

Tom Jackson and United 36. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

Tom Jackson was double-handed today, and while his second ride, the former Nicola Wilson mount Hawk Eye, had an educational completion after a similar stumble to Harry Meade’s Cavalier Crystal, his five-star debutant United 36 started his day – and ours – with an impressive, quick clear.

“It’s just quite unbelievable,” says Tom. “He’s just a ten-year-old, and this time last year he hadn’t even done a four-star long. He just ate that up and made it feel like he’d been doing it for however many years before. I’m delighted with him.”

The pair will go into tomorrow’s finale in ninth place, up from 20th after adding just 3.2 time penalties.

Aaron Millar and Friendship VDL. Photo by Sophie Robins / Girl In The Field.

Aaron Millar rounds out the top ten overnight with another excellent climb, this time from 36th with the smart Friendship VDL. The pair cruised around without any extracurricular activities and added just 0.4 time penalties, stopping the clock on 11:31.

“I owe it all to the horse,” says Aaron of the . “It’s been  a little bit of a worry, because he’s only done two Open Intermediates early on in the season before he came here, but I’ve always believed in the horse. I know he’s a good horse.”

 It’s a welcome return to the top level for the pair, who jumped clear around Burghley in 2024 and then had an abortive 2025, withdrawing after dressage here and then before the dressage at Burghley.

Those incredible climbs into the top ten were also made possible by a number of surprise mistakes by well-placed combinations: dressage runners-up Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl dropped to 45th after a shock refusal at the house atop the bank at 18AB, which caused several problems throughout the day, and then two frangible activations later on; Caroline Powell and her 2024 winner Greenacres Special Cavalier also stopped here and then retired, stopping at the neighbouring ice cream van for a treat before hacking back to the stables; Brazil’s Marcio Carvalho Jorge and his first-timer Royal Encounter slipped from 6th to 27th after a clear round with 15.2 time penalties when the horse tired late on course and Marcio executed some clever – but very long – long routes; Wills Oakden and Keep It Cooley dropped from 8th to 43rd after some green mistakes; Emily King and Valmy Biats swapped 11th for 44th when adding 40 jumping penalties for circling between fences at Sustainability Bay and between the parallels at 30ABC. Bubby Upton, too, moved out of the top ten, from 9th to 24th, when adding 12 time penalties in a measured round with Cola.

The US contingent had a mixed bag of a day: alongside those heartbreaking penalties for Tiana and Cancaras Girl, there was a retirement for Grace Taylor and Game Changer in the midst of a punchy round; a frightening fall for Cassie Sanger and Redfield Fyre at Sustainability Bay, after which both are thankfully totally okay; while early-goers Cosby Green and Jos Ufo de Quidam had a happier outing with 13.6 time penalties and a climb from 35th to 29th.

Next on the agenda? An evening of icing, hand-walking, and polo mints for the horses who tackled today’s track; a pint for the rest of us; and the countdown to tomorrow morning’s final horse inspection at 8.30 a.m. (3.30 a.m. EST), for which 45 horses and riders are currently eligible. We’ll join you then with all the news you need to know. Until then – Go Eventing!

The top ten after cross-country at MARS Badminton.

MARS Badminton CCI5*: [Website] [Tickets] [Live Stream] [Entries] [Schedule] [Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

MARS Badminton Cross Country – All the Action As It Happens: Live Blog

By on May 9, 2026 6:00 am -

Badminton done gone Yellowstone, y’all. Photo via CrossCountry App.

We’re back with EN’s classic live blog for the second time this season to bring you every scrap of the cross country action as it happens from MARS Badminton. Stay tuned ENers, we’re in for one heck of a ride. I’ll be with you all day long as the story of this year’s immense field duking it out against Eric Winter’s mighty track unfolds.

The line up spans 5* winners to rookies having their first taste of the top and there’s everything to play for as the best day at Badminton dawns.

Here’s a little look at what’s in store.

Wonderful “Walter” and the Legend that is Lordships Graffalo:

There’s history making in the offing with reigning champs Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo going for back-to-back-to-back wins (as a Wrexham AFC local, I’m well versed in this kind of Hollywood-inspired story – IYKYK). Badminton has been running since 1949 and in all that time no horse and rider pair have ever managed the ultimate feat three times – that’s how special this combination is. Not only that, but Ros and “Walter” have already done the double-double, having won both Badminton and Burghley for the past two years; if they win this weekend they’ll be aiming for the triple-double in the fall.

What a privilege it is for eventing fans to witness this kind of stardom, achieved with such quiet grace and seeming effortlessness. They get their bid for further greatness underway at 9:17am ET / 3:17pm CEST and are certainly a combination that you do not want to miss.

Harry’s Ladies are Up For It:

Harry Meade’s at Badminton with his herd once more and has three chances at finally quelling the 5* win door knocking that’s grown more and more insistent over recent seasons. He’s the only World No. 1 not to have won a 5* and will be going for his classic clears inside the time today in a bid to put that right.

He’ll trailblaze with last year’s Kentucky 3rd placer Et Hop du Matz, before the showdown begins between his two talented mares.

Cavalier Crystal’s beaten Annaghmore Valoner to the Burghley podium two years running – which lass will triumph in the battle between Harry’s ladies this week? On the one hand, Annaghmore Valoner’s at Badminton for the first time, but has those two Burghley 4th places under her cinch. And on the other, Cavalier Crystal was 4th at Badminton last year and has two consecutive 3rd place finishes at Burghley on her card.

It’s a scrap between the stablemates you don’t want to miss.

Et Hop du Matz is first on course at 6:30am ET / 12:30pm CEST, Annaghmore Valoner gets the girl power going at 8:53am ET / 2:53pm CEST and Cavalier Crystal will have her say at 10:43am / 4:43pm CEST.

5* Champs are In Da House:

The field is positively oozing with quality (the good kind of ooze). There’s strength and depth throughout the line up which isn’t reserved to those who’ve already proved their class by adding to their bling cabinet, however, for the purpose at hand, I’ll highlight the ones who’ve done just that:

Tim Price has no fewer than six 5* wins to his name, although so far Badminton has eluded him. He’s having a crack at putting that right this week with Pau winner Falco. See them in action at 10:19am / 4:19pm CEST.

Laura Collett’s got three 5* victories on her card, including Badminton in 2022. She comes forward with the interesting mare Bling, who’s been improving year on year and placed 10th at Burghley last fall. They leave the box at 9:35am ET / 3:35pm CEST.

Felix Vogg made history at Maryland last season when he became the first Swiss rider to win two 5*s, having already won Luhmühlen on his birthday back in 2022. His Badminton ride Cartania made it happen for him in Maryland and she’s keen as (Swiss) mustard out on cross country. It’ll be squeaky bum time for Felix (and viewers with a nervous disposition) at 10:15am ET / 4:15pm CEST.

Fellow history maker Lara de Liedekerke-Meier took the Luhmühlen crown in 2022 to secure Belgium’s first ever top-level victory. She’s at Badminton with her 5* queen, homebred Hooney d’Arville and hoping for another taste of glory. See how they fare in their quest at 10:10am ET / 4:10pm CEST.

The 2024 winners are back after missing out on defending their title last year. Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier turned the tables true and proper when they returned after coming last to win the whole dang thing a year later. Caroline’s also a Burghley winner (with the late, great Lenamore) and no doubt wouldn’t mind having a hattrick of 5* wins on her card one bit. They’ll be on track at 10:47am ET / 4:47pm CEST.

It’s a Rollercoaster, Baby, Just Gotta Ride It:

We all know that eventing’s a game of ups and downs, literally and figuratively. All the familiar adages apply about getting back on the horse and not winning is learning and brushing yourself off and keeping on trying, and eventers are some of the toughest stock out there. This all no doubt applies to every single rider in the field, but I’ve picked out a few who’ve had heartbreak, disappointment and nearlys but not quites right in front of our eyes on the world stage at Badminton:

No one is more aware of the big dipper-ness of eventing than Gemma Stevens, who, with Bicton pop-up 5* winner and careful show jumper Chilli Knight, last year went into the final phase in a podium position, only to leave the ring heartbroken. I have to admit, I shed a tear alongside Gemma that day. But redemption is the name of the game so often in eventing and Gemma’ll give it everything she’s got and then some to not let history repeat itself. They were clear inside the time on cross country day last year so you’ll have to be quick if you want to catch them in action at 6:55am ET / 12:55pm CSET.

2024’s runners-up on their debut at the level, Lucy Latta and RCA Patron Saint were unable to return last year for another crack at the Badminton podium after a disappointing run of bad luck for Lucy and the exciting gelding. But here they are, primed and ready to show the world what they’re made of once more. They’ll be speedy out there – see them at 7:39am ET / 1:39pm CEST.

Alex Hua Tian had the save of the day last year with Chicko, and although his competition didn’t end with him eating dirt, it also didn’t end by crossing the finish line. This pairing have been 4th and 6th at Pau and are tantalizingly close to a first 5* podium. See if they have better luck this year at 8:49am ET / 2:49pm CEST.

Emily King is another podium door knocker who’s had to get used to a few knocks of the not so good kind on her journey with Valmy Biats. They’ve got 11 5* starts on their card and six completions, but when things are good, they’re great. They were 5th at Badminton last year and 4th the year before and surely, surely, one day very soon they’ll get their toe on that podium step and never get down. See if that year might be this year at 9:21am ET / 3:21pm CEST.

Bubby Upton’s another one who’s felt the bitter disappointment of what might have been at Badminton. Her and her best pal Cola had looked unstoppable in 2022 but then the unthinkable happened – Bubby was excited to see the finish flags, Cola was excited to see the finish flags, everything got a bit too exciting and they picked up 20 penalties at the very last fence. They say every day’s a school day but ugh, what a rough way to learn a lesson. To be honest, though, if anyone can deal with a setback and come back more determined than ever, it’s Bubby. She proved that a million times over in 2024 when she battled through rehab for a serious spinal injury and then returned to the sport at Badminton and was dressage leader going into cross country. A frangible device spoiled the party that year, then last year there was further disappointment when two uncharacteristic rails in the final phase dropped them down the order to 8th. It will be Bubby’s time at some point, no doubt about that. Check out this determined gal at 7:15am ET / 1:15pm CEST.

American Girls:

Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl brought Day One home for the US with an elegant performance from both ladies in the dressage phase shooting them right to the top of the leaderboard with a score of 28.1, including a whopping 9 for a flying change. Afterwards Tiana couldn’t believe it – that the horse she planned to sell as a “cute Juniors horse” was in the lead at Badminton. She summed up her journey with the special mare very nicely, saying, “She proves that if you just keep chipping away and you train them well, then they really can keep growing and growing”. We’re here for it, for sure. Catch their round at 8:25am ET / 2:25pm CEST.

New Kids on the Block:

And finally, a couple of interesting notations who are newer to the 5* scene, although piloted by jockeys who know and thing or two about the big time.

Long-time top eventer Sarah Bullimore brings forward her homebred Corimiro, who catapulted himself onto the 5* scene last season as a 9-year-old when he put in the round of the day on his debut at Pau – we’re talking miles inside the time and a smooth and very accomplished round. He ended up in 5th place, but for a rail in the show jumping he’d have won the thing. Watch out for this up-and-comer at 7:19am ET / 1:19pm CEST.

Daisy Berkeley’s back for the first time in 16 years and she’s well up for it with talented newbie Diese du Figuier. Last time she took on Badminton it was 2010 and she was on the podium. This time she comes forward with a rookie horse at the level, but he’s an exciting one who’s shown all the potential and then some. Have a look for yourself at 9:45am ET / 3:45pm CEST.

See the ride times for the full field here.

The above is a mere scratch on the surface of a field that’s so deep with talent you need a submarine to access its depths. For more – so much more – and especially if you’re of the ilk to crave the context for the Badminton form threaded through this live blog, take a deep dive into EN’s awesome Form Guide, where you’ll find the stories behind the numbers as well as a full bio of background for both horses and riders. Eventing geeks, click here and enjoy!

We know that Saturday’s a day when the leaderboard often gets jumbled up like a Boggle cube, but we have a podium following the dressage phase and it looks like this:

1️⃣ 🇬🇧 Top of the class between the white boards were Ros Canter and Lordship’s Graffalo who laid it all down and then some in the dressage ring to sit on a score of 23.7, 4.4 penalties ahead of the rest of the field.

2️⃣ 🇺🇲 Chasing the top spot are Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl who made light work of the test for a score of 28.1.

3️⃣ 🇧🇪 Rounding out the podium placings after the first phase are Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Hooney d’Arville who made their mark on the competition with a score of 28.6.

You’ll find the full scoreboard right here.

I’m as ready for the best day to truly begin as you are, however we do have to wait for starter’s orders. The live blog will begin when the first horse and rider combo leave the box, so whilst we anticipate that first countdown of the day, here’s some links for your perusal:

▶️ For absolutely everything about the competition this week, including schedules, reports, how to keep up with what’s going on and allsorts more, be sure to bookmark our Ultimate Guide which is brimming with Badminton deets.

▶️ Take a look at today’s track with Tilly’s Course Preview and see each fence up close and personal, along with explanations from course designer Eric Winter, by clicking here.

▶️ Get an insight into the riders’ reactions to the course right here.

▶️ Short on time but want to catch up on what’s been going on? We’ve got the ticket – for a rapid read of the main points from the dressage phase check out our brand new Rapid Update here.

▶️ And if you’ve got the time on your hands, you’ll find EN’s classic daily reports from the first two days of competition here: [Day One AM] [Day One PM] [Day Two AM] [Day Two PM].

As you know, here at EN we are never happier than when we’re typing our fingers down to bloody stumps, wearing ourselves thin to breaking point, befriending the owls and up with the larks, all to deliver the goods to you, fellow eventing nerds. You’ll find all of our blood, sweat and tears right here.

(Un)official footage from EN HQ:

via GIPHY

And that’s not all because we’re nothing if not generous in sharing our crazy. There’s also super fun shenanigans going on over on our Instagram channel @goeventing – follow along.

With all that said, a little ‘refresher’ on 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.

Kick off’s at 6:30am ET / 12:30pm CEST.
Stay tuned – and go eventing!

MARS Badminton CCI5*: [Website] [Tickets] [Entries] [Schedule] [Live Stream] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

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12:10am

SUMMARY OF THE DAY’S SPORT

Keep it locked onto EN for our classic full report – coming as soon as Tilly’s boots on the ground have wrangled the riders, knocked out 100,000 words and tracked down a cheeky chinchilla who’s schmoozing somewhere amongst the hospitality offering.

Until then, here’s a look back at some of what went down in today’s cross country:

1️⃣ 🇬🇧 Leading the pack is Ros Canter and Lordship’s Graffalo who stormed round the track clear and well inside the time to land on their superb dressage score of 23.7, 6.6 penalties ahead of the rest of the field – in show jumping terms that’s a whole fence plus a whole whack of time.

2️⃣ 🇬🇧 Chasing the top spot is Harry Meade and Annaghmore Valoner who really showed her mettle with a clear inside the time to stay on their dressage score of 30.3.

3️⃣ 🇬🇧 Just under 2 penalties behind second place, rounding out the rolling podium, is Sarah Bullimore and her wonderfully talented homebred the 10-year-old Corimiro who delivered another clear inside the time at the level and are still on their dressage score of 32.1.

4️⃣ 🇬🇧 It was a great day for Katie Magee and Treworra who were also clear inside the time at the level and jumped from 26th to 4th, and are on their dressage score of 33.3.

5️⃣ 🇮🇪 Lucy Latta had a great round with RCA Patron Saint, climbing the leaderboard from 18th to 5th after adding just 2 time penalties to their dressage score to sit on 33.9.

🇳🇿 Tim Price and Falco are on the same score of 33.9, but added 4 time penalties, making them further from the time than Lucy and therefore in 6th place.

Here’s a look at the rest of the top 20:

You’ll find the full scoreboard 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 some points of note from today’s competition:

▶️ 45 combinations completed cross country from 59 starters, with 6 combinations eliminated and 8 opting to retire on course. Problems came at 13 different fences, with the Vicarage Vee at 25 causing the most trouble overall with 5 combinations coming unstuck there.

⏰ Time After Time After Time After Time – 7 combinations made the time.

Ros Canter and Lordships Grafallo were 13 seconds inside.

Holly Richardson and Ballyneety Silver Service were 12 seconds inside.

Harry Meade and Anaghmore Valoner were 9 seconds inside.

Katie Magee and Treworra were 6 seconds inside.

Sarah Bullimore and Corimiro were 1 second inside.

Gaspard Maksud and Zaragoza were also inside but I missed by how much, so sorry to them.

Tayla Mason and Centannial were also inside but due to their hold we didn’t get an exact time, sorry.

👌 34 combinations jumped clear, 5 had frangible penalties and all flag penalties given were reviewed and taken away.

🪜 Leaderboard climbers are one of the unique features of our sport, and we had a fair few in the ascendency today:

Sam Watson and Ballyneety Rocketman rocketed themselves 32 places up the board into 21st place.

Padraig McCarthy and Lady Ophelia jumped 27 places into 20th place.

Three combinations clawed their way 26 places:

Aaron Millar and Friendship VDL were just 1 second over the time and find themselves in 10th place after that excellent showing.

Gaspard Maksud and Zaragoza added nothing to their dressage score and are now in =12th.

Tayla Mason and Centennial had the ride of their lives with a clear inside the time and are now in 14th place.

🥰 Some other rounds of note, but there were really so many:

Nadja Minder and Toblerone who had a ball out there with her mate making childhood dreams come true.

Cosby Green and Jos Ufo de Quidam who went out early and had a peach of a ride.

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Hooney d’Arville were so together you could slide a piece of paper between them.

Tom Jackson and United 36 were very impressive on the horse’s debut at the level, leaping from 20th after dressage into the top 10.

David Doel and Midnight Rollercoaster ended the day with a round that really showed what a great horseman David is and what Badminton’s all about for a 16-year-old horse at his first 5*, delivering a very nice clear jumping round with time.

💔 Not everyone can have the best day, that’s the sport sometimes, and there was huge disappointment for Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl who’d been brilliant in the dressage and sat in second going into today. They completed but with a 20, two frangible penalties and time. Afterwards Tiana said she’s proud of her little horse, just getting to Badminton is a huge achievement and jumping round the cross country course is a great thing.

