Classic Eventing Nation

It’s time to take a deep breath and take a gander at what Derek di Grazia has up his sleeve this year for his third year in residence at Defender Burghley’s iconic CCI5* offering.

This year’s track has everyone, including us, buzzing about its dimensions and technicality — but of course, it wouldn’t be Burghley without a fair amount of sleep loss and pants-soiling. One thing about Derek, though, is that his courses are generally received with respect and a clear understanding that he’s set out a track that allows horses to read the questions well.

That doesn’t mean the riders aren’t doing a good bit of hand-wringing, particularly about some very tall, tall, arrowheads set at the bottom of the Holland Cooper Leaf Pit (an iconic fence in its own right), among other questions on course. You can catch up with what they’ve said in our Riders React round-up here.

And if you’re wanting to see the course close up with Derek di Grazia as your guide, don’t forget there’s a full preview video on Burghley TV!

Saturday’s track features an optimum time of 11:14, with 30 fences set across 45 jumping efforts. The general direction of the course is the same as its 2023 predecessor, but all of the combinations have been changed and the single fences have also been relocated to different parts.

“You’re not going to get a site like this anywhere in the world,” Derek di Grazia said of the land here. “The terrain — the undulating terrain — it just makes for being able to set a very unique course here.”

And indeed it’s true. There is a LOT of terrain on this piece of ground, making it a grueling fitness test as well as a mental test with an unrelenting series of questions to answer. It’s a day that will require mental fortitude from horse and rider and quick thinking to put each horse in the best position to succeed.

Photo via CrossCountryApp.

One new combination on course this year is actually situated in the Main Arena for the first time ever. The MARS Equestrian Arena Brushes question comes early at fence 4 as the first combination, featuring a large double brush and an option of two narrow brushes to be jumped directly or on the alternative route. Not much trouble to expect here, but the first bit of the course has earned plenty of buzz for its intensity (really, just the first bit?), so this combination will be key to injecting confidence and rhythm into each pair.

The Holland Cooper Leaf Pit comes at fence 7 on course and features *those* triple arrowheads that have any rider who’s not at least 7 feet tall quaking in their tall boots.

“The riders really have to make sure they keep going, keep the revs up, especially as you head up [the slope to the BC element], you start to see how big the jump is. They need to be able to get across this jump to be able to keep riding forward [to the DE brush],” Derek described. And of course, not least of the challenges here is simply getting down off the Leaf Pit neatly — as Derek put it, “the horses, you don’t know when they come here if they’re just going to step off or if they’re going to leap off,” and there’s not a huge amount of time to get right on the line to the big brush.

That said, many riders have intimated that they’re at least considering going long here, and while Derek’s alternative routes tend to be friendly in the sense that they mostly allow a rider to keep some semblance of rhythm, they actually seem to be *quite* long this year and as a result very time-consuming. And with an 11+ minute optimum, you’re not going to want to be out there having your horse galloping for much longer than that. Safety is key though, so I expect we’ll see plenty of alternatives used.

By the way, Derek refers to this Leaf Pit monstrosity as “a fun fence”, so…there’s that.

Another question that caught my eye is the Defender Dairy Mound, which comes at fences 22 and 23 this year. Late on course, riders will be managing stamina and trying to squeeze every ounce of maneuverability out of their horses, and this question certainly challenges both of these.

Any cross country course is a study in power and skill — a horse cannot simply be powerful and scopey; they must be quick-footed and quick in the mind, as well as willing to listen to direction. This question, which concludes with a relatively unassuming log followed by a steep downhill and a sharp turn to the final element, could catch out a tiring pair that loses the ability to turn quickly, and with the left door open so wide this fence could be a late heartbreaker.

I’ve really barely scratched the surface of this test for tomorrow, so I encourage you to check out the full preview on CrossCountryApp above or here, as well as the video walk-through on Burghley TV.

Ride times for tomorrow are available here. We’ll have Cheg Darlington on live blog duty to accompany you through the whole day, so stay tuned for much more from Burghley, and best of luck to everyone riding. Be safe, be clear, and keep those britches clean! Go Eventing.

Our coverage of Burghley is brought to you by our incredible supporters, Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional products to keep your horse feeling their best at all times. They’ll even get on the phone with you to help you formulate a solid supplementation plan for your horse’s individual needs! We’d really appreciate your support of KPP, as they’re champions for our sport and beyond and are wonderful people to boot. Check them out here.

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My, that’s a big b(r)ush. Photo via CrossCountryApp.

OK, so I’ve taken a little creative liberty with that headline, but what’s a missing ‘r’ between friends? In case you’re wondering, the consensus is that Derek needs to trim his bush (sorry, not sorry), particularly in the Leaf Pit area [Fence 7abc].