All this, and much, much more, in vivid detail below – scroll ⬇️ and read ⬆️.

Wowza. What. A. Day.

It all wraps up tomorrow…

The show jumping phase is due to start at 6:30am ET / 12:30pm CEST with the top 20 going at 9:45am ET / 3:45pm CEST.

Thanks for following along with the live blog. I may no longer have fingerprints but all’s always well when we’ve had an epic day of cross country.

Don’t forget – eyes on for a full report, coming soon.

Box rest beckons for me.
Until next time ENers – Go eventing!

MARS Badminton CCI5*: [Website] [Tickets] [Entries] [Schedule] [Live Stream] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

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11:20am

STAY TUNED FOR A QUICK SUMMARY OF THE DAY’S SPORT HEADED YOUR WAY.

Keep hitting that refresh button – more horsing around coming up very soon…

via GIPHY

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11:18am:

That’s a wrap for the horses but the moment the doggos have been waiting for:

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11:15am

Here’s the top of the leaderboard at the end of all that:

Although they’re on the same score, Tim is actually in 6th as Lucy was closer to the time.

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11:12am

David shouts “Long route” at the Hollow at 26abc and gives the horse a really great ride through there. Nearly there now.

He’s careful through the corners at 28ab, beautifully ridden by David, of course.

He’s actually really good on the clock, despite taking a couple of long routes and really giving the horse a sympathetic ride on his debut at the level.

The horse looks to have plenty of gallop at the end of the track. He crosses the line to the cheers of the crowd. David has really given this horse a wonderful ride. Around 30 seconds over the time but a really good clear, confidence-building round. What a great way to end the day.

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11:10am

David and Tom are seeing the competition out now.

David’s horse has really gained confidence as he’s gone and he takes the straight route at the water at 20abcd and does great.

Tom is heading for home, over the time but banking a completion nonetheless. 12.4 time penalties for them, plus that 20. Disappointing but really great to see Hawk Eye finishing so well.

FYI: The doggos are in the Lake 🐶

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11:05am

FINAL COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 David Doel – Midnight Rollercoaster

David Doel and Midnight Rollercoaster, who’s making his debut at the level aged 16. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 35.8
Place: 37th

🏸 Form: Making his 5* debut (Midnight Rollercoaster, not David – he’s fresh off a 3rd place at Kentucky).

This is the final combination to go today.

It’s so interesting to see David riding horses other than Galileo, who we’re so used to seeing at the top level with him. He’s such a stylish rider in all phases on all horses. “Rocky” sure put his best hoof forward in the dressage, working hard for David despite not finding it the easiest phase. He’ll be happier out on cross country today.

The final horse is out on course.

David opts for the long route through Huntsman’s at 6ab, riding this rookie horse with care and wanting to give him a good experience. They have a nice ride into the Lake at 9ab and then really shows the horse the way through the related combination at 10ab.

Tom and Hawk Eye are super through the water at 20abcd, making it look very easy. Tom is absolutely flying and seeming very confident.

Goodness. Again. Hawk Eye does a little the same as Cavalier Crystal at 18ab. He jumps the ditch but then seems to stand on himself and pulls a shoe. They can’t jump the rails from there. 20 penalties for them. Gutted. They continue on.

Here’s a look at Caroline’s horse visiting the ice cream truck:

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11:02am

PENULTIMATE COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Tom Jackson – Hawk Eye

Tom Jackson’s got his eye on the prize with Hawk Eye. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 33.9
Place: 29th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut, but he’s been 19th at Burghley.

This gelding sure has a lovely head, he really is a smart horse. He got off to a smart start in his dressage test too but unfortunately got into a bit of a muddle in the canter work which really impacted his score. He’s amongst the highest-ranked cross country horses in the field though, so expect a leaderboard climb today.

Tom and Hawk Eye set off really confidently and get a really smooth ride through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab. He’s got a real chance of putting the cat among the pigeons in terms of the leaderboard today. They are very neat and tidy through the KBIS Slalom fences at 14ab and 15, slicing their way through there. Impressive thus far for them.

What is happening? Caroline has run into a problem at the LeMieux Village at 18. She jumps the ditch but misses her back legs and absolutely can’t jump the b element. She stumbles into the cabin fence which completely deforms. Horse and rider look fine, but what a disappointment.

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11am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇳🇿 Caroline Powell – Greenacres Special Cavalier

Caroline Powell finally gets to bring her Badminton champ Greenacres Special Cavalier back for another go. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Dressage Score: 28.9
Place: 5th

🏸 Form: 2024 champion.

“Cavvy” was so ready at the horse inspection on Wednesday, clearly glad to be back at Badminton. He stood up and gave the crowd a wave and Caroline breathed a huge sigh of relief when she made it to the end of the jog strip. Wowzers, what a start to their competition. The mare continued to be a little on her toes in the early part of her dressage test but once she settled she absolutely showed off her highlights and pulled in some big marks. Watch out for a brave and bold round incoming.

Caroline has a super ride through Huntsman’s at 6ab, shaving off every second possible as she aims to keep her top placing.

O.m.g. Harry Meade is on the ground. They get a good jump over the ditch at 22a but then Cavalier Crystal seemed to stand on herself and couldn’t get her legs up for the rail. The frangible device breaks, the horse tries to get over the fence, Harry’s popped out of the tack. He’s quickly up looking perplexed. That’s not something you see every day. Bummer.

It’s disappointing news for Holly also, who’s decided to put her hand up.

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10:55am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Harry Meade – Cavalier Crystal

Harry Meade’s talented lady, Cavalier Crystal. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 34.6
Place: 33rd

🏸 Form: 4th last year and has been 3rd at Burghley for the past three years.

Harry’s receiving yet another Armada Dish this year to bring his collection up to three, matching his dad’s total – he was the youngest ever rider to bag one when he got his first. “Nell” saw a g-g-g-ghost on the jog strip on Wednesday. Harry sure had his work cut out for him before the competition had even properly begun with both his gals giving him a hard time at the first horse inspection. That continued in the first phase for this mare a little, with a bit of tension impacting the marks throughout the test. She’s likely to stay on her dressage score though, with a quick clear very much on the cards today.

Just three more combinations to go after Harry and “Nell”.

Harry is superb through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab, classically classy and stylish. He makes it look effortless. They’re foot perfect through the LeMieux Village combination at 18ab.

Sadly we see Holly have a mishap at 20. They just don’t get to the corner in the water right and can’t jump it from there. 20 penalties for them. They continue on and have a really good jump over the Vicarage Vee at 25, Holly made sure he was totally straight there.

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10:57am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Holly Richardson – Bally Louis

Holly Richardson’s got the course well and truly etched into her brain ready for her ride with Bally Louis. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 41.2
Place: 55th

🏸 Form: EL in 2024 for missing a jump, but has been just outside the top 20 at Burghley.

“Louis” was his characteristically sweet self on the jog strip on Wednesday, pootling along and getting the job done. He put in a workmanlike round in the first phase, trying his best although he’s not a natural dressage horse. What he is though is a great cross country horse – super fun and game for the job. Holly’ll have a ball today with this guy.

Grace decided to put her hand up after that problem so Holly has the course to herself for a short while.

Holly looks to be having a lovely time with Bally Louis and has been jumping clear all the way. Not necessarily the quickest, but really fun to watch. They get a really nice shot over the bounce at 18ab and Louis jumps really big over the Trakehner at 19.

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10:50am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Tom Strawson – Public Address

Point-to-pointers turned eventers Tom Strawson and Public Address. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Dressage Score: 38.5
Place: 48th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut, but was 21st at Burghley.

It’s a far cry from point-to-pointing to doing dressage between the white boards, but “Brian” put his best hoof forward and flew the flag for the Thoroughbreds in eventing with a solid test. There’s no doubt his previous career prepared him for the scope and bravely required to put in a good round today. This’ll be a fun pair to watch out there.

Sadly we see Public Address looking a little sore after struggling through the Slalom fence at 14ab and 15. He gets straight off and the vets are immediately on hand.

Ah. Grace was having a cracking ride but then Game Changer jumps the ditch at 22a enormously, knuckles a little on landing and there’s just no way they can make it over the b element.

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10:45am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇺🇸 Grace Taylor – Game Changer

British-based US eventer Grace Taylor is hoping to be on her game with Game Changer. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 30.8
Place: =15th

🏸 Form: 18th in 2024, 30th last year.

“Sydney” had a scratchies on the jog strip on Wednesday, with proceedings paused while he got just the right spot. Good on you, lad, scratchies wait for no one. He looked very, very strong as Grace hung onto him, bucking and kicking when it was time to stop at the end. As he walked away he looked over his shoulder at the judges with a gleam in his eye. Grace could well have her work cut out for her, this guy’s got some sass. He stayed on her side for the dressage phase though so hopefully that’ll be the case today too.

Grace gets a bold start to her round and looks to be having a very brave round so far. Game Changer is great through the water at 20, clever with his footwork and Grace is very much in balance. Their partnership looks so strong and this round is looking fun so far.

Here’s a look at her at the earlier Lake:

Yikes, there’s a moment for Gaspard at the middle element of the Hollow at 26abc. It’s a bit of a miss but they make it over. He’s flapping his elbows as he jumps the roll top before the last and is absolutely thrilled as he crosses the finish line. CLEAR INSIDE THE TIME!!! He points to Zaragoza, high fives the groom and waves to the crowd. A super round for them.

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10:40am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇫🇷 Gaspard Maksud – Zaragoza

Gaspard Maksud and “Zoom Zoom” Zaragoza. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 36.4
Place: =38th

🏸 Form: 25th last year, and 7th at Burghley.

Gaspard did not disappoint at the horse inspection on Wednesday, with a red beret and matching shoes and a giant cock on his chest. Yep, you read that right. Curious? Click here. They left themselves with a bit to do today after some tension crept into their dressage test, with Zaragoza really wanting to have a look and see if the crowd was watching her. It’ll be pedal to the metal from Gaspard, who’s a bit of a heart-in-the-mouth kind of rider on cross country day. Squeaky bum time.

We see Gaspard being characteristically brave early on but then don’t see a lot of him afterwards, sorry but they’re showing as clear on the live scores.

Padraig is brave off the step at 26a and Ophelia really jumps well through the skinny line for the b and c elements. He comes toward home and really rides for the line. Clear jumping and just 2 seconds over. A fabulous round from this exciting mare.

Here’s a look at them over the Vicarage Vee:

The time’s not quite there for Tim and Falco but that doesn’t take away from what’s been a great round. Clear jumping, 6 time penalties for them. They finish on the same score as Lucy Latta but go just behind into 6th as they’re further from the time.

We’re hearing from Lara about the bond she has with Hooney, that she rode the horse underneath her today and not for the position. She says she listened to her and never chased the clock. Hooney did pick up a little cut and so Lara said they’ll pay attention to that overnight with regards to tomorrow’s show jumping.

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10:35am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇮🇪 Padraig McCarthy – Lady Ophelia

To be or not to be for Padraig McCarthy and Lady Ophelia?

Dressage Score: 38.2
Place: 47th

🏸 Form: Making her Badminton debut, but she’s been 15th at Pau.

This horse really is one beautiful lady and commanded attention on the jog strip on Wednesday. She tried to take off towards the cross country course but Padraig convinced her to wait for today. She was right on board at the start of the dressage phase, putting in a neat performance and really listening to Padraig, but sadly a couple of expensive mistakes happened in the later stages and so they find themselves with a bit to do today.

Ophelia looks keen when we catch up with her at the KBIS Slalom at 14ab and 15 but Padraig convinces her to take a smooth line through there.

Falco shows some clever footwork through the farm yard fence at 22ab and then gets an absolute corker over the Vicarage Vee at 5. He’s bold down the step at 26, very brave and then gets a great shot through the two skinnies at b and c.

Felix has crossed the line, clear jumping but with 7.2 time penalties, all that setting up really does eat away the seconds.

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10:30am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇳🇿 Tim Price – Falco

Tim Price and “brat” boy Falco, who’s well aware of how talented he is. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 29.9
Place: 10th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut, but he’s been 2nd at Maryland and won Pau.

Tim’s fresh from Kentucky and at his second 5* of the season, despite having a shoulder injury he picked up when he had a run in with a gate while riding a bike and lost. Tim hasn’t missed a Badminton in over a decade so that’s not about to stop him, but perhaps stick to four legs in future, hey. He’s got a bit of work to do today after a couple of expensive mistakes in what was otherwise a really stunning dressage test. Tim’s a master of producing a smooth cross country round and is always great to watch.

We’re into our final 10 combinations of the day now.

Tim gets a big jump into the Lake at 9a but he stays in balance and navigates round the related fences there. Really efficient and tight lines through there. Falco’s barrelling along with a grin on his face, showing what a great jumper he is at every fence. Tim opts to go round at the water at 20 and takes a pull too many into the final element but Falco works things out.

Cartania seems to have settled down a bit as she comes to the water at 20 but it’s very sticky over the middle element there, jumping almost from a stand still. But they go through there clear. They come to the big brush corners at 28ab and get a sweet line through there.

Lara’s had a peach of a round with Hooney. They stay inside the top 10 with clear jumping and 6.4 time penalties. Here’s a look at them earlier on in the course:

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10:25am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇨🇭 Felix Vogg – Cartania

Felix Vogg and super keen Cartania. Photo by Veronica Green-Gott.

Dressage Score: 28.7
Place: 4th

🏸 Form: 15th in 2023, 11th in 2024, EL last year, but won Maryland.

Swiss history maker Felix came into the first phase at Badminton meaning business, for sure. He had his game face on but Cartania didn’t always make things easy for him, feeling the atmosphere a little and wanting to have a look round to take in all the excitement. There were some excellent highlights and brave riding from Felix though to really go for the big scores and they’re in a great spot coming into today. This should be an exciting round.

Cartania looks keen at the start of the course, very feisty. They get very close to the white gates at 5ab and he looks back to check the frangible device is intact. Oop, they jump huge into the Lake at 9a and then get too close to the b element, hitting it with both front legs and tipping Felix right out of the plate. He rights himself and somehow manages to come round to the next part of those related fences without picking up penalties. A little wild, to be honest.

Lara opts to go round at the water at 20abcd but doesn’t waste any time and cut an efficient line through there. She goes on a long one at the final element and takes the flag but we can’t see on screen how close that was.

Meanwhile Ben has finished clear jumping with 3.2 time, a great showing from a rookie horse.

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10:22am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇧🇪 Lara de Liedekerke-Meier – Hooney d’Arville

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and homebred Hooney d’Arville have already made history for Belgium. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 28.6
Place: 3rd

🏸 Form: 14th last year, and won Luhmühlen in 2024 on her debut at the level.

So cool to be riding your baby round Badminton, with “Hooney” following in her mom’s 5* hoofprints. This pair got their competition off to a great start with an accomplished test in the dressage phase which was truly a pleasure to watch, and scoring a big PB to the obvious delight of Lara. She’s well-used to an eventing podium, with 21 international wins on her card last season – a record breaking result. She’s a superb rider across the country so we’re in for a masterclass – eyes on.

Lara is so balanced as she rides through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab. This pair clearly have so much confidence in one another. Really smart from both of them. They have a really neat jump over the big white plant oxer at 12 and kick on.

Aaron’s on his way home now and comes into the arena to huge cheers. The clock’s green. But goes red just as they cross the line. A superb clear jumping round and just a single second over the time. Excellent.

We still haven’t seen Ben, sorry, but he’s close to home and clear jumping according to the live scores.

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10:20am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇫🇷 Benjamin Massie – Filao de Perle

Benjamin Massie and Filao de Perle were clear inside the time at Pau last fall. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 33.2
Place: 25th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut, but he’s been 7th at Pau.

I spied a mullet on the jog strip on Wednesday, hidden under Benjamin’s helmet today, sadly. “Filao” was very keen for cross country day when he saw the MARS M in the main arena as he headed over for his dressage test, but he came nicely back to Benjamin once he was in the ring. He’s by Tom Carlisle’s late, great Upsilon and has already proved to be an exciting addition to the 5* scene. He sure was spicy at the first horse inspection, channeling his oh là là to the max. Will we see some Upsilon magic today? Eyes on this one.

Ben is having a great spin with his Badminton rookie. We haven’t seen a lot of him but what we have been has been smooth and impressive.

Aaron is very neat through the Sunken Road at 21ab.

Here’s a look at them at the fence just before that:

We’re hearing from Nadja who says Toblerone is a “cool pony”. She’s surprised when Clare tells her she’s gone into the top 10! She hopes that she can inspire girls and boys in Switzerland to dream big, just like she was inspired by the eventing greats like Andrew Nicholson and William Fox-Pitt when she watched Badminton as a kid. Lovely.

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10:17am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Aaron Millar – Friendship VDL

Aaron Millar’s hoping it will be his day, his week, his month, or even his year with Friendship VDL. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 35.5
Place: 36th

🏸 Form: WD before XC last year, but she’s been 25th at Burghley.

“Friendly” left a gift for the team to clean up a-l-l the way down the jog strip on Wednesday. Good for the roses. She kept things contained in the dressage ring putting in a sweet test, trying hard for her pal and being there for him almost the whole way through. A couple of bobbles but nothing that can’t be worked on for next time. It’s so great to see them go today after the disappointing withdrawal last year.

Aaron doesn’t look to be going super speedy but he’s looking for a completion here above all else. They’re popping away sweetly and look to be enjoying their time out on track. They get a smooth shot through the water at 20 but take the corner at the d element. It’ll be reviewed but looked to be OK.

Here’s a look at Nadja waving to the crowd at the finish:

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10:15am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇧🇪 Wouter De Cleene – Quintera

Wouter de Cleene’s looking for a clear round with Quintera. Photo by Alex Jeffery.

Dressage Score: 37.7
Place: 44th

🏸 Form: 46th last year.

Not so fun fact – Wouter’s got a bunch of stitches in his face and a black after being kicked by a horse a couple of days ago. It’s a tough sport, for sure. Things weren’t so easy for this pair in the first phase with some of mistakes creeping in so they’ve got a bit of work to do today.

Oh duck! Wouter and Quintera are a bit unbalanced through the water at 8, they make it through the owl hole but things are messy and Wouter’s bounced out of the saddle and has an unscheduled dismount. Horse and rider look to be OK but that’s so disappointing for them.

Meanwhile Toblerone looks a little tired as he nears home but Nadja knows this guy well and is taking good care of him. They come into the main arena and over the last. She rides for the line. Clear jumping and 6.8 time. What an achievement for this young rider and her 19-year-old pal.

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10:10am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇨🇭 Nadja Minder – Toblerone

Nadja Minder and her sweet-like-chocolate pal Toblerone. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Dressage Score: 30.3
Place: =11th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut, but he’s been top 20 at 5* twice.

Nadja rocked the jog strip on Wednesday wearing sneakers and a suit, looking totally chill with her equally relaxed buddy – very cool to see them enjoying their first time at Badminton together. This Young Riders to 5* pairing stepped right up to the mark in the dressage phase, pulling in some great scores for their highlights and putting themselves in a good spot heading into today.

They’re very quick and economical through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab. Nadja means business, for sure. We see them fly off the Broken Bridge at 13 and then straight through the huge brushes at the Slalom at 14 and 15ab, no doubt there. They’re so determined this pair, which they show in boatloads at the water at 20abcd. Totally committed, off the final element but some great footwork from the horse and a great ride from the rider and they make it happen. Great job! The Vicarage Vee at 25 looks easy, what a feeling that must’ve been.

Dreamliner’s such a dependable sort and he’s given Tom a really great ride round today. He’s clear jumping and 14 seconds over, going just outside the top 10. Very nice work from both horse and rider.

Here’s a look at them enjoying their time out there today:

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10:05am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Daisy Berkeley – Diese du Figuier

Daisy Berkeley’s back at Badminton after a 16 year hiatus – she was on the podium last time around and brings forward super-talented newcomer Diese du Figuier. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 32.9
Place: =23rd

🏸 Form: Making his 5* debut, but Daisy’s been on the Badminton podium.

Daisy’s swapped her Radio Badminton headset for her helmet this year and the airwaves’ loss sure is our gain as we get to see this experienced rider take her exciting newbie round the track. They got their campaign off to a great start with a soft and confident showing in the dressage phase, and he horse looked truly beautiful shining in the sunshine and showing off the daisies brushed onto his bum by a very attentive groom.

Oops, we see Daisy at the Lake at 9. They get a huge jump over the fish at a and just can’t make it to the b element. That’s so disappointing, but this is a learning exercise for this talented rookie horse. She jumps through the next combination in the water at 10 and then decides to call it a day.

Bling is full of running as she nears home after what’s been a really great showing from the mare. Laura punches the air as she crosses the line, just 4 time penalties to add and into the top 10. Brilliant.

Here’s a look at well-deserved big pats for Bling:

Dreamliner is dreamy over the Vicarage Vee at 25. No biggie for them.

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10am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Tom Rowland – Dreamliner

Tom Rowland’s hoping for a dream of a round with Dreamliner. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 32.2
Place: =20th

🏸 Form: 7th in 2024, 12th last year.

Local lad Tom doesn’t have far to come to get to Badminton and he sure looked right at home in the dressage ring with “Dreamer”. A confident test from both horse and rider put them in the very busy middle of the pack coming into today. This guy’s reliable as the day is long and really knows his job. He looks like a fun horse to go cross country on so let’s enjoy the ride.

We first see them through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab where they’re really positive and really confident. Tom was worried about the turn there but they got it very nicely.

Oh, Marcio has a big moment at the roofed corners at 28ab. They don’t get a good jump at all over the a element and Marcio’s thrown forward and loses his rein. He somehow amazingly manages to get everything back together and comes back to the b element without crossing his tracks. That was some nifty navigating. They make it round to the end, albeit a little leg weary and cross the line with 15.2 time penalties.

Here’s a look at them earlier on course:

We see Laura and Bling over the Vicarage Vee at 25 and Laura says, “Good girl” as they gallop away. She sounded really pleased with the mare. They’ve had trouble at the big step down at the Hollow at 26 in the past but there’s no question this time around.

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9:55am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Laura Collett – Bling

Previous Badminton winner Laura Collett and the interesting mare Bling. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Dressage Score: 33.5
Place: =27th

🏸 Form: 43rd last year, but she was 10th at Burghley.

Laura’s back eventing after breaking her collar bone early in the season but looked so ready in the dressage phase with Bling, with her game face on and going for every single mark she could. The horse looked confident and really with Laura which sure bodes well for today.

Laura gets a really smooth line through Huntsman’s at 6ab, showing us just what a fabulous cross country rider she is. Laura wastes no time through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab. Bling looks to be really enjoying her time out there.

We pick back up with Marcio through the farm yard at 22ab with a very nice ride and then around to the Luckington Corners at 23/24 and over the Vicarage Vee at 25 as though it’s nothing. This horse really is super impressive.

Sam has crossed the finish line clear with just 0.8 of a time penalty. Super news.

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9:50am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇧🇷 Marcio Carvalho Jorge – Royal Encounter

Marcio Carvalho Jorge and newly-minted 5* contender Royal Encounter. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 29.2
Place: 6th

🏸 Form: Making his 5* debut.

The Queen was at Badminton yesterday during this pair’s dressage test – a royal encounter for Royal Encounter, how apt. They really rose to the occasion with a soft, confident and happy showing on the horse’s very first time at the level. Accurate riding and a very correct test put them in a good place for today. One to watch for the future, and right now. How will “Felix” find his first 5* track?

We see them up at the village fence at 18ab and get a great shot through the bounce step there. The horse looks very confident on his first time at the level.

Emily and Valmy cross the finish line with a couple of problems out on course. Valmy got very strong and she had to circle away from the big parallel at the second element at 30, as well as that 20 from Sustainability Bay. 40 penalties for them and real disappointment.

We’re not seeing Sam, sorry, but he’ll be nearing home now.

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9:45am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇮🇪 Sam Watson – Ballyneety Rocketman

Sam Watson of EquiRatings geekdom and rocket-powered Ballyneety Rocketman. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 39.6
Place: 53rd

🏸 Form: 40th last year, but he was 13th at Burghley.

“Rocket” was very bouncy and keen down the jog strip on Wednesday, totally ready for lift-off. We saw a little of that in the first phase, where “Rocket” had one eye on the cross country fences in the arena. Sam gave him little pats on the way round to encourage the horse to relax some. It’s time to let all that power loose. Hang on tight, Sam!

We pick up Sam at the Lake at 9ab and 10ab. Rocket looks very keen as he gallops toward the waterfall fence at 11.

It’s a packed crowd at Badminton:

Ros is looking really good on the clock as she nears home. The whole round has just been seemless and beautiful.

She comes into the main arena, over the last, through the line. Perfect.

That round was clean enough to eat your dinner off.

CLEAR INSIDE THE TIME!!! 13 seconds inside. Easy peasy. The crowd are showing their appreciation for a superb round.

Here’s a picture of them at the Lake:

OK, so there’s something weird going on for Emily at the water at 20abcd. She seemed to present and then circle away. That’s 20 for them, but we’re really not sure what happened.

We’re hearing from Ros about how incredibly grateful she is for Walter. She says it’s been both a physical and mental challenge for her to be here. She’s feeding a baby and doesn’t have the time to focus on herself that she would usually. She gives all credit to Walter and her team, she’s proud of all of them and herself.

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9:40am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Emily King – Valmy Biats

Emily King’s been knocking on the door of a 5* podium for a while now with Valmy Biats. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 30.3
Place: =11th

🏸 Form: 4 starts, 2 completions – 4th and 5th place.

“Val” can be super strong but he was soft and rideable in the dressage phase, ears flopping and really listening to Emily. They put in a great clear round to get their Badminton underway and hopefully there’s another on its way across the country today.

We see Emily through Huntsman’s at 6ab and they waste no time at all through there. Val’s looking rideable at the start of the round. They drop neatly into the Lake at 9a and finds the four strides to the b element really easy. Emily looks to be super focused.

The crowd is clapping their appreciation as Ros and Walter make their way around the track and I’m applauding from my sofa too.

Sustainability Bay at 20abcd is really lovely. She saw her stride, took her time and made it all look very easy.

They get quite close to the rail after the ditch at 22b but doesn’t miss a beat. It’s noticeable how quiet things have got for this combination, even Tina Cook in the commentary box is holding her breath and whispering.

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9:35am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Ros Canter – Lordships Graffalo

Reigning champs Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo are going for back-to-back-to-back wins. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Dressage Score: 23.7
Place: 1st

🏸 Form: 3 starts, 3 podiums – 2nd, 1st, 1st. Also the reigning Burghley double champ.

“Walter” got his competition off to a characteristic start on Wednesday at the first horse inspection, happily jogging along like it was just any other day. Heavy is the head that wears the crown does not apply one iota to this guy. Despite being the protagonist for the big B’s over the past two seasons, he’s got no sense of his own importance, or of the occasion, he’s just a sweet guy having a lovely time. There was silence for their dressage test until the end, when they went storming into the lead and the crowd erupted. What a partnership this is. Let’s enjoy the masters at their work.

Cheg back after a quick bathroom break.

OK, here we go. Ros is on course.

They are classically neat and tidy at the start of the course, as expected. That hold won’t have bothered them at all, they’re such pros.

They have the course to themselves for the minute.

We see them come to the first water and through the owl hole at 9 – perfect through there.

The crowd is really quiet at the drop into the Lake and make their way through the big combinations at 9ab and 10ab, until they’re through and then the cheer comes.

There’s such an easy grace to these guys. He gets a brilliant jump over the white rails at the Project Pony Puzzle at 12. Broken Bridge next.

Beautiful.

Walter’s got his ears pricked as Ros balances for the Slalom combination at 14 and 15ab. Super neat through there.

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9:30am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇫🇷 Luc Château – Viens du Mont

Luc Chateau and Viens du Mont are looking for a hattrick of completions. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 40.8
Place: 54th

🏸 Form: 2 starts, 2 completions – 11th in 2023 and 32nd in 2024, and has been top 10 at Pau.

“Viens” sure knew he was at Badminton during the dressage phase, a little on his toes and definitely looking forward to today. He sure was ready to run. Shout out to his groom for his immaculate tail braid. We’re looking at a leaderboard climb for this pair today – they’re super experienced and brave across the country.

Unfortunately, Luc has an early fall at Huntsman’s at 6B. The horse caught a leg on the B element and Luc’s flung over the top.

Ros Canter’s been held at the start while he receives medical attention.

Good news: Luc is up on his feet and walking off course after that heavy fall at the Huntsmans Close. Ros should be sent on her way shortly, and they both look utterly relaxed as if they were simply waiting for their mates to go on a hack.

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9:25am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Fiona Kashel – Creevagh Silver De Haar

Fiona Kashel and her hero “Hero”, AKA Creevagh Silver de Haar. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 30.5
Place: 14th

🏸 Form: 2 cross country runs, 2 completions, including 35th place last year.

Another white white horse whose gleaming tail is a sight to behold. He flicked and swished it all the way through his dressage test, well aware of how beautiful it is. He was happy in his work though and it, rightfully IMO, didn’t seem to have an impact on the scores. It’s such a testament to his team that this veteran of the sport looks so fabulous. Fiona had a great ride in the first phase and is, hopefully, in for another one today.

Fiona Kashel finishes home clear with Creevagh Silver de Haar, adding just 12 time penalties to make good on this year’s effort.

We’ll just wait for Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo, our overnight leaders and defending champions, who are still held at the start.

Here’s a look at her:

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9:20am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Emma Thomas – Icarus

Emma Thomas will be flying high today with Icarus. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 45.5
Place: 59th

🏸 Form: 52nd last year, but he’s been top 20 at Burghley.

Emma brought some dark fairytale vibes to the horse inspection on Wednesday with a fur-trimmed coat that wouldn’t be out of place on some kind of dark winter queen. Fabulous. They were a little late to the dressage party, coming into view well after the bell had rung and cantering straight into the ring. To say Icarus feels the atmosphere is an understatement. He went to wave at the judges after the halt but Emma rode brilliantly, sympathetically persuading the horse to give his best effort. Today is his favorite, for sure. Watch them fly.

We don’t see a lot of Emma, sorry, but we do know that she picked up 20 penalties and had 6 time faults.

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9:15am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Wills Oakden – Keep It Cooley

Wills Oakden is looking for a first 5* completion for Keep It Cooley. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Dressage Score: 29.4
Place: 8th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut but has one previous 5* start.

Wills brought his knees to Badminton for the horse inspection on Wednesday, gracing the jog strip with a kilt, sporran flapping away as he trotted along. Suits you sir. A little misunderstanding in the dressage phase was really disappointing but they still went sub-30, showing just how much quality this horse has on the flat. He’s one of the fastest in the field today – eyes on.

The horse pecks slightly on landing at the water at 9ab and 10ab but Wills’ in balance and no drama there for them. There’s a lot of clicking as they come through the LeMieux Village at 18ab but they get the bounce and then kick on. He opts for the longer route at Sustainability Bay at 20 but the horse breaks into trot in the middle and they don’t have the oomph and come to a stop at the corner rails on the way out. 20 for them and cat amongst the pigeons for the top 10 on the leaderboard.

Oh, the frangible device goes at the Vicarage Vee at 25, almost exactly the same as what happened with Alex, the horse backed off and brought the hind down on the back rail. 11 penalties there for them.

Here’s a look at Wills earlier on in the course:

Max opts for the long route at the Hollow at 26ab. The horse dropped off the step nicely but Max must’ve felt that he didn’t want to take the risk of the two skinnies afterwards. max gets a really great line through the brush corner combination at 28.

We’re hearing from Harry about how much he loves Annaghmore Valoner. He says it felt easy, that the time could’ve been 30 seconds tighter and she’d have still made it.

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9:10am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Max Warburton – Deerpairc Revelry

Max Warburton’s looking to add a Badminton clear to Deerpairc Revelry’s card. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Dressage Score: 31.8
Place: 17th

🏸 Form: 45th last year but he’s been 18th at Burghley.

“Paske” had his tail up in the air and was really keen for the job at the first horse inspection on Wednesday, looking super fit and totally ready. He put in a nice workmanlike test in the dressage, very correct and relaxed, clearly happy in his work, but he’s not the flashiest mover on the flat and the scores reflected that. He’s amongst the fastest horses in the field today though – blink and you’ll miss ‘em.

We first see Max through the water at 9ab and 10ab, they’re very neat through there and the horse looks to be relishing the challenge today.

Harry’s nearing home now and doesn’t look to be in a rush at all. What a luxury to feel like you’re up on the clock. They get a superb jump over the rails at 30, the final combination. The mare’s looking great and traveling easily as she comes into the arena and over the last. CLEAR INSIDE THE TIME!!! And easy, 9 seconds under, could’ve been much more. Into the lead they go.

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9:05am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Harry Meade – Annaghmore Valoner

Harry Meade is knocking on the door of a 5* podium with talented mare Annaghmore Valoner. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 30.3
Place: =11th

🏸 Form: Making her Badminton debut, but she’s been 4th at Burghley for the past two years.

“Annie” said ‘no thanks very much’ on the jog strip on Wednesday and attempted to leg it back to the stables. Harry’s into boxing but had to channel his inner wrestler to convince his feisty lady to strut her stuff. He’d got her on side for the dressage phase and although she had a little spook at a flower pot, there was no big drama. Roll on to today’s round then – eyes on this one for a quick clear.

Harry is having a classic Harry round, quick and neat and tidy and very smooth. They get a superb shot over the bounce after the step at the Village at 18ab, excellent cross country riding and jumping from this pair. He takes the same line through the water at 20 as he did earlier with his first ride and he’s very efficient through there. They get a bit of a sticky jump through the farm yard at 22ab but Harry’s in balance and the horse is very genuine.

Here’s a look at them, ears pricked and eyes on:

Finally we get a view of Alex, he’s up at the Vicarage Vee and 25. Sadly it’s not great news. The horse really backed off coming in and breaks the frangible device with his hind end, so 11 penalties to add there for them. They continue on.

We see Alex over the line, carrying that 11 and with 14 time penalties, but a Badminton completion nonetheless.

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9am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇨🇳 Alex Hua Tian – Chicko

Alex Hua Tian’s hoping not to have the save of the day this time around with Chicko. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 32.8
Place: 22nd

🏸 Form: 1 start, looking for his first completion, but he’s been 4th and 6th at Pau.

Alex is such a technician across all three phases and really showed off every bit of his skill in the dressage phase, producing a beautifully presented test. It wasn’t without mistake and has left them a little work to do today, but they’re generally very good across the country so watch out for a leaderboard climb, should all go to plan.

We haven’t seen Alex and Chicko, sorry, but the live scores are showing them as clear through the Vicarage Oxer at 16

Will continues to have a good ride as he nears home now. He’s neat through the roofed corners at 28ab and isn’t far off the time as he comes towards the rails combination at 30abc, the last big combination. He hasn’t got his foot down but he’s covering the ground. He’s not quite going to do it. He jumps the last looking a bit tired, but they’ve done it. 5.6 time for them.

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8:55am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Will Rawlin – Ballycoog Breaker Boy

Will Rawlin and Ballycoog Breaker Boy have a lil’ moment. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 29.3
Place: 7th

🏸 Form: 2 starts, 2 completions – 24th in 2024 and 23rd last year.

Former model Will elicited a big cheer as he came down the catwalk jog strip on Wednesday. Will used his long legs to great effect in the dressage phase, keeping this equally leggy horse contained. They cut an elegant pair as they made their way around the ring, picking up some very nice marks and riding themselves into second place on the first day; they were 7th coming into today – a super start for their Badminton. Now to continue that buzz.

This pair are very neat through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab. He’s a big horse but Will really managed the distances through there very nicely. They look a bit steady but this horse has a huge stride so it’s quite deceptive.

Here’s a look at Will getting a flyer at the waterfall at 11:

Michael continues to have a nice, confidence-building ride with his rookie horse. They’re not speeding but the horse looks confident and happy on his first time at the level. They cross the line with 28.6 time penalties and clear jumping. A very nice effort from this exciting horse for the future.

Meanwhile, Arne has crossed the line with 15.2 time. The 20’s not showing on the live scores but we did see it happen.

We’re hearing from Tayla about what a privilege it is to ride Centennial, saying he’s such a kind person. Aw, lovely.

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8:50am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Michael Owen – Monbeg Darwin

Michael Owen’s no rookie with 21 5* starts on his card but Monbeg Darwin is brand new to the level.