Richard Jones says the triple brushes at the bottom of the drop are “bigger than anything I’ve ever seen in a five-star” and Matt Heath declares that he’s “never seen so many monstrous triple brushes in my life”.

“Unjumpable” has been uttered once or twice and there’s very much a feeling that the majority of the riders will choose a longer route there, although the options are almost as formidable albeit on slightly more forgiving lines.

For those that do plough ahead and take them on, and of course we (and course designer Derek di Grazia) hope they will, there’s been speculation that they won’t be jumped well. But in this totally stacked field, which is being heralded as the strongest in recent history, those riders at the top of the pack will surely give them a darned good go, and will perhaps even make them look easy. Tom McEwen certainly thinks so.

Aside from the big brushes out there, what else has got the riders talking? Well, there’s no prizes for guessing the buzz words: “big”, “intense”, “massive”, “brave”, “imposing” – everything we expect from Burghley, as Jennie Brannigan sums up very nicely:

“This is what eventing is about, this is eventing, this is the sport. Everyone knows it: big bad Burghley.”

Meanwhile, Derek’s singing away to himself, just under his breath, ‘I like big brush and I cannot lie…’ (probably).

Anyway, we’ve wrangled the riders and asked for their thoughts on what they’ll be facing as they head out of the start box on Saturday.

Which empathetic soul snagged her sneakers and took a run ‘round the track, “to put myself through what the horse is going to go through”?

Who was most succinct in his assessment?

Which young rider is in denial?

Who’s broken out the ‘F’ word?

And who’s being kept up at night by something “hard and huge”?

All this and more down below. Dive right on in and go eventing!

Defender Burghley: [Website] [Entries] [Timing & Scoring] [Burghley TV] [Tickets] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of Defender Burghley is proudly presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for every horse. Click here to learn more about KPP.

🇬🇧 Ros Canter – Izilot DHI – 19.9 – 1st – Lordships Graffalo – 22 – 2nd

Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Ros is in it to win it against herself as things stand going into cross country, with ‘Isaac’ sitting in the lead and ‘Walter’ just 2.1 points behind in second. How does she think the course will suit each of her guys?

“It looks pretty intense at the start to me. I think certainly for Izilot, the narrow passageways into the main arena, that’s the kind of thing that would unsettle him. If I can get him out of Discovery Valley, the Leaf Pit, back through Discovery Valley, I think he’ll settle and I’ve got every faith in his jumping ability, Walter’s jumping ability, and obviously Walter’s galloping ability. I’m sat on two great horses, so I’ve got to go out and attack.”

🇳🇿 Tim Price – Vitali – 22.3 – 2nd – Viscount Viktor – 29.5 – 16th

Tim Price and Vitali. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Tim had a “wee spin round on the bike” and came back to us with “it’s decent”, “proper”. Succinct.

🇬🇧 Emily King – Valmy Biats – 24.1 – 4th

Emily King and Valmy Biats. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Never mind hunting ‘round to the finish flags, Emily’s hoping ‘Val’ doesn’t hoof it home.

“I think it’s a proper track, a really good test. The going is amazing so I think it’ll give them a fair chance. I think you’ve got to get stuck in early on. To me, some of the biggest questions are actually in the first quarter of the course. Mine’s a really bold horse so I need to make sure I come with enough attack and ride it well enough, but actually not go too over the top because he might just make his way back [home] to Chester! I think you really need a bold, brave horse for this type of course. I think you need to get stuck in the beginning and then try and navigate your way round.”

🇬🇧 Oliver Townend – Cooley Rosalent – 24.4 – 5th=

Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Oliver thinks that Burghley has a feel of Kentucky given that Derek is the designer for both, but he’s not complaining – Cooley Rosalent took the Kentucky crown in the spring, so that surely bodes well. Only time will tell.

“It’s serious. It looks, and this isn’t a complaint, but it looks more and more like Kentucky every year, which is bound to happen with the same course designer. [Cooley Rosalent’s] jumped around some big tracks before, and I’m just going to ride her positively and try and look after her as best I can, hope she learns a lot along the way, and hopefully we come home with a good result. The terrain’s the same but the fences seem to get bigger and bigger and narrower and narrower. It’s a serious, tough cross country course.”

🇳🇿 Monica Spencer – Artist – 24.4 – 5th=

Monica Spencer and Artist. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Does Monica like the look of the course?

“I mean, like’s a strong word! I’m terrified! But I’m sure once I leave the start box I’ll find some bravery.”

🇫🇷 Gireg Le Coz – Aisprit de La Loge – 25.3 – 7th

Gireg le Coz and Aisprit de la Loge. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Gireg’s planning on using the benefit of his later draw to see just how much trouble the dreaded Leaf Pit causes before he commits to a solid plan.