Dressage Score: 34.3
Place: 31st

🏸 Form: Making his 5* debut.

“Darwin” was keen on the jog strip on Wednesday, preferring to canter because it’s just more fun. This really is a good looking horse, a real solid type that looks like he’ll be fun on the cross country. He put in a good performance in the dressage phase for his first time in the big atmosphere of a 5*, showing a lot of promise and was very pleased with himself afterwards. Let’s see what he makes of his first big track.

We see Michael go confidently through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab. He really brings the horse back for the KBIS Slalom at 14ab and 15, giving the horse time to see the questions there.

Here’s a look at them:

We’re hearing from Tiana who’s disappointed but says the horse looks good, that she’s proud the horse is even here in the first place and that she’s jumped round Badminton.

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8:45am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇩🇪 Arne Bergendahl – Luthien NRW

Arne Bergendahl and homebred Luthien NRW are back at Badminton for a redemption round. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 38.8
Place: 49th

🏸 Form: 1 start, looking for her first completion.

“Luthien” was super springy at the horse inspection on Wednesday, head up in the air and taking it all in. She is uber fit and showed some of that off when she opted to gallop off toward the cross country course, kicking up dust in her wake. That springiness continued in the dressage ring – this mare is chock-full of power and not the easiest to keep contained on the flat, but Arne knows her so well, with her being a homebred, and rides her incredibly tactfully. She’s ready for today, no doubt about that.

They are flying at the start of their round, through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab flat out and very confident.

He’s held just after the waterfall fence at 11.

Tayla’s also being held on course.

Perhaps the hold is while the pin broken by Tiana is fixed.

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8:42am

OK, we’re back on track.

Tayla’s horse still looks strong as he comes to the end of his round, he’s so bold. She’s crouched low as she comes to the main arena and the finale. Not the best jump over the last but they’re over the last and through the flags. We’re not sure on the time just now due to the hold and there’s a flag question, I’ll update you as I know the deets.

Here’s a look at them having a much better drop into the water at 20 that they had at the MARS Lake:

Arne and Luthien are also back running and going very fast and brave. It’s a bit heart in the mouth at times. They’re super brave over the Vicarage Vee at 25. He comes back nicely for the big step down at 26a but then he’s very quick away and get to the skinny on a half stride and just can’t do it from where Arne asks. They pick up 20 there and come back round to continue on.

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8:40am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇳🇿 Tayla Mason – Centennial

Tayla Mason and homebred Centennial are back for a second go after “Chase” chased the clock last year and put in a speedy clear round. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 36.5
Place: =40th

🏸 Form: 19th last year, he’s also been 8th at Maryland.

There was no wait list this year so Tayla had more time knowing she was definitely going to be at Badminton this time around after a final-second call-up last season. “Chase” showed some nice highlights in the dressage test but doesn’t find his work on the flat easy. No so today though – he is a cross country demon and looks to be very fun across the country. Have a good ride!

Ooo, Tayla has to ride with everything at the Lake at 9a. Voice, elbows, legs, big growls. The horse really backed off there. That’s not the kind of start you want to Badminton but he seems to settle as he goes along.

Sarah Ennis has crossed the line, clear jumping and 3.6 time.

Meanwhile, Tiana goes for an extra stride in the bending line between the two roofed corners at 28ab and the horse drifts, taking the flag. They’ve been given 11 for that flag but it’ll be reviewed. And then a frangible device goes for 9 penalties at 30. She comes into the main arena and over the line. Really disappointing after being in such a great position. Provisional score overall for the two phases for them is 87.4 but there are penalties under review.

Here’s a look at Tiana earlier on in the course:

We’re hearing from an emotional Helen Bates saying that it’s a little girl’s dream to have a horse like Carpe Diem. Warm and fuzzies right there.

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8:35am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇺🇸 Tiana Coudray – Cancaras Girl

British-based US eventer Tiana Coudray and ‘Facebook find’ Cancaras Girl are going for a third Badminton completion. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 28.1
Place: 2nd

🏸 Form: 2 starts, 2 completions, including 25th in 2024.

“Cara” sure looked spicy on the jog strip on Wednesday – she’s one hot lady, that’s for sure. She was super elegant in the dressage phase, really putting out a great showing for the US – so cool to see this gal proving just how good she is on the flat. They were in the lead after the first day and sit in 2nd going into today. You go girls! Now to keep that quality up. Eyes on.

Tiana’s got her game face on at the start of her round. She takes the inside line at Huntsman’s at 6ab and the horse really listened to her. They get a really good jump over the fish at 9a into the Lake and then the distance to the skinny comes up really nicely. They get a smooth turn back to the arrowhead at 10a and then the horse questions the stride for a split second before the b element but trusts Tiana and they make a great job of it. They get a flyer over the waterfall at 11. Very much on their game.

And then there’s huge disappointment as she comes to a stop at the cabin at the LeMieux Village at 18b. The horse just can’t get her legs up after the bounce up the step. A really disappointing 20 for them and a maracas moment for the leaderboard as it’s shook up with them having been in 2nd.

We see Sarah through the water at 20abcd, taking the longer route but very quick with it. Sarah’s good on the clock as she comes through the Hollow at 26abc, and really drives the horse through the line there. She’s headed for home.

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8:30am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇮🇪 Sarah Ennis – Grantstown Jackson

Sarah Ennis and Grantstown Jackson are a speedy combo across the country – hang tight for a leaderboard climb. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 34.5
Place: 32nd

🏸 Form: 2 starts, 2 completions, including 17th place in 2024.

Sarah’s one of the riders picking up an Armada Dish this year for 5 Badminton completions and got off to a great start in the dressage with “Jackson – just one whoopsie near the end, but Sarah used all of her ringcraft to pick up every available mark. He’s a cross country horse through and through, and is ready to thoroughly enjoy himself today. This horse is rapid, and Sarah’s a speedy lady – hang onto your hats as they fly across the country.

Sarah helps her horse find the line through the Lake at 10ab, really determined riding there from her. She’s crouched low and kicking on straight away, not a single second wasted.

We’re hearing from Jonelle who says that the horse is better for the trip. He’s bigger and stronger than she’s used to but she enjoys him. They seem to have overshot the Quarry and had to come back round but she’s not sure if she crossed her tracks. There was time wasted for sure though.

Helen Bates has crossed the line with Carpe Diem. Clear jumping and 9.2 time.

Here’s a look at her over the Vicarage Vee:

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8:25am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Helen Bates – Carpe Diem

Helen Bates is hoping Carpe Diem’s more “Diego” and less “Demon” as they go for a hattrick of Badminton completions. Photo by Laura Dupuy.

Dressage Score: 39.4
Place: 52nd

🏸 Form: 2 starts, 2 completions – 37th and 42nd.

“Diego” sure showed up for the dressage phase, putting his best hoof forward and trying really hard to stay with Helen. He had a little bit of his “Demon” side on his shoulder as the test went along but Helen really knows this horse well and rode him very sympathetically. He’s a fabulous jumper so today is very much more this guy’s speed.

Helen rides positively between the a and b element through the water at the Lake at fence 9. The horse’s ears are pricked and he’s really enjoying his job. They make a neat turn back round to the skinny at 10a and then back into the water for the b element. They look fabulous as they gallop along the side of the lake and over the waterfall at 11 before making the tight turn and heading off towards the Vicarage field. Oh, the farm yard at 22ab is a bit uncomfortable. He stands off the ditch at a, puts in a huge leap, but stays on the line and they make it through clear. That’s partnership for you.

Meanwhile, Jonelle’s horse seems to have settled into the round and they’re looking very much together as they near the end of their round. We see them pop the big rails at Savill’s Keepers at 30abc, taking the two obstacles for the quick route. Jonelle’s having to work hard but there’s no one better on cross country day. They come into the arena and cross the line. The 20 at the Quarry is under review, perhaps a crossing of tracks happened there, I’ll update you when I know more. They complete with 10.8 time.

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8:20am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇳🇿 Jonelle Price – Chilli’s Midnight Star

Jonelle Price is at Badminton with 2015 champ Chilli Morning’s son, Chilli’s Midnight Star. Photo by Atalya Boytner Photography.

Dressage Score: 33.5
Place: =27th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut but was 9th at Maryland last season.

This horse put in a great showing in the dressage, showing off the scope and power that’ll come in handy today. Jonelle’s always superb but she really did stand out in the Badminton Main Arena, riding positively and tactfully and really showing the audience how to get the very best out of a horse that was a little on his toes. Lots to come from this guy in the future, for sure, for now though, let’s watch a master of cross country riding at work.

We see Jonelle circling back to the Quarry at 4ab, looking to have had a problem there. The live scores show her as having picked up a 20, but it seems it’s being reviewed. I’ll update you as I hear more. She continues on though, getting some experience under this young horse’s cinch. He’s very keen and strong coming into the KBIS Slalom at 14ab and 15 but Jonelle keeps him on the line through there. They take the straight route through the water at 20.

“Good boy!” says Sam as they come through the farm yard at 22ab. There’s big pats after the Vicarage Vee at 25 and then it’s all hands and elbows on deck to make the line through the skinny brushes after the big step at 26.

OK, so we’re hearing that Sam has retired. That’s all I know for now, sorry.

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8:15am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Sam Ecroyd – Boleybawn LeCrae

Sam Ecroyd and Boleybawn Lecrae are a speedy pairing with a clear inside the time at Pau – blink and you’ll miss ‘em. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 36.9
Place: 42nd

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut but was 17th at Pau last season.

“Patrick” had a good look round at the horse inspection on Wednesday, making sure everyone was watching him. He really does seem like a huge character of a horse. He was on his best behavior in the dressage phase and got a good rub and scratchies on the neck for his efforts. Good lad. Now it’s time for the fun bit.

We see Sam hail a cab off the Broken Bridge at 13. He’s really riding positively and wasting not a second of time. He’s got the course to himself for the moment. He’s very neat over the T Bar and ditch at 17 and then get a neat shot over the step and bounce at 18ab, the Lemieux Village. They go the quick route through Spillers Sustainability Bay at 20abcd and really look to be having a great spin.

Here’s a look at them making these big fences look easy:

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8:10am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Emma Hyslop-Webb – Jeweetwel

Emma Hyslop-Webb and the quirky character Jeweetwel. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 45.5
Place: 59th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut but has 2 Burghley completions on his card.

“Huey” had his ears and eyes on stalks on the jog strip on Wednesday, taking in all the atmosphere and super hyped up for it. He was pretty tense in the dressage, holding his breath the whole time it seemed, but Emma really rode superbly, keeping things as accurate as possible on a very difficult ride. Let’s hope he can focus on the fences today and not let the excitement get the better of him.

Jeweetwel is very, very keen and strong at the start of his round. Emma’s really got her work cut out for her. They take the flag at the Lake at 9b and then another one at 10a. The control is really tricky. The Broken Bridge at 13 is very scary. Then they shoot on past the KBIS Slalom combination fences at 14 and 15ab and have to come back for it. The red flag comes out and they have to pull up.

Meanwhile, Jesse has completed, carrying those 20 penalties and 7.6 time penalties.

Here’s a look at him at the end:

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8:05am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇳🇿 Jesse Campbell – Cooley Lafitte

Jesse Campbell’s hoping to regain his Badminton debut form with Cooley Lafitte this time around. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 38
Place: =45th

🏸 Form: 15th in 2024, WD after dressage last year.

Fun fact – Jesse’s outfit for the first horse inspection was entirely thrifted and pre-loved, even his shoes. “Henry” was a little wobbly out on the jog strip, clearly sensing the big occasion. We held our breath as he came down the center line for dressage, but Jesse rode incredibly tactfully and the gelding really got to show off some of his best bits. Sure, the walk was a little jiggy joggy, but he went forwards (as opposed to sideways like last year) and Jesse really did give a masterclass in riding a hot horse sympathetically. Today we’ll see a different horse altogether – he’s bold and brave and very, very good at his job.

He gets off to a good start but he’s having to really ride for these big fences. We see him pop through the water at 20abcd really well and look to be having a settled ride together. They make a neat job through the Luckington Lane Corners at 23/4 but then, oh no. The Vicarage Vee doesn’t happen for him. The line’s not there and he jumps to the right of the red flag, just over the ditch, and has to go round for the long route. 20 penalties there for them.

Meanwhile Kylie’s kicking for home. She clears the last and has completed Badminton cross country. Yes, with penalties but a completion nonetheless. 14.4 time penalties.

Here’s a picture of Kylie at the Lake:

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8am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Kylie Roddy – SRS Kan Do

Kylie Roddy’s hoping to put her bad Badminton luck firmly in the rearview with SRS Kan Do this time around. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 32.9
Place: =23rd

🏸 Form: 3 starts, looking for first completion, but has been 5th at Pau.

Kylie says she’s here to enjoy every moment, which is an attitude we can totally get behind. They certainly got off to a sweet start with some nice work on show in the dressage phase, which Kylie was obviously thrilled with. On another note, check out this guy’s massive feet – all the better for galloping with.

Kylie’s having a really fun round, which is great to see. They absolutely fly the Vicarage Vee at 25 and waste not time in galloping on. They’re brave off the big step at 26a but then, oh rats. He just doesn’t lock onto the skinny at b, they don’t get the stride and they pick up 20. She’s very fast to get onto the long route though and kicks on for home.

Arthur is nearing home now. He’s neat through the roofed corners at 28ab and then get a good shot over the parallel rails at 29. They have picked up 11 penalties for a frangible device, not at the water but a couple of fences later at the Vicarage Vee at 25. He crosses the line and is thrilled with his completion. He’s just over the time – 1.6 penalties.

We’re hearing from Lucy speaking to Clare Balding and she says she’s frustrated with those 5 seconds as her horse had the legs on him to go a little quicker.

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7:55am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇫🇷 Arthur Marx – Church’ile

Arthur Marx and homebred Church’ile, whose dam and grand-dam competed with Arthur’s dad. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 39.2
Place: 51st

🏸 Form: 3 starts, 1 completion – 50th last year.

Arthur was showing all kinds of mankle on the jog strip on Wednesday with “Pumba”, another one of this year’s entrants with the same sire as Lordship’s Graffalo. Look out for his amazing tail as he makes his way around. He had it on full display in the dressage, blowing in the breeze while he produced a sweet test for his pal, for which he decided he deserved a good bite of Badminton grass as the end, and making the audience giggle.

We see them go the slightly longer route at Sustainability Bay at 20abcd and get super lucky through there. They hit both the pins, getting very close to the final element. Arthur’s tipped right forward but manages to right himself and gives the horse a very big pat as they gallop on. That was a bit of a heartstopper for them.

Meanwhile Tom and Cowling Hot Gossip haven’t had much screen time, sorry, but they’re showing as having finished on the live scoring, clear jumping with 8 time penalties.

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7:50am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Tom Bird – Cowling Hot Gossip

Tom Bird and the first horse he backed when he was just 15 years old, Cowling Hot Gossip. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Dressage Score: 45.1
Place: 58th

🏸 Form: 39th last year.

“Jasper” was looking for the cross country course as he made his way along the jog strip on Wednesday with a face that seemed to be saying, this bit’s boring – when’s the good bit? And like a kid in the back seat of the car wondering if we’re there yet, he continued his griping in the dressage – when’s the good bit? It’s today, my friend – have at it, buddy.

We catch up with them at the Lake at 9ab and 10ab. They jump through there neatly and look very together. They make nothing of the massive waterfall at 11, the World Horse Welfare Fence.

Lucy’s very bold through the Hollow at 26abc, brave off the big step and then pushing for the distances through the two skinny brushes. They’re coming towards the end of the course now and the horse isn’t getting very high over his fences but he’s so efficient. They come into the arena and jump the last. 5 seconds of time for them but a brilliant round.

We’re hearing from Bubby and she’s thrilled with Cola and proud of the round he gave her. She says he’s a once in a lifetime horse for her, having brought her all the way through from Young Riders.

Here’s a look at Katie, Treworra and their team at the end of their foot perfect round:

She says to be at Badminton is just indescribable.

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7:45am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇮🇪 Lucy Latta – RCA Patron Saint

Lucy Latta and RCA Patron Saint’s round was the quickest of the day in 2024. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 31.9
Place: 18th

🏸 Form: Runner-up in 2024.

Another Grafenstolz entry, like Lordship’s Graffalo, “Paddy” was 2nd on his debut at Badminton. Will he go on to take the top spot too? We’ll have to wait and see. This is a really powerful, strong horse but he’s beautifully produced and looks really rideable, which he showed off in spades in the first phase. A big PB earned big pats and a big cheer from the appreciative crowd. Not a bad way to start your Badminton. Let’s admire this guy’s lovely big ears as he locks on to the flags and hunts his way round.

Lucy’s having a really confident round, really pushing forward for distances and riding with great feel. They’re neat and tidy over the fences but then gallop on really quickly.

Here’s a look at them at 10a, after making the turn there really cleanly:

Cassie’s up at the top of the course and oh no. They have a tumble in the water at 20abcd. The horse just caught a knee at the c element, the frangible device comes down and they end up getting wet. We see both up on their feet and the vet and medic team are there straight away. I’ll update you if we get more info but it all looked to be OK from what we could see.

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7:40am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇺🇸 Cassie Sanger – Redfield Fyre

21-year-old Cassie Sanger is the youngest US competitor to ride at Badminton and is doing so with her own Redfield Fyre. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Dressage Score: 37.5
Place: 43rd

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut but he’s been top 20 at Kentucky and Burghley.

Cassie was channeling the English springtime in a pretty tea dress at the horse inspection on Wednesday. She was back in her breeches for the dressage and really rose to the challenge. It wasn’t always the easiest ride but what was very clear is that this horse is brimming with scope and power, which is very exciting for today.

Cassie gets in close to the skinny arrowhead at 10ab on her way back to the lake but the horse gets his feet up and they make it through there unscathed. They get the bounce stride at the LeMieux Village at 18ab, putting in some nifty footwork to get the job done there.

Katie’s round continues to be super. She absolutely commits at the roofed corner combination at 28ab and they’re looking good on the clock as they near home.

Here’s a look at them over the fish going into the Lake at 9a:

She comes into the main arena with time to spare – CLEAR INSIDE THE TIME!!! 6 seconds inside. What a thrilling round they had.

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7:30am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Katie Magee – Treworra

Hoping to break into the top 10 this year, Katie Magee brings Treworra forward for the horse’s fourth time at the level. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Dressage Score: 33.3
Place: 26th

🏸 Form: 11th last year.

Katie was the best British first-timer last year at Badminton and she’s back for more. Both horse and rider came into the dressage ring meaning business and produced a rhythmical and easy test. This horse has so much power and looked totally ready for today.

Katie’s having a great round, this horse really does look like a fun ride. They get a great shot through the owl hole at 8, the first time getting their feet wet. They’re bold into the lake at 9a and Katie rides bravely to the b element. Really well done there for them. The horse is very keen over the white rails at 12, it’s an unusual plank rail there at the Project Pony Puzzle. They have the course to themself for the time being.

Here’s a picture of Sarah at the end of her round with her talented young homebred Corimiro:

She says to Clare that she was there when her horse was born and had to give him mom a helping hand. She says he’s the reason she’s still doing the sport.

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7:25am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇱🇹 Aistis Vitkauskas – Commander VG

Aistis Vitkauskas wears a hat silk knitted by his grandma when he goes cross country with Commander VG. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 50.5
Place: 61st

🏸 Form: 2 completions, 37th last year, 26th in 2023.

Commander’s tail was swishing the whole way through his dressage test but he managed to keep a lid on the fireworks in the early stages at least. Not so much later on when he made it quite clear what he’d rather be doing. Aistis ended up halting early, incurring error of course penalties, but they made it through, just. Dressage is not this guy’s favorite. Cross country though, that’s a whole other story.

Sadly we catch up with Aistis as he has a problem at the KBIS Slalom at 14 and 15ab. They don’t get the distance and the horse scoots to the side. Aistis puts his hand up. A shame for them.

Sarah’s looking good for the time… It’s been a little heart in mouth in places but SHE’S DONE IT!!! 1 second inside the time, the second clear inside the time at the level for this young horse. Incredible.

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7:20am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Sarah Bullimore – Corimiro

Sarah Bullimore and exciting homebred Corimiro. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 32.1
Place: 19th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut but he was 5th at Pau last season on his first time at the level, where he was clear and well inside the time.

This lovely horse really did have an old head on his young shoulders in the dressage phase, coping admirably with the atmosphere in the Badminton Main Arena. The highlights in the test were as impressive as expected, but some points were dropped when he tried a little too hard. We can’t fault him for that though. Eyes on for a very interesting round.

Sarah’s horse looks confident as he makes his way through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab. We catch back up with her at Sustainability Bay at 20abcd and the horse takes a couple of trot strides before the big rail in the water there. He’s got such a huge stride but makes it work. Clever pony. He drifts a little over the Vicarage Vee at 25, but Sarah’s beautifully balanced and all’s well. He’s super bold off the big step at the Hollow.

Bubby’s a little further down on the clock than we’re used to seeing her. She has to really work to get the stride to the c element at the Hollow at 27 but she’s kicking on toward home now. She seems to have made up some time as she comes into the main arena and they get a great shot over the last. She’s clearly delighted with her pal. Clear jumping and 12 time penalties.

Simon comes into the main arena and over the last. He’s really chuffed with his little horse and rightly so. It wasn’t the easiest round but they’ve got a Badminton cross country completion on their card.

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7:15am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Bubby Upton – Cola

Bubby Upton and long-time bestie Cola. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 29.8
Place: 9th

🏸 Form: Making his 5th Badminton start – he’s been 8th twice, most recently last year.

Cola added a little fertilizer to the Badminton turn at the start of his dressage test, getting things out of his system before the big stuff. He was a little tight at times leaving some work to do today, but still managed to stay sub-30. A quick clear is on the cards for today.

Bubby gets off to a very confident start, classic Bubby crouched low and absolutely going for it. She wastes not a single smidge of a second through Huntsman’s at 6ab. Really smooth and superb through there. She’s very quick through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab and then sees a huge one at the waterfall fence at 11.

Here’s a look at Bubby over the first fence:

Austin’s cross the finish line after really giving his mare a great ride. The flag penalty has been taken away and they’re clear with 28 time penalties.

Simon’s having to work quite hard round the track but Autograf is jumping nicely for him. He finds things a bit tricky at the Luckington Lane Corners and ends up taking a long, long route there, circling round to take the two options rather than 23 and 24 in one go. He’s picked up a flag penalty at 9b also.

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7:10am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Simon Grieve – Autograf

Simon Grieve had a ball at Burghley and Autograf – watch out for his infectious grin as he makes his way round the track with his pal. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 36.4
Place: =38th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut but was 18th at Burghley last season.

We’ve got back-to-back Buster’s on course. This one’s sired by Grafenstolz, like a few others in the field – another is Lordship’s Graffalo. Simon’s got 20 5* starts to his name now and looked every bit the cool dude in his shades on the jog strip on Wednesday, eliciting a big cheer from the crowd. He’s a popular guy and full of love for eventing. If you don’t already, check out his social media where he’s doing great work for our sport. His grin was on show as he turned back onto the center line heading for the halt at the end of his dressage test, with lots of pats for “Buster” who looked very pleased with his efforts. Now onto the best bit.

We haven’t seen a lot of Simon but catch up with him having a bit of a sticky ride between 9a and 9b at the Lake. Simon’s sat way back driving forward and they make it through clear.

Austin’s horse looks to be growing in confidence as she goes round the track. She has a little look in the ditch at the farm yard at 22a but pops over nicely. She’s super at the Vicarage Vee, really brave.

Meanwhile, David and Ferro Point have crossed the line clear jumping with 18.4 time penalties. A lovely round from the little mare.

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7:05am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇮🇪 Austin O’Connor – Sixmilewater

Hoping for the luck of the Irish, Maryland winner Austin O’Connor will traverse the approximately 4 mile course with Sixmilewater. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Dressage Score: 34.8
Place: 34th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut but he was 27th at Burghley last season.

“Buster” was really quite opinionated on the jog strip on Wednesday but Austin managed to convince him that this game’s a team effort. This horse has a huge character but was firmly Team Austin in the dressage ring. Big sigh of relief from Austin at the end of what was a neat test from “Buster”. Great start for them – how will their Badminton continue?

There’s a “Go on Austin!” from the crowd as they come through Huntsman’s at 6ab. Austin has a moment at the Lake at 9ab – he’s in his hunting seat as the horse looks down through the fish into the water. That puts them on a long one to the b element but Austin pushes on and they make it through, doing a really good job at 10ab and putting the slight scare behind them. They’ve been give a flag at 9b. He opts for the slightly longer route at the second water at 20abcd, which seemed like a smart choice given what happened at the Lake.

David is committed at the Vicarage Vee at 25, really super stylish through there.

Here’s a look at him coming off the Broken Bridge at 13:

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7am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 David Doel – Ferro Point

Fresh off a flight from Kentucky, where he came 3rd, David Doel brings long time gal pal Ferro Point forward for her first Badminton. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 41.9
Place: 57th

🏸 Form: Making her Badminton debut but she’s been top 20 at Pau.

This long-term partnership was totally on show in their dressage test, with “Ferro” trying really hard, ears on David and doing her best. It was a test of two halves though with her eventually showing that she’s not the easiest on the flat and David leaving us in no doubt about just how skillful he is in the saddle. “Go on!” David says to the mare as they make their way through the Slalom at 14ab and 15. The horse has quite a short stride and had to push for the distance there.

David is quick through Huntsman’s Close at 6ab.

We’re seeing something going on with Gemma before the Vicarage Vee. She’s pulled up. She’s devastated. She gives him a big hug. She hasn’t got off though, so there doesn’t seem to be a problem with the horse. Tina Cook in the commentary box wonders if he’s lost a shoe. That’s such a shame for them. She was flying and really going for it but sadly, that’s eventing sometimes.

Here’s a look at them earlier in the course at the Lake:

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6:55am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Gemma Stevens – Chilli Knight

Speedy duo Gemma Stevens and Chilli Knight are looking for redemption and a podium placing. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 34
Place: 30th

🏸 Form: 14th and 15th in 2024 and 2025 – he was clear inside the time on cross country day last year and sat on the podium overnight.

“Alfie” was a total pro at the horse inspection on Wednesday, he knows this game. He was very relaxed in his work in the first part of his dressage test, so much so he rested a hind in the halt. But a tricky moment halfway through was expensive when he threw up some fancy footwork that’ll be more useful today than it was during his test. She said afterwards that not a single one of those mistakes has happened during training and that the score is 5 marks outside where she’d hoped to be. A disappointing start but the opportunity to set things straight today.

Gemma is super quick through Huntsman’s at 6ab, wow, she’s up for this! She balances the horse going into the Lake at 9ab, making sure he’s able to get a great shot through there. She brings him right back for the KBIS Slalom at 14ab and 15, that’s a fence where you really do need to take some care.

Meanwhile, Holly is still going nicely with Ballyneety Silver Service. We see them through the roofed corners at 28ab and they pop thorough there making very little of that big question. They’re headed for home now. They have been s-p-e-e-d-y! CLEAR AND 12 SECONDS INSIDE THE TIME!!! What a round. She didn’t take a pull, the horse jumped and jumped and she is absolutely thrilled. The horse looks fabulous after that too. So great to see.

Here’s a look at Cosby flying through the finish line:

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6:50am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Holly Richardson – Ballyneety Silver Service

Holly Richardson’s hoping to serve up a classy round with Ballyneety Silver Service. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Dressage Score: 41.2
Place: 55th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut but he was 14th at Burghley last year.

This striking white horse is appropriately named “Butler” in the barn. He saw a ghostie on the jog strip on Wednesday, but perhaps it was just a reflection of his gleaming white tail. Props to all the grooms, seriously, but especially the ones who have to scrub those white tails, we salute you. “Butler” was a little opinionated at times in the dressage phase, a guy with his own mind, clearly. Perhaps he’d spotted the cross country finale fence alongside the arena and fancied getting straight to the good bit. It’s today, buddy – have at it.

Holly makes a confident start and is really good through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab – that combination is really riding well and coming up clear for the horses. They are quick and look to be totally on the same page and having a great round so far.

Oh no, we catch up with Caroline as she takes a tumble very late on course, at the roofed corner combination at 28ab. The horse just caught a knee on the way up and twisted, chucking Caroline out the side door. The horse gallops off towards the finish flags and we see Caroline up on her feet righting her hat silk.

We’re hearing from Harry who says it rode as it walked. He says he went out with a mean business kind of attitude and it sure showed.

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6:45am

NEW COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇳🇿 Caroline Powell – High Time

Caroline Powell’s hoping for a great time out on track today with High Time. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 38
Place: 45th

🏸 Form: 21st last year but Caroline’s a Badminton and Burghley winner.

“Henry” was a little on his toes in the dressage phase and Caroline gave a masterclass on managing a horse with a lot in the tank. He was very much ready for today. Let’s watch him let loose.

Caroline’s very confident through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab, so far the horses have read those questions and managed the turn really well. She sees an absolute flyer at the waterfall fence at 11. She’s got her pedal to the metal, for sure. She’s very smooth through Sustainability Bay at 20abcd. They’re in a really great rhythm everywhere, with the horse jumping out of his stride and really rideable so there’s no time wasted in setting him up.

Tom’s really good through the corner combination at 28ab and then says, “C’mon!” to United 36 as he gallops along towards home. He’s relatively good on the clock, quicker than Harry at this point. Where will he land? He’s encouraging the horse all the way. They come into the arena and over the MARS M. There’s massive cheers. Just 8 seconds over the time on a rookie horse, what an exciting horse this is. He’s pointing to the horse. A superb round for them.

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6:40am

THIRD COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Tom Jackson – United 36

Tom Jackson’s got two chances – the first of them is 10-year-old United 36. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl In The Field.

Dressage Score: 32.2
Place: 20th

🏸 Form: Making his 5* debut but Tom’s had two 5th place finishes.

“Ted” was looky looky on the jog strip on Wednesday and showed off some lovely lateral work. He had his mind firmly on the job in the dressage ring though, showing all the scope and power he’ll need today and looking very pleased with himself after he was done. This is a really good looking horse and I’m excited to watch how he takes to his first 5* track.

Tom and “Ted” are very neat and confident through the Lake at 9ab and 10ab – the horse looks really happy and brave on his first time at the level. He’s jumping really nicely and looks to be totally with Tom. They’re quick through the LeMieux Village at 18ab taking the big step up and then the cabin on the mound in their stride.

Cosby’s having a great round, making these big fences look like child’s play. She’s very neat over the Vicarage Vee at 25ab, taking the straight route, so the rails and ditch in one. Woah, she’s brave through the Hollow at 26abc, really fast off the huge step and then taking a stride out to the skinny brush at b and c. She brings the horse back for the roofed corners at 8ab and is nearing home now. She crosses the line and punches the air. Clear and a great ride for them with 13.6 time.

Here’s a look at Harry waving to the crowd:

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6:35am

SECOND COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇺🇸 Cosby Green – Jos Ufo de Quidam

First up for the US, Cosby Green and Jos UFO de Quidam. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 34.9
Place: 35th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut but he’s been 8th at Luhmühlen.

Argentinian-bred “UFO” sure showed that he knows his job on the jog strip on Wednesday, taking all the Badminton atmosphere in his stride. That pro approach continued into the dressage ring, from both horse and rider, with Cosby all smiles and looking very relaxed and enjoying the moment.

We see Cosby looking very bold at the start of her round. We catch back up with her as she comes to the Lake at 9an and 10ab and she’s really neat through the first part, making the turn to 10 smoothly and finding no problems at all with the first water. Cosby chooses the slightly slower route at Sustainability Bay at 20abcd but doesn’t waste much time. She kicks on.

Harry comes through the Spillers Sustainability Bay at 20abcd and angled the rails there to make the stride come up for him. No time wasted at the INEOS Sunken Road 21ab for Harry and Hoppy and then they take the left hand option at the farm yard combination at 22ab. Harry’s flapping his arms, totally committed to the Vicarage Vee at 25ab, taking the straight route which incorporates both the a and b element in one. He’s on the way home now. Harry takes a very efficient curving line through the Rathbones Curve roofed corners at 28ab. Not far to go now and he’s had an absolute peach of a ride so far. He chooses the direct route at the Savills Keeper Rails at 30abc, picking the big fences but one less jumping effort than the long route. The crowd go wild as they come into the main arena. What a round. Clear all the way, 11 time penalties. He waves to the crowd. A fabulous start to the day.

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6:30am

FIRST COMBINATION OUT ON COURSE: 🇬🇧 Harry Meade – Et Hop Du Matz

Harry Meade’s here with a herd of three – he’s trailblazing with Et Hop du Matz. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dressage Score: 36.5
Place: =40th

🏸 Form: Making his Badminton debut (Et Hop du Matz, not Harry, who’s got multiple Badminton completions on his card) but he’s been 3rd at Kentucky.

“Hoppy” was very hoppy on the jog strip on Wednesday, right up on his toes and ready for it. Sadly World No. 1, Harry wasn’t sporting his trademark fancy pants, going for a scholarly gray look instead. The horse wasn’t as soft as we’ve seen him in the dressage phase and was a little wobbly at times, explained by Harry trying out a new set up in his bridle which didn’t quite work. Back to what he knows and loves today – fast clears across the country. Fun fact: Harry practically lives next door to Badminton.

2026 Badminton cross country is underway to the roar of the crowd!

“Hoppy” is well up for this, he stormed out of the start box looking very keen. They’ve very neat through the Quarry at 4, the first combination on course, and kick on very quickly away from there in a great rhythm. Harry’s such a great trailblazer for the rest of the riders, he sprinkles pressure on his breakfast cereal this guy.

They come under the new Huntsman’s arch and are very quick through the combinations there at 6AB, not a single second wasted. They gallop down the hill and come into the water for the first time to jump the owl hole in the water at 8. They get the big drop over the fish into the MARS Lake at 9a and then the b element comes up nicely for them. They make the tricky turn back to the water for 10a and then kick on over the brush in the water for b. Off he gallops, over the World Horse Waterfall fence at 11 and then the sharp turn towards the Vicarage field.

The Broken Bridge at 13 doesn’t slow them down and then the difficult line through the KBIS Slalom at 14ab is made to look really simple, and it’s not.

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6:25am

While we wait for starter’s orders, enjoy a look at my kitten watching the dressage phase:

This is your 5 minute warning – it’s almost go time!

MARS Badminton CCI5*: [Website] [Tickets] [Entries] [Schedule] [Live Stream] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

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Saturday Links

By on May 9, 2026 12:01 am -

One Big Thing: Saturday at MARS Badminton

Gemma Stevens’ sentiments are spot on for anyone walking a CCI5* cross country track, and we’re putting our positive vibe hats on today for a safe and successful day of cross country at MARS Badminton! By the time you’re reading this, there’s a good chance cross country will already be underway, and you can head back over to the EN homepage for the commencement of our traditional live blog helmed by Cheg Darlington.

Otherwise on the docket for today include the famous Shetland Pony Grand National, which will properly kick off the festivities at 10:30 am in the Main Arena just before cross country. If you’re still catching up from the dressage action, below are a few links to help you out:

And here are a collection of other stories from around the equestrian media space:

Major International Events This Weekend

MARS Badminton CCI5* (England):Website] [Tickets] [Live Stream] [Entries] [Schedule] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

Tryon International Three-Day Event (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Schedule] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer]

Sopot Spring Carnival CCI4*-L/S (Poland): [Website] [Entries] [Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps]

U.S. Events This Weekend

The Vista Spring YEH/NEH Qualifier (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring]

Galway Downs Sprint H.T. & Preliminary Challenge (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]

Hitching Post Farm H.T. (SC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Maps]

Unionville May H.T. (PA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps]

Queeny Park H.T. (MO): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Maps]

Other Links & Reading

Training Tip of the Day

We’re taking today’s training tip from one Mr. William Fox-Pitt, who believes the MARS Sustainability Bay — busier than typical this year — might be the most influential question on cross country at Badminton today. Find out why:

Go Eventing

Ponies like Walter (Lordships Graffalo) deserve all the smooches:

“It’s Quite Scary, But I’d Be a Bit Disappointed If It Wasn’t”: Riders React to MARS Badminton Cross Country

By on May 8, 2026 6:24 pm -

The ClipMyHorse Cord Piles are particularly big at max height and spread. Photo via CrossCountry App.

Simply put, Eric Winters’ course this year is “BIG”. Or as Will Rawlin so eloquently put it, “It’s bloody huge!”. But you don’t go to Badminton to jump cavalettis and a recurring thread throughout the riders’ responses to the test ahead of them is that it’s totally fair – clear for the riders and, most importantly, the horses.

“Evil Eric” – according to Sam Watson – has not made an appearance this time around, although he has been kinda ditchy.

But there’s no trickery around the track, and so long as the riders do a good job, the horses should read the questions and respond accordingly.

Initial thoughts from most of the riders were reassuring: “It’s Badminton,” they declared. Good to know.

All this, and more below:

▶️ Take a look at the track the riders are talking about with Tilly’s Course Preview and see each fence up close and personal, along with explanations from course designer Eric Winter, by clicking here.

MARS Badminton CCI5*: [Website] [Tickets] [Entries] [Schedule] [Live Stream] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

🇬🇧 Ros Canter – Lordship’s Graffalo – 1st

History-makers? Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“It’s definitely big. There’s plenty to jump.”

“The first time I walk it, it’s so often the case with me, I walk it and think, oh this is absolutely fine. But then I walked it again yesterday and thought, no, absolutely not.

Leader in the clubhouse Ros is thinking of the bigger picture:

I think the more you walk it, the more you start to relate to actually jumping it, and then you start to go, well actually, that has a knock on effect on that, that has a knock on effect, and the terrain here and the terrain there – suddenly it becomes a whole new question.”

🇺🇸 Tiana Coudray – Cancaras Girl – 2nd

Still making her mind up. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“I always first time around think, oh yeah, that’s fine, we can do this.”

Second-placed Tiana’s talking herself into – and out of – it:

“The more times I walk it, I go, oh yeah, but this could happen, and that could happen. I’ve only had one walk so I’m still in the phase of thinking, yeah, it’s completely jumpable – that will progressively diminish over the next two days!”

🇧🇪 Lara de Liedekerke-Meier – Hooney d’Arville – 3rd

Up for it. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Lara’s in a great spot in third place going into the cross country and is ready to give it a good crack:

“I’m looking forward to the challenge – that’s what we all came for.”

“I like the flow. I think that going is fast, which we have to handle in a way that we shouldn’t go too fast from the beginning and empty the tank. I think we all have to ride our horses.

It’s hard to wait so long in the day and take the info you need, but not the info you don’t so.

I think there’s a lot to jump, I feel more about the accumulation factor than one fence in particular. Like a lot have said, the Vicarage field [which starts at fence 16 and ends with the iconic fence at 25AB], it’s quite intense, so you want to be on time there, but you shouldn’t try to catch up [while you’re in the thick of it].

I’m happy with the conditions and the weather is good and I’m off to a good start – so let’s go now.”

🇧🇷 Marcio Carvalho Jorge – Royal Encounter – 6th

Stepping into the unknown. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

“I think it’s such a nice course – big as always.”

Marcio’s waiting to see:

“But the course is not one or two jumps, it’s all together to answer the question. I hope my horse will be okay with that and happy. Let’s see. It’s his first five-star, so let’s see what’s happens.

🇬🇧 Will Rawlin – Ballycoog Breaker Boy – 7th

If this tall guy thinks it’s big, then it’s big. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Not just big for Will:

“It’s bloody huge!”

“Big, big fences. I definitely think I prefer this way [round], having done both ways now. I just feel it gets you in the rhythm, gets you in the flow better, and it seems to be really inviting, really nice. Everything’s there for the horses to jump. Yeah, looking forward to getting out there.”

🇬🇧 Bubby Upton – Cola – 9th

Opting for “massive” over the more popular “big”. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Bubby’s not underestimating the challenge:

“Of course it’s massive and of course it’s really difficult.”

“It’s super intense. I actually prefer this way round and I think for my horse it will be a nicer way around for him. I felt last year when we got through the Quarry that he had done a huge effort up to there, and then it was like, oh my god, we still got so much left to do. Eric [Winter] is one of the best there is, and it’s going to be a huge test for us all, for sure.”

🇬🇧 Harry Meade – Annaghmore Valoner – =11th – Cavalier Crystal – 33rd – Et Hop du Matz =40th

Happy with the track. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Harry’s taking the thoughtful approach:

“I thought it was interesting.”

“The route is slightly different. It’s very easy to think geographically it covers the same ground, but actually for the flow of the horses, the intensity and the and the breathing gaps are slightly different, particularly where you where you jump the Broken Bridge [Fence 13] to the three brush fences [the KBIS Slalom at 14AB and 15]; you’ve then got a bit of a breather from there. Then the foot bridge [Waypoint] and then a long breather from there up to the INEOS fence [21AB, the INEOS Sunken Road]. I think there’s lots of questions but nothing that I thought was overly problematic.

I think it’s a good Badminton course. It’s presented beautifully. He’s [Eric Winter] done a great job with both the design and the flow of it. Would there be many five-star questions out there? Maybe not. But the cumulative effect make it a five-star course.

Often when you walk a course there’s normally, the first time you walk it, there’s sort of five questions where you think – head scratcher, I’m going to have to work that out on the next course walk, and you narrow it down from five, to three, to two. And then when you’re going out you still have questions. Whereas I’d say this was very much in front of them. I don’t think there’s any real head scratchers. There’s a massive asterisk on that – it doesn’t mean it’s going to be easy, it doesn’t mean there’s going to be loads and loads of clears, but there’s a fine line between what’s a four-star fence and what’s a five-star fence and sometimes there’s something a little bit unorthodox which you can’t make a plan for and you have to use the feel of what happens as you jump the A element. I wouldn’t have said there’s many of those.

I think overall he’s designed a very fair, horse-friendly galloping track and it should ride really well.”

🇬🇧 Emily King – Valmy Biats – =11th

No trickery involved. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“It’s amazing!”

“They’ve done a brilliant job out there, I think, a very clever job in that they’re not tricking the horses anywhere – if we ride it good and they want to jump it, it should go smoothly. It’s not a question that you think, how on earth can the horse do this? He’s [Eric Winter] being very clever with the corners, with everything, the angles. But if they want to jump it, they should jump it. It’s just up to us to do a good job.

Emily’s happy to have a little help from her friends:

Sammy [Emily’s partner and fellow Badminton competitor, Sam Ecroyd] always comes to the big ones and helps me with everything, but especially the cross country. So he’s got his work cut out, because he has to train me and then do his own thing – I’m like, Sam, I take priority! We’ll walk it lots and speak through the course with as many riders and trainers as possible, just getting their take on it. Sammy goes out pretty early on tomorrow, so hopefully, he can give it a good suss out.”

🇨🇭 Nadja Minder – Toblerone – =11th

Nothing like an old buddy at a 5*. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Nadja’s been ready since she was dreaming of her Badminton debut as a kid:

“Let’s go!”

“The course looks great. He [Toblerone] is super fit and we know each other inside out.”

🇬🇧 Fiona Kashel – Creevagh Silver de Haar – 14th

Planning to hang on tight. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Fiona is that rarest of eventers:

“Cross country is not my favorite.”

“I quite like it where there’s not that many decisions for me to make, so when four strides has to be four strides. It’s when it’s a five or six or a four, that’s when I go into meltdown, because I just like to hang on and add everywhere – hence why I’m normally about a minute [over the] time.

I just get really nervous. I don’t actually mind jumping the big fences, that doesn’t bother me. It’s the silly whoopsies. I get really nervous to have a silly mistake, especially when you’re close to home and everyone’s come to watch you. It’s just, it’s just those silly little one – the if I miss ones, if I miss a flag ones, if I fall off!

I’m here with my good friend [and fellow competitor] Kylie Roddy. We buddy up at these events, and I hijacked her course walk with Andrew Nicholson, so I’ve got two thirds of Andrew’s thoughts on the course, I just need to get the first third and get a real plan in place.”

🇮🇪 Georgie Goss – Feloupe – =15th

She’s done the math. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“80% of it looks really nice and the other 20% looks really horrible!”

Georgie’s hoping familiarity will bring some comfort:

“I think the Vicarage line [23/24 and 25AB] is always a rider frightener, but that ditch they’ve got to the rail [Mike Weaver’s Farm Yard at 22AB] – I did that couple years ago when it was a ditch to the log and it never rode that well, so that will kind of be my sort of bogey fence. But hopefully the more I walk it, the smaller it’ll get.”

🇬🇧 Max Warburton – Deerpairc Revelry – 17th

Happy guy. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

“I’m happy with it.”

Max’s feeling confident in his horse:

“I think it’s everything’s in front of you to jump. He’s [Deerpairc Revelry] a fast horse. He’s another year older, he’s got a few under his belt now, so hopefully we can make use of that.”

🇬🇧 Tom Jackson – United 36 =20th – Hawk Eye – 29th

Tom knows where he’s at:

“It looks like Badminton.”

“It’s big everywhere. I’d say it’s maybe not the most technical Badminton I’ve ever walked, but there’s definitely plenty to do, and it’s fairly relentless in question after question – so that always takes its toll, especially with the younger horses.”

How’s the ground?

“Not as quick as I thought it might be, actually. Even when they had the Grassroots yesterday they had a decent cut, so hopefully, if it stays like that, then it should be near enough perfect come Saturday.”

🇬🇧 Tom Rowland – Dreamliner – =20th

A straight up kinda guy. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

“We’ll give it our best go, and I’m excited.”

Tom’s in a bit of a tizz about the turns:

I feel very lucky that he’s [Dreamliner] jumped around that direction once before. There’s a few twisty bits that won’t necessarily suit him, like turning back in at the Lake [to 10A]. He’s great on a straight line. The KBIS brushes [the Slalom fences at 14AB and 15], if they were off a straight approach, it’d be really easy, but off that tight turn – there’s a couple of places which don’t really suit him, the ditches and all that do though.”

🇨🇳 Alex Hua Tian – Chicko – 22nd

Happy there’s ‘baby’ steps working along to the mighty Vee. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“It’s just big.”

Alex is feeling ditchy:

“It’s a nice track. Obviously the Vicarage Vee [25AB] is in there. I’ve jumped it once, on Harbour Pilot in 2016 – always intimidating. But I think Eric’s been quite kind in that he’s given us quite a few chances to jump across the ditch in a similar kind of way before [they jump the ditch five times in total, culminating in the Vicarage Vee fence itself]. The bank [at Mayston Equestrian Hollow, fence 26ABC] is massive.”

🇬🇧 Kylie Roddy – SRS Kan Do – =23rd

Pony Club. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“We never like to say we like what’s out there, don’t we?!”

Kylie’s in the flow:

“It looks like it might have a bit more flow. I think it looks a bit more horse friendly. It looks like the horses can see what they’re about to jump – sometimes it can be a bit blind and a bit bouncy off the trees and stuff, whereas I think he’s [Eric Winter] found better flow for the ponies.”

🇬🇧 Daisy Berkeley – Diese du Figuier – =23rd

Thoughts of the finish flags. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Daisy’s here with a rookie horse – will it suit him?

“I certainly hope so – I’ll find out tomorrow!”

“I think tomorrow morning I’ll be wishing I was sitting in the commentary box!

If you’ve been around here, when you have a good ride, there is no feeling like it and coming through that finish – that is what I want from me and the horse, to have a lovely ride and get through that finish.”

🇬🇧 Laura Collett – Bling – =27th

Superstitious. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Laura thinks the track’ll suit Bling:

“Touch wood.”

“She’s a big jumping horse and there’s a lot of big fences out there. So I’m very happy with what I’m sat on.”

There’s a bit of rain forecast but that’s not worrying Laura.

“They’ve done an amazing job on the ground. It was walking really well. Any rain would go in and be a positive, but if we don’t get any, then it’s still good ground.”

🇬🇧 Gemma Stevens – Chilli Knight – 30th

That’s right, five times over the Vicarage ditch. Photo by Nico Morgan Media.

Gemma says it simply:

“Big jumps.”

“Really big, bold fences – a proper old fashioned Badminton. Great distances. I think it’s a really fair course. He’s [Eric Winter] set fantastic distances, which I really like – I like it when they don’t try and trick you. You’ve got to be on your A game from number 1 to very last fence – there’s not really a let up anywhere. The Vicarage ditch area, I mean, he’s making us jump that ditch five times! I feel like that’s quite mean, it’s scary enough just once!

It’s going to be that typical five-star cumulative effect of the whole round, I don’t think you can pick out one particular fence. I think it’s a typical Badminton where it’s non-stop the whole way – big jump after big jump. I think us as riders, we’ve got to be accurate, we’ve got to look after our horses, and we’ve got to balance them and make sure they’re confident.

The time will be tight. The Lake [9AB and 10AB] is so slow and round the Vicarage area [which starts at fence 16 and ends with the iconic fence at 25AB], you’re constantly being asked to change direction, go uphill, go downhill. [Right round the course] we’re asked to speed up and slow down a lot.

We’ve just got to get out there and get on with it.”

🇬🇧 Michael Owen – Monbeg Darwin – 31st

Not big enough. Photo by Eventing Nation.

Michael’s bucking the trend:

“There’s nothing out there that I think, well, that’s big.”

“He’s [Monbeg Darwin] a big scopey horse – almost the bigger, the better for him.”

🇺🇸 Cosby Green – Jos Ufo de Quidam – 35th

No fear here. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“I’m very excited!”

Like a lot of the horses, Cosby’s keen to get the dressage done so she can get stuck into the best bit:

“I’m as positive as you can be. I have a lot of faith in my horse, he’s an amazing cross country horse, so I’m really excited to get [dressage] out of the way and go and give the track a go.”

🇬🇧 David Doel – Ferro Point – 57th – Midnight Rollercoaster – 37th

Bloomin’ “big” smoochies for David from Ferro Point. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

David’s dropping the ‘B’ bomb:

“It’s definitely big out there.”

“I think it’s one of the fairest tracks Eric’s [Winter] built for a little while here. I think the fences are just a little bit clearer for the horses. Don’t get me wrong, it’s big. But I think the combinations just come up a little bit more clearly for the horses, there aren’t quite so many blind turns like he’s had in the last few years, which I think should ride a bit nicer and be a bit fairer to the horses – but as I say, it’s still bloody big!”

🇬🇧 Simon Grieve – Autograf – =38th

Arguably the smiliest guy in the sport. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Simon’s up for the scare factor:

“It’s Badminton – it’s big and it’s bold and it’s quite scary, but I’d be a bit disappointed if it wasn’t.”

“I think the Lake [9AB and 10AB] is is pretty serious. I just can’t ever get away from the Viquid Vee [25AB], yeah, and the water at the top as well [Spillers Sustainability Bay at 20ABCD] is very technical.

It’s all the way around, and it’s one big fence after another, and a difficult fence after another, it makes it such a challenge. I’m looking forward to it!”

🇫🇷 Gaspard Maksud – Zaragoza – =38th

Wearing his cock on his chest. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Gaspard’s looking for a leaderboard climb with his zoomy mare:

“It won’t be a dressage competition – thank god for that!”

“Yeah, it’s a good track. I think it’s tough enough. Today [the dressage phase] is just one thing, tomorrow is another day, so I’m looking forward to tomorrow.”

🇬🇧 Sam Ecroyd – Boleybawn Lecrae – 42nd

A man who gets straight to the point. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Sam’s stating the somewhat obvious:

“It’s Badminton.”

“Looks really good, I thought. Really, really well built, really fair, pretty massive.”

🇳🇿 Jesse Campbell – Cooley Lafitte – =45th

Smooth ride. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Jesse’s up for it:

“I’m quite excited about riding it.”

“It’s just very big and in front of you and there to be jumped. I’m not sure what the time will be like – it feels a bit smoother than in past years.”

🇮🇪 Padraig McCarthy – Lady Ophelia – 47th

Feeling bold. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Padraig’s switching out the B words:

“Looks brilliant.”

“I think it’s a good bold track. It looks like the fences are really there in front of you this year. I think if your horse is brave and doesn’t worry about ditches and has got a bit of experience, you should have a good ride around the ground. I’m very excited to get out there.”

🇬🇧 Tom Strawson – Public Address – 48th

Fun times. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Tom’s abbreviated course preview:

“There’s plenty to jump. Looks very ditchy, good corners.”

“There’s lots of jump – there’s a very intense part in the middle. I’m right at the end, so I get to watch and see how the others do at first, which I don’t know whether it’s a good thing or a bad thing – you might end up getting a load of nerves! Hopefully we’ll take some confidence from Burley and go out there and lots of fun.

🇩🇪 Arne Bergendahl – Luthien NRW – 49th

Appreciating the beauty. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“I’m really looking forward to it.”

Arne’s got what it takes:

“I think it’s a beautiful course. It’s really big questions. I think you need a lot of scope and brave.”

Has he got that with Luthien NRW?

“Hopefully!”

🇬🇧 Alex Bragg – Quindiva – 50th

Anticipating reward. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“I’m relishing the challenge.”

Alex has high praise for course designer Eric Winter and his team:

“The course looks good. I think the last couple of years, actually, Eric [Winter] has done a wonderful job. I think the courses are easier for the horses to read and if you ride well and keep them in balance, and you’ve got them well trained, you should be rewarded with a really smooth ride that brings confidence to them. I think this course should offer that, so I think he’s done an amazing job. The ground looks fantastic, testament to the organisers and the team that they’re working with.”

🇬🇧 Helen Bates – Carpe Diem – 52nd

The look of love. Photo by Laura Dupuy.

Helen has eyes for no other:

“I’m excited – there’s no other horse I’d rather be sat on.”

“It’s definitely quite intense down at that Vicarage area [between fences 16 and 25 the riders cross the Vicarage ditch five times]. I don’t think there’s any let up at all this year, from when you come down to the wiggly ones [the KBIS Slalom at 14AB and 15], and then I think you’ve got to be very much on it for a good few minutes after that.”

🇮🇪 Sam Watson – Ballyneety Rocketman – 53rd

Rocketman Sam gives a speech. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“It’s not an evil Eric track.”

Irish horses are known to enjoy the deep going, and Sam’s keen for more rain to give his enthusiastic horse an advantage:

“I’ve done a very powerful rain dance, so there’ll be more rain. You’ve got to just believe in it – it’s going to happen.

Fair play to Badminton, they presented a really nice course to us on Wednesday with the ground. I know there’s an unsettled forecast so you’ve just got to keep on top of it as well, like now, it is drying fast. But we were talking to him [Eric Winter] last night, they’ll aerate it if they have to aerate, if the rain comes then it’s fine.

For me, with him, the difficulty is that is what I have underneath me, and it’s that communication. He doesn’t mind the obstacles. He’s very brave. He’s very straight. It’s just about communication.

I think Ross Canter could make it look very simple.

Eric’s made it obvious to us, and now that could catch [people out]. I don’t believe in complacency – no one leaves the start box at Badminton complacent. It’s still big. You still got to jump all those fences. They’re big. Hard to see too many run outs and things like that, so we’ll see what happens.

Hopefully the beast is a bit more tamed than he’s been in the past [Ballyneety Rocketman is notoriously strong]. But he’s a working project, he’s still only 12. It’s his third big five-star, he’s got Badminton and Burghley under his belt, so hopefully, he’ll be a little bit more mature in himself afterwards.

And are there places where he can allow “Rocket” to run off some steam?

No, not really. He’ll be difficult coming down from Huntington’s Close [at 6AB], going downhill, it puts him off balance. I think anyone galloping those Thoroughbreds, it is all about balance – that’s what cross country is. That’ll be difficult enough, but then the Lake [9AB and 10AB] sets him up. Eric has placed his fences quite nicely. Then there’s a long run down to the fly fence [the World Horse Welfare Waterfall at 11]. I’ll just have to soften my hands and let him lengthen his frame. He will be flying going down there. But then there’s a turn at the bottom [soon after the fence].

It was very technical [last year]. This is the opposite – this is big, imposing, all those Vicarage jumps [running from 16 to 25AB], it’s very, very imposing. But it’s straight in front of you. I can see him growing up out there, and respecting it and us both enjoying it.”

🇬🇧 Emma Thomas – Icarus – 60th

Flying high. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

“I think if you get stuck in, it will reward you.”

Emma’s got a plan:

“I think I’m going to go long at Huntsman’s [6AB] because I don’t think he’ll be quite settled by then. But otherwise, I think it’s a really horse-friendly, inviting track.”

So there you have it, straight from the horse’s mouth, so to speak.

Go eventing!

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Connor Take Phase One Lead in Tryon International CCI4*-L

By on May 8, 2026 6:08 pm -

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Connor. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Caroline Pamucku has one primary goal on her mind this weekend at the Tryon International CCI4*-L, where she’s here to contest HSH Connor’s first run at this Long level.

Incidentally, this weekend marks the first official qualifier for the 2027 Pan American Games, which will take place next July 23-August 8 in Lima, Peru (also the site of the 2019 Pan Ams). You can view the full qualification guidelines for Pam Ams, which are run at the 3*-L level, here. With this in mind, she’s got her eyes set on ticking off that qualification here this weekend, giving her something to build on over the next 12 months with the 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Caroline, her mother Sherrie and longtime supporter Luann McElduff.

That goal comes a step closer after the first phase of competition, which saw Caroline and HSH Connor score a 26.4 to go into the lead ahead of Saturday’s cross country. That score, however, is one Caroline’s eager to get down over time, because she knows the caliber of scores that will be required to win on an even more international stage.

“I’ve gotta figure out how to get in the 21s like those Europeans!” Caroline said. “So I forward the videos to my dressage trainers because I’m on a 26? And there will be some people at Worlds on like an 18 or 19 — so how do I get down to there? I felt I put in a good test, but it’s about ‘how do I get on an 18’? So it’s at least on my brain right now — how do I break it down and do even better? I feel like I crushed it, but it’s not quite good enough for the world stage.”

Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Connor. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

To that end, Caroline and her team will typically forward videos of her tests to her coaching group, primarily helmed by dressage coach Samantha St. Jacques as well as fellow 5* rider and Pan Ams teammate from 2023 Sharon White. Along with the videos, Caroline will snap photos of her test copies with the judges’ comments so that they can study the marks and where she could earn a few more the next time out.

“This same test Blake did at Carolina,” Caroline said. “And obviously he and Connor are different horses, but it’s still the same pattern, right? So I need to figure it out — I know there’s somewhere I’m giving points away. Maybe not going straight enough sooner after the shoulder-in on the centerline — that’s the sort of thing we need to a little bit analyze before Worlds.”

For his part HSH Connor has had a supremely successful international career to date: he’s won nearly half of the 20 competitions he’s started at FEI levels, and though this will be his first 4*-L, Caroline feels the development she’s put in so far should set her up well to test the gelding’s mettle on cross country tomorrow, though earning the qualification — which doesn’t need to be a clear inside the time — is her top priority.

“I need to get qualified for Pan Ams,” she said. “I want to give him a good experience because I think he can win a medal. He’s got the makings of a medal-winning championship horse. So I would love to just give him a good ride.”

Phillip Dutton and Denim. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Caroline may see some threat on the clock tomorrow from second-placed Phillip Dutton, who chose this weekend as Denim’s spring destination. Denim, an 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding owned by Ann Lapides, Neill Sites, Annie Jones and Caroline Moran, scored a 29.2 for an effort that made Phillip “happy — not ecstatic, but happy” overall. He’s got the World Championships on the brain as well, with two strong contenders for a spot on the U.S. squad in Possante (8th at Kentucky two weeks ago) as well as Denim.

Phillip’s taken a slightly longer road with Denim, who he describes as an eager partner but slower to mature and not the fastest at his top cruising speed. For him, it’s less about creating more speed tomorrow and more about riding efficiently. Smooth is fast, even when you’re not on the fastest horse in the field.

“I’m going to have to be pretty astute about not wasting time and having pretty efficient lines and that kind of thing,” Phillip said. “But you know, he’s a great, great jumping horse. It’s harder to get a better jumping horse that him, so I’ll be relying on that. He’s pretty honest, as well. I think [his speed] is kind of what God’s given him, but having said that there are many ways to go faster and it’s not always about top speed. You can save time on the approach and get away from the jumps, have tighter lines and try to keep a constant speed rather than slowing him up too much.”

Mia Farley and Invictus. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Mia Farley was the day one leader, scoring a 30.0 with Karen O’Connor’s Invictus, who just finished third in the Cosequin Lexington CCI4*-S at Kentucky two weeks ago. This is the second 4*-L effort for this pair, and Mia had to manage a bit more tension than she is typically used to on “Sammy” yesterday. It was truly an exercise in working with the horse you have on the day. At Kentucky, Mia had referred to Invictus as “Mr. Reliable”, not typically too fussed with atmosphere — but she had a slightly different ride underneath her yesterday.

“I felt it in the pre-ride and the warm-up,” Mia said. She wound up changing her pre-ride routine a bit to account for the change. “I wanted to do shorter — like, not one big ride, so two short rides. So I came out again and I still just wasn’t getting where I wanted to, so in the warm-up I just made sure I could lower him and raise him so I had those tools and then just went in there and tried to communicate as much as I could. The quality of work felt good, it just felt fragile. But I felt more mature in there too — like, before I’d get a little frustrated if it wasn’t perfect, and in there I was just trying to give him confidence and I think he was trying really hard.”

Here Mia uses the term “positive tension” which is a bit oxymoronic in its appearance. I asked her what this meant to her. “I think if they’re feeling a little on edge, it’s just about making the most of that,” she elaborated. “Obviously you can’t push them, and I did not feel I could push him yesterday, so it was just using those nerves to make the best of what we had.”

Looking to Clayton Fredericks’ (AUS) course tomorrow, Phillip was complimentary of the challenge ahead: “I like what he’s done this year. You have a minute and a half of just four [jumps], so I like that. And then it’s kind of technical, but not overly so in the middle section, then you cross the road. I may be wrong, but I think he might have gone a little easy on the coffin there. I thought it was straightforward. And then obviously the big lake is a very, very big jump in, but then you have a bit of time to get to the two narrows. And the rest of it is more [asking] if you’ve got any horse left, and being able to hold your line.”

Tamie Smith and Danito. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

And a quick update on the US Open Qualifier CCI4*-S — we’ll plan to catch up with the winner tomorrow, but for now it’s Tamie Smith still leading the way after adding no penalties to her 19.5 earned with Ruth Bley’s Danito yesterday. Show jumping was held this afternoon, and Tamie was able to keep her lead to gain a 7.6 point advantage over second-placed Will Coleman with the Off the Record Syndicate’s Off the Record (27.1). Initially second after dressage, Lucienne Bellissimo and Dyri lowered one rail to move to third place on a score of 27.2.

You’ll be able to watch live all day long tomorrow on Horse & Country! Here’s the link for the live stream. The first division on cross country will be the CCI2*-L at 8:30 am EST, followed by the 4*-S at 10:15 am EST and the 4*-L beginning around 12:05 am EST. For the full schedule, visit the Event Entries Show Center here and click “General Schedule”.

Tryon International Three-Day Event (NC): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Schedule] [Scoring] [Live Stream] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [Volunteer]

EN’s Ultimate Guide to the 2026 MARS Badminton CCI5*

By on May 8, 2026 1:12 pm -

We are kicking off another week of CCI5* action, this time outside of London at the 2026 MARS Badminton Horse Trials! As is tradition, you can use this Ultimate Guide as your one-stop shop to following along with all of the happenings on site.

This week, EN’s coverage will be helmed by Tilly Berendt, with Sophie Robbins on photos and Incanto Sports Group providing us with video (stay tuned for a highlight reel on Sunday!). Sally Spickard, Cheg Darlington and Allie Heninger will be supporting from home. Thank YOU for reading and supporting our work!

MARS Badminton CCI5*: [Website] [Tickets] [Live Stream] [Entries] [Schedule] [Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]

The Schedule

For our purposes, we’ll be sharing the competition schedule below. However, if you’re attending in person there is a full slate of other activities alongside the main attraction, including demonstrations, parties, the LeMieux Grassroots Championships and much more. You can view the full event timetable here. For time zone conversions, we’ll be using British Summer Time and Eastern Standard Time as our references; if you want further help converting, we recommend the free site WorldTimeBuddy more than our own math skills.

Wednesday May 6 – 4:30 pm BST / 11:30 am EST: First Horse Inspection

Thursday May 7 – 10:00 am BST / 5:00 am EST: Dressage Day 1

Friday May 8 – 10:00 am BST / 5:00 am EST: Dressage Day 2

Saturday May 9 – 11:30 am BST / 6:30 am EST: Cross Country

Sunday May 10 – 8:30 am BST / 3:30 am EST: Final Horse Inspection
Sunday May 10 – 11:30 am BST / 6:30 am EST: Show Jumping First Group
Sunday May 10 – 2:45 pm BST / 10:45 am EST: Show Jumping Top 20

How to Watch and Follow

Badminton makes it quite simple to follow along all week, and you have a couple options. The easiest way, if you don’t already have a full ClipMyHorse.TV account already, is to purchase a Badminton TV pass for about $29USD. This pass gives you access to the stream, which is run on the ClipMyHorse platform, for the weekend, as well as on-demand action from previous years while the pass is active. Alternatively if you do have a full ClipMyHorse membership, you can log right in and access the stream/on-demand viewing.

For more information on the live stream, click here. To access it directly on ClipMyHorse, click here.

Another fabulous feature of MARS Badminton is Radio Badminton, which provides some truly spectacular broadcast coverage of the full weekend. You can listen here.

Lastly, you can also download the official Badminton app (more info here) which will have the fully updated schedule/timetable and more at your fingertips.

To follow along on social media, you can use the links below or follow hashtag #marsbadmintonhorsetrials2026:

The Players

After one late withdrawal this morning (Gemma Stevens and Chilli King), we will see 61 pairs start competition after today’s First Horse Inspection. 11 different nations are represented, and we’re well-represented with several members of the FEI Eventing top 15 world-ranked riders.

If you want the full deep dive on the field, your first stop should be our Form Guide full of all the information you need on the field, plus access to our full database of horse and rider profiles. You can view that here.

Other resources:

EN’s Coverage

Check back here throughout the week for the latest stories from EN!

SUNDAY MAY 10

Friday Afternoon at Badminton: Ros is Untouchable; Belgium Makes a Bid

By on May 8, 2026 12:55 pm -

In a thrilling about-face after the Friday lunch-break at MARS Badminton, seven horses and riders posted unprecedented sub-22 scores to push Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo right out of – nah, don’t worry, we’re kidding, they’re still in the lead on this morning’s 23.7, to absolutely nobody’s surprise but everybody’s great admiration. (Everybody including Queen Camilla: when Ros joined us in the mixed zone earlier, we were warned to keep our questions quick, concise, and to the point, because she was just moments away from being whisked off to meet Her Majesty. No word back yet on whether she received any more 9s for her curtsey, but we’ll assume so.)

By the by, Queen Camilla wasn’t just here for the day to watch some great sport and meet our current sporting head of state – Her Majesty is Patron of the Ebony Horse Club, a Brixton-based initiative that provides access to horses to young people in south London who may not otherwise have the opportunity to learn to ride and care for them. It’s an incredible effort and has done extraordinary work to diversify riding and create a safe, welcoming environment for riders to flourish when they may not otherwise be able to get a foot in the door, and it was a delight to see some of the Club’s members mounted in the main arena to demonstrate the product of their hard work. You can find out more about Ebony, and support their work if you’re able, here.

So how’s that leaderboard looking? There’s Ros in top spot, of course, and then the US’s Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl, Thursday’s emotional leaders who put a 28.1 on the board yesterday afternoon  and have stayed firmly in the mix ever since.

And in third? A new addition this afternoon, a third flag at the business end of the leaderboard, and another woman who probably couldn’t really love her horse more if she tried.

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Hooney d’Arville have firmly catapulted themselves into ‘fan favourite’ territory since their victory at Luhmühlen CCI5* in 2024 – Belgium’s first-ever five-star win and the zenith of a storied partnership that began well before Hooney was a foal on the ground. Lara bred the mare, putting her youth championship – and senior World Championships — ride Nooney Blue to the Belgian showjumping stallion Vigo d’Arsouilles, but in a funny sort of way, the significance of Hooney’s parentage meant that Lara struggled under the weight of her own expectations, and it took plenty of time, patience, and the odd bit of turbulence en route to seal the deal as an established, consistently competitive partnership.

Now, though? They’re at the forefront not just of Belgian eventing, but of the broader global sport, too. Today, they hit another milestone, earning a five-star personal best of 28.6 to take overnight third place at the close of the dressage phase.

“If you’re going to do a PB, Badminton is the right place to do it,” laughs Lara. “She felt fantastic in there. She knows she’s in Badminton, and she has been quite a lot to handle when we arrived, but my groom did a fantastic job [keeping her on track] until now.”

Her groom, the FEI Groom of the Year Bettina Cardinael, has “let her graze for about four hours a day,” continues Lara, “to not let her think too much about it all.”

Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Hooney d’Arville. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

That, and keeping the work to a minimum – a tough ask for a rider who has one horse to focus on all week, when it’s all too tempting to keep oneself busy in the saddle.

“Obviously I want her to be on top form tomorrow, so it’s the challenge of trying to be the good athlete and the good rider, and also taking a lot of time out without the work,” she says. “She knows the work now; she’s thirteen years old and has nothing to learn, so it’s just about keeping her happy.”

“For me,” she continues, “we didn’t have the best preparation – we had a fall [at Kronenberg in March] and she ended up in the stable for ten days because we thought she might have a fracture, but it ended up not being anything, luckily. Then, I wasn’t sure I was going to come here; now, I’m here.”

It is, she acknowledges, “such an accomplishment to be here, and riding in that arena with nothing to lose. I think I’m finally enjoying my time at Badminton, and it not being so stressful. I enjoyed going in there; I felt she was great.”

They did, perhaps, have a slight moment of stress just before the start of their test: “[Ground Jury President] Kiki Klingspor rang the bell really early, so we had to do a bit of running into the arena, but maybe it allowed me to externalise my stress a bit!”

From then on out, it was smooth and sweet – and a rare moment in which Lara didn’t reach for immediate self-criticism.

“I think we made everyone proud – at least myself,” she grins.

Felix Vogg and Cartania. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

It’s a real treat to see such an international top ten at the tail end of the first phase: the top seven after dressage all represent different nations. Fourth-placed among them at this early stage is Switzerland’s Felix Vogg and Cartania, the spicy mare with whom he won Maryland 5 Star last autumn.

The pair posted a 28.7 – just 0.4 higher than their first-phase score when winning Maryland, and their best Badminton score yet. Still, in her fourth visit here – she was eleventh in 2024 and fifteenth in 2023 – fifteen-year-old Cartania hasn’t quite learned to settle into the colossus of buzz that a Friday here conjures up.

“It was a  disaster the last few days, and still out there in the arena she got nervous – but somehow, we always get it done,” says Felix with a grin. “All the way up [from the stables], the atmosphere, the dogs barking, all this stuff – she’s not so used to it.”

Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

2024 Badminton champions Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier have gone to the mid-20s at this level when competing at Burghley last autumn, and so their very smart 29.8 today doesn’t threaten their personal best – but it’s more than good enough for overnight fifth place, and it eclipses, too, the 30 they put on the board en route to winning here two years ago.

“I’m very pleased,” says Caroline. “You know, it’s  tough out there to get a good mark, but she went out and put a game face on, and she, she was very good. I’m very happy.”

At thirteen, ‘Cavvy’ is just coming into her prime, despite already being a five-star winner and with four completions at the level under her belt (girth?) already. Today, it was clear to see how much she’s physically come on over the winter, with her big, athletic frame looking stronger and more engaged than ever before and giving us yet another reason to suspect that Team NZ might just come into their best form yet this summer.

Tim Price and Falco. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

Speaking of team NZ, a little bit further down the top ten – past Brazil’s Marcio Carvalho Jorge and Royal Encounter in sixth (29.2), Great Britain’s Will Rawlin and Ballycoog Breaker Boy in seventh (29.3), Wills Oakden and Keep It Cooley in eighth (29.4), and Bubby Upton and Cola in ninth (29.8) is Tim Price and his 2022 World Championships double bronze medallist Falco, who round out our post-dressage top ten on a score of 29.9.

“A sub-30 is good, but I wanted a good, low, proper score in there. Sounds a little bit stupid, doesn’t it?” laughs Tim. “ But he is capable, and he can really put together a great test. It just takes a couple of mistakes, especially a little bit of tension, even though, overall, I think it’s quite relaxed and soft and a nice way of going. But as soon as there’s a little bit of tension, I think it just gets the judges a little bit.”

Tim, who had an operation on his collarbone just prior to Kentucky thanks to an ill-timed incident on an electric bike, still looked a touch tentative in his upper body in the ring today, but when pressed, grins and says, “the shoulders are all good – I’ve still got two of them.”

Two is all you need, we suppose.

Grace Taylor and Game Changer. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

One more US representative took to the ring today: Grace Taylor and Game Changer take provisional equal 15th place, level with Ireland’s Georgie Goss and Feloupe, after posting a 30.8 this afternoon. That’s a nearly five-mark improvement over the last two years’ Badminton tests.

“I’m really happy with him,” says Grace. “You always want more, but he went really well, and I’m really pleased. Like, it’s a fantastic atmosphere. We all work towards events like this our whole lives, and to go in there and have the crowd cheer you is always amazing.”

Tomorrow, she hopes, will propel them even closer to the top ten finish they’d love to secure at this level.

“This is our seventh five-star, and I think we have four clears from six so far – so I’ll take that average,” she smiles.

That’s a wrap on dressage here at MARS Badminton, but certainly not the end of the line from EN – we’ll be bringing you plenty more before the day’s end, so head on over to our Ultimate Guide to catch up on the coverage you may have missed and stay tuned for lots more to come. Until then: Go Eventing!

The top ten at the end of dressage at MARS Badminton.

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Rapid Update from MARS Badminton: The Dressage Phase

By on May 8, 2026 12:10 pm -

Dressage leaders Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

EN’s classic full report will be with you just as soon as our boots on the ground have wrangled all the action into a readable format, until then, here’s a rapid update of what went down in the dressage phase at MARS Badminton.

THE HIGHLIGHTS:

It’s a smorgasbord of 5* champions and nationalities at the top of the board after the first phase.

1️⃣ 🇬🇧 Leader in the clubhouse is reigning champion Ros Canter and Lordship’s Graffalo on a score of 23.7.

2️⃣ 🇺🇸 Dropping just one place after leading the first day is Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl on a score of 28.1.

3️⃣ 🇧🇪 Rounding out the rolling podium is Luhmühlen 2024 winners Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Hooney d’Arville on a score of 28.6.

4️⃣ 🇨🇭 Just 0.1 off the podium placings as we head into tomorrow’s cross country is Maryland 2025 winners Felix Vogg and Cartania on a score of 28.7.

5️⃣ 🇳🇿 And within striking distance is 2024 Badminton winners Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier on a score of 28.9.

You’ll find the full scoreboard right here.

THE UNDERDOGS:

🔼 It’s no secret that Jesse Campbell and Cooley Lafitte had a dressage disaster at Badminton last year (check out Jesse’s YouTube channel for a debrief of that test), so Jesse was very pleased with his score of 38 this time around.

⏩ A sub-30 score despite a mistake isn’t a bad showing at all, with Wills Oakden and Keep It Cooley putting down a PB of 29.4 in spite of a misunderstanding in the trot work dropping their scores right down after they’d been trending in the lead (at that point in proceedings). This horse is amongst the fastest in the field for cross country and is one to watch, both at Badminton this year and in the future.

‼️ Rookie horses exceeding expectations (based on EquiRatings stats) include:

  • Tom Jackson’s United 36 who landed on his 6RA of 32.2 (we would usually expect the score to creep up with a step up in level).
  • Michael Owen’s Monbeg Darwin who shaved almost two marks off his 6RA to sit on 34.3.
  • Marcio Carvalho Jorge’s Royal Encounter who rose to the occasion with the Queen watching on and went sub-30 with a score of 29.2.

THE CROSS COUNTRY MACHINES:

❗ Gemma Stevens was disappointed with her test with Chilli Knight, saying herself that she went off in a sulk afterwards. There were some uncharacteristic errors, including a whoopsie in the medium canter that landed them 4s across the board. They’re off the pace on a score of 34 but were clear inside the time on cross country day last year, so expect a leaderboard climb tomorrow.

0️⃣ Another rider who didn’t have the round he wanted in the dressage phase was Harry Meade with his third ride Cavalier Crystal. The mare scored 33.8 last year and 30.5 at Burghley, but it was 34.6 today. She finished on her dressage score twelve months ago, however, ending up in 3rd place, so it’s all to play for tomorrow for this pair.

🔺 Alex Bragg and Quindiva are proven climbers, improving their 48th place after dressage in 2024 to make it onto the podium at the end of the event. They start out this year on a score of 39 in 49th place.

⚡ Max Warburton’s Deerpairc Revelry tends to be workmanlike on the flat, correct and consistent but not so flashy for the big scores. They sit in a big bunch of scores around the 30-31 mark on 31.8 but are expected to set themselves apart tomorrow with a super speedy cross country round.

🪜 Eventing surely isn’t a dressage competition and other combinations we can expect to be in the ascendency on cross country day include:

  • Tom Bird and Cowling Hot Gossip (45.1).
  • Holly Richardson and Ballyneety Silver Service (41.2).
  • Arne Bergendahl and Luthien NRW (38.8).
  • Cassie Sanger and Redfield Fyre (37.5).
  • Cosby Green and Jos Ufo de Quidam (34.9).

THE STATS:

Sub-30 is the benchmark for real success in the dressage phase and 10 combinations cracked that barrier at Badminton this year.

The judging has generally been received as a little harsh, but consistently so across the field. It was particularly noticeable in the case of Ros Canter and Lordship’s Graffalo perhaps, despite scoring two 9s for their halt at C (from the judges at H and B) and another one for the second flying change (from the judge at B), there was the feeling that perhaps there was room for a bit more generosity overall, with an argument for some of the 7s to come in at 7.5 and the 7.5s to push to 8s, maybe. Nevertheless, they went into the lead with a superb score of 23.7.

Scores for individual movements came in across the board, with 0.5 the lowest to 9 at the top end. The judges tended to use the range of scores available to them – where a movement dropped marks, they were straight back to rewarding when things in the ring improved.

There were (satisfyingly) nine 9s handed out in total, primarily for the halts.

🇺🇸 American girls Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl held the overnight lead on Thursday after an elegant performance secured them a PB of 28.1. They scored the only 9 of the first day (from the judge at H) for their final flying change.

Alongside Ros and Tiana, the other combinations with 9s in their scores include:

  • Emily King and Valmy Biats – from the C judge for their entry, halt and salute.
  • Nadja Minder and Toblerone – from the H judge for their entry, halt and salute, and from both the C and B judges for their final halt, impressively from the head on and side on view.
  • Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Hooney d’Arville – from the H judge for their final halt.
  • Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier – from the B judge for their second flying change.

➖ Four combinations picked up deductions to their score, most notably Aistis Vitkauskas and Commander VG who had a tricky time in the ring and picked up a deduction of 6 points, not least for halting early on the center line at the end of the test.

And there you have it.

Eyes on EN for the full report coming soon.

Go eventing!

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Friday Morning at MARS Badminton: Everything’s Coming Up Ros’s

By on May 8, 2026 9:12 am -

Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

Nothing in life can be said to be certain, except death, taxes, and, in this era of eventing, the continued dominance of Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. The reigning MARS Badminton champions come into this week’s competition as firm favourites to win again, and today, it felt like a comfortable certainty that they’d sail into the first phase lead. We can’t speak quite yet to how the results will look at the end of the day – though we feel fairly confident nothing much will change at the tippy-top of proceedings – but as we hit Friday lunchtime, they’re true to form and back on top with a smart score of 23.7. That puts them 4.7 penalties ahead of yesterday’s leaders, US representatives Tiana Coudray and Cancaras Girl, on their score of 28.1.

“I’m absolutely delighted,” says Ros, who’s mostly been seen this week with second child Seneh, born on January 24, strapped to her even while walking the course.

“I said goodbye to her agood hour and a half before my test because I didn’t want to be anywhere near her,” laughs Ros. “I pumped a load of milk out of the boobs to flatten me out a bit, and then away I go!”

“It’s been a funny few weeks, having just had a baby –– my focus is on a very different thing at the moment, so I’ve had to work really hard the last few days to make sure I’m in the right frame of mind. I was possibly a little bit stressed this morning, but I gave myself a word, had a bit of time by myself, and came out with a real plan. I’m just delighted that it paid off.”

Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

Ros and ‘Walter’s’ largely very correct, workmanlike test wasn’t wholly perfect: the flying changes scored very well across the test, and deservedly so, but it was still possible to see a hint of their fragility – a fragility that cost them valuable marks in last year’s test.

“They weren’t [great] this morning!” says Ros. “But that was more me panicking. I think I rode them just how he needs to ride a change. He’s not a horse that really would ever just choose to do a flying change, so I have to change the canter slightly. Last year I had the canter a bit hot, and then I missed the changes. So it’s a really fine balance with him to get to get them relaxed, but on the bridle.”

Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

This isn’t Ros’s first rodeo where coming back to the sport after a maternity break is concerned: she did the same in mid-2019 and returned to eventing just one month later.

“I think it’s just been a process. It’s one of those things where, when you’re on a timeframe like I’ve been, you perhaps get on a little bit sooner than you ought to, and then you start worrying that the tummy is never going to knock back into shape, and things like that. And then all of a sudden, it gradually just does – I just haven’t had the time to let it do that and then get back on. I’ve been doing it as part of the process. So it always makes me a bit worried in my head.”

“But physically, I feel good. Mentally, I feel good when I’m on a horse. There’s just lots to do at the moment, and my time is pushed. So it’s just trying to factor in those moments to be a mum and to be an athlete.”

Something that helps enormously, she says, is having a horse like Walter to accompany her through the process.

“I think most people would trust Walter if they got to ride him,” she smiles.  “To be honest, he’s an absolute legend. The more the crowd cheers, the more he enjoys it. Not once did he light up – he stands there and has a scratch, and he thoroughly enjoys being here. So that just means that he has a very rational brain when he’s out on course, and he tends to be very consistent in the way he behaves. And so I tend to know what I’ve got, so that helps me, and then I’ve just got to concentrate on trying to give him a good ride.”

Marcio Carvalho Jorge and Royal Encounter. Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

British-based Brazilian Marcio Carvalho Jorge steps into provisional third place after earning a 29.2 with the five-star debutant Royal Encounter – a score better than their four-star personal best.

“I’m very pleased, really happy,” beams Marcio. “He’s such a nice horse, with such a good brain. He coped really well with this crowd. I think it’s his first time in an environment like this, and he was really such a good boy. His brain is always trying to do the right thing. He has such a good brain. This is, I think, his best quality.”

Marcio bought the Irish-bred gelding by Lancelot as a five-year-old with Annabel,  Alastair, and Ken Vere Nicholl, all of whom have stayed on as owners throughout the horse’s journey to this level. Along the way, that’s seen them jump clear around Le Lion’s Six- and Seven-Year-Old Championships twice, finishing top ten as a six-year-old, and take second place in Millstreet’s CCI4*-L a year ago.

“He’s always had such a nice brain,” says Marcio. “And he’s always been very cute. He sleeps all day. Even here, before his dressage test, he was laying down sleeping. He does this every day; it doesn’t matter if he’s at a competition or at home. It’s so funny, but it’s also good, because he rests his body and his legs.”

While Royal Encounter may be a laid-back sort of chap, Marcio – who trains with William Fox-Pitt – also knew that on his day, he’d be able to deliver a very competitive test to become a challenger in this competition.

“We had the expectation. He’s been doing well in four-stars, but we never know ––competitions sometimes go right, sometimes go wrong, and it’s his first time in an environment like that. I didn’t know how we would be, if he would spook or something, but we always thought, if everything goes well, if there’s nothing wrong, it could be a good result. And thanks to god it was.”

Wills Oakden and Keep It Cooley. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

Last night’s runners-up Will Rawlin and Ballycoog Breaker Boy move to fourth on their 29.3, just ahead of Scottish-based Wills Oakden and Keep It Cooley, who slot into fifth on 29.4.

“We rate him highly – we love the horse,” says Wills of the eleven-year-old, who made his debut at the level at Luhmühlen last year, though didn’t complete cross-country after a smattering of problems. Today, the gelding largely looked considerably more experienced than he did last season, though hopes of a better score were dashed by a couple of breaks to canter in the left trot half-pass.

“He’s still young, and he’s immature and inexperienced at this level,” he continues. “So this week’s about just trying to give him mileage and give him exposure in this kind of atmosphere and around that kind of track.”

This, he says, “is just phase one. We’ll see where we are at the end of it, because there’s a lot to do. But we’re delighted with him in his test, other than that one mistake, which is so annoying because it’s normally his best movement, as well. But it is what it is! You take it, you move on. If that’s the worst thing that’s going to happen this week, then that’ll be fine, and we’ll move on. He’s a really nice horse for the future, anyway.”

Thursday morning leaders Bubby Upton and Cola are now sixth on 29.8, while seventh place on the leaderboard is a very cozy little clubhouse indeed: three riders share the spot, all having scored a 30.3 on very different horses.

Harry Meade and Annaghmore Valoner. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

The first of those to come forward today was the first horse and rider partnership to come into the ring this morning. Harry Meade and Annaghmore Valoner presented a more uphill, elevated picture than usual, and while that sometimes meant that the Bramham-winning mare’s movement was a touch more conservative than it perhaps could be, it went some way to demonstrating how much physical strength she’s developed over the last few seasons.

“It’s probably been not so much since the end of last season, but the last few years she’s been with me,” says Harry, who’s currently sitting =29th with yesterday’s ride Et Hop du Matz, and will return this afternoon with Cavalier Crystal.

“With her, it’s all about the softness of her brain, and then allowing everything to come out and up and in front of her,” he continues. “She’s a horse that would naturally have gone into her shell, like a tortoise shrinking back, with a short neck and she’d have gone quickly and breathed heavily. And so for me, it’s all been about filling her with confidence and enjoyment, and never, ever making her feel like she’s done something wrong. When there’s a mistake, you say ‘sorry, that’s my mistake!’ and then do [the movement] again. It’s really important for her confidence that she’s able to exhale and then really grow and come out and travel with that freedom and liberty and flare.”

Today, he says, “I was thrilled with her. She was lovely, just lovely — supple, soft, really accurate. I didn’t think she left anything behind. She’s a horse that I do little and often with. I don’t work her for too long. And ideally,  if she’d not be too early today, it would have been nice to have ridden her one or two more times and just done a bit of poles or something.”

Harry has been hard at work on his own progress in this phase too, and procured himself an upper-level dressage horse to train on at home over the winter.

“I thought I’d just play around a bit over the winter, but actually, I completely enjoy riding him,” he smiles. “I ride him probably two days out of three. I’ve enjoyed working on some of the Grand Prix movements and tempi changes and passage – it’s been good fun. I thought that, having been in this sport for a while, it’s good to mix things up and have a new, fresh thing to work on.”

Emily King and Valmy Biats. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

Emily King and Valmy Biats are the second horse and rider to sit in that seventh place spot, and while they can hit the mid-20s on their day, their season so far has been a touch stop-start: they had a tricky test at Thoresby’s CCI4*-S early last month, and then a fall from a young horse in the warm-up sidelined Emily for the rest of the week and a short chunk of time thereafter.

“It hasn’t been the smoothest starts of the year, hiccups along the way, but I’m feeling good, feeling strong and healed up, so it shouldn’t hold me back tomorrow,” says Emily.

Their test today represented a marked improvement on that test, and plenty to be happy about as their week gets underway.

“He always goes a little bit anxious with the crowds, and there’s always a balance of keeping him relaxed, but still showing him off enough,” she says. “In the past I’ve tried really showing him off, and then had some bigger mistakes, and then got a bit underpowered, and then had a little bit of an average or lower score. So I was just trying to get that balance with him. But today he did feel really good — in the general work, he felt amazing. He always finds his walk hard, and just wants to gallop, so you have to say, ‘okay, you can in a minute, but you’ve got a little bit to do first!’”

Nadja Minder and Toblerone. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

The last horse and rider before the lunch break are our final pair in that seventh place position: that’s Switzerland’s Nadja Minder and the evergreen 19-year-old Toblerone, who scored 9s for their first and final halts to top-and-tail their test sweetly.

“I’m very proud – he’s an absolute legend,” grins Nadja. “He was quite lit up in the warm-up, like more than usually, but he’s such a professional, and he tries so hard and just knows his job. He’s an absolute chocolate legend, I always say.”

At nineteen, Toblerone is looking better than ever – and, Nadja says, he feels it, too.

“He feels better now than when I got him six years ago. He’s really got more supple through work and everything, and he’s just also an absolute athlete and machine. He also started [his career] quite late, so he’s not as [high mileage] as other 19-year-olds might be. He doesn’t need that much preparation, and he’s super professional, so I can just go from show to show and only do what’s necessary.”

Nadja is now based back in Switzerland, but did a stint last year based with Piggy March – and that working relationship is one that continues to pay dividends this week.

“I arrived on Saturday at her place, and we did the last polish together,” says Nadja. “She helped me over the past couple of days here, too. We understand each other; we speak the same language – sometimes it can be a bit risky if you work with someone just for a big show, but with her, it works totally fine. And she knows Toblerone so well.”

Fiona Kashel and Creevagh Silver de Haar. Photo by Sophie Robins/Girl in the Field.

Fiona Kashel and another evergreen competitor in eighteen-year-old Creevagh Silver de Haar round out top ten before our final session on a score of 30.5.

“He’s not an amazing mover, but he’s just so correct,” says Fiona. “He’s 18 years old now, and he just seems to have got better with age. He’s stronger in his body, and I’ve actually been amazed how much he’s come on in the last couple of years, with where he’s at with his strength and how his body is coping with it.”

Today, the marks still aren’t quite being given away: “He was on 28.4 last year, and I would say it was as good a test as he did last year. He always keeps his head; nothing really phases him. He’s actually really spooky at home, which is amazing, because he doesn’t spook anything here, and he’s just not fazed by it.”

We’re heading back into the final session of dressage here at Badminton – but we’ll be back before long with the end of day report and all the stories you need to know. Until then: Go Eventing!

The top ten at MARS Badminton at Friday lunchtime.

MARS Badminton CCI5*: [Website] [Tickets] [Live Stream] [Entries] [Schedule] [Scoring] [CrossCountry App XC Maps] [EN’s Coverage]