“I think I’ll go the direct route everywhere, just to see for the Leaf Pit at the beginning because it’s really difficult. I have time to see other riders go before me, so if it causes too much trouble then I’ll go around maybe. But except that, I’m happy to sit on a horse like him.”

🇳🇿 Caroline Powell – Greenacres Special Cavalier – 25.4 – 8th

Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Caroline and ‘Cav’ won Badminton in the spring, so they’re totally good with a massive track. But there’s one fence on her mind as she contemplates the task at Burghley, you guessed it, the Leaf Pit.

“The Leaf Pit’s pretty beefy, I haven’t quite made up my mind what I’m going to do there. The whole way round it’s just quite relentless. If we can take each jump in each section as it comes, there’s plenty of places to put little breathers in.”

Caroline also put a shout out to one of her girls at home who was kicked in the face on Thursday and was operated on on Friday. “Speedy recovery Allison, don’t be too long! Bad way of getting time off!”

🇬🇧 Pippa Funnell – MCS Maverick – 28.3 – 12th – Majas Hope – 29.6 – 17th

Pippa Funnell and MCS Maverick. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Pippa made her debut at the top level almost three decades ago, with Bits And Pieces at Badminton in 1997, so you’d think she’d seen it all when it comes to cross country fences. Apparently not.

“I’ve never seen such big arrowheads in my entire career.”

🇬🇧 Tom Jackson – Capels Hollow Drift – 28.6 – 13th

Tom Jackson and Capels Hollow Drift. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Tom’s got a shout out for the Burghley team, for the amazing ground not just out on course, but in the warm ups too.

“I mean, there’s a lot to do. I think it’s a very fair test in that it’s fairly obvious what we’ve got to do, but that doesn’t make it easy because there’s some really big, tricky combinations out there. And the thing is here that if you make a marginal error, or the horse does, then you’re going to end up with penalties, so you’ve just got to be on it all the way around. They’ve done an amazing job with the ground. I mean, I can’t believe even all the warm ups, it’s just phenomenal. So big thanks to the Burghley team because that is very much appreciated by all of us riders, I think.”

🇨🇭 Felix Vogg – Cartania – 28.8 – 14th

Felix Vogg and Cartania. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Felix is feelin’ curious.

“It’s a bit higher than Badminton, but it will be interesting. I’ve only walked it once, but I think it’s very clear, like always with Derek. I have no idea how it will ride and how the profile will be, the up and down, but so far, it will be interesting.”

🇬🇧 Max Warburton – Deerpairc Revelry – 28.9 – 15th

Max Warburton and Deerpairc Revelry. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Max seems undaunted by the task ahead and will be taking the Pony Club ‘kick on’ approach.

“It’s big, we’re at Burghley obviously. But it’s all there in front of you to jump and we’ve just got to kick on.”

🇬🇧 Gemma Stevens – Chilli Knight – 29.7 – 18th

Gemma Tattersall and Chilli Knight. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Wash your mouth out, young lady! Gemma’s broken out the profanities because “big” just won’t do.

“Have you seen the Leaf Pit?! Big ‘the F word’ jumps. There’s not much else to say. You’ve got to be accurate, you’ve got to be fast, you’ve got to be bold, you’ve got to be straight, brave, completely and utterly nuts to do this.”

🇺🇸 Hannah Sue Hollberg – Capitol H I M – 30.7 – 20th

Hannah Sue Hollberg and Capitol H I M. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Hannah’s having sleepless nights about something “hard and huge”. OK, context is everything:

“It looks like Burghley. It’s hard and huge. The Leaf Pit is kind of keeping me up at night right now. The beginning is a lot to do, and then hopefully you can just stay upright all the way home. I’m looking forward to it on this horse.”

🇬🇧 Tom McEwen – CHF Cooliser – 31.2 – 23rd

Tom McEwen and CHF Cooliser. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Bucking the trend and “100%” looking forward to taking a spin ‘round the behemoth of a track, Tom’s gone all out and given EquiRatings a run for their money with a bold prediction that three combinations will be clear inside the time.

“I think the course is great. I think those skinnies are bloody massive and there’s plenty of other big fences out there. But do you know what? It’s a great track. I actually think it flows very well, and honestly, I can see some of the stellar five-star cross country horses actually make it look really good and fun, and actually cruising around with the time, to be honest. I think it’s another stellar track for Burghley.”

🇬🇧 Matt Heath – Askari – 31.9 – 27th – Golden Recipe – 43.7 – 64th

Matt Heath and Askari. Photo by Libby Law.

Burghley’s no dressage test, that’s for sure, and Matt sees the scoreboard being “shattered” on cross country day.

“I don’t know whether it’s as big as ‘19, 2019 I thought was massive, [Captain Mark Phillips’] last year — I walked out of that thinking he’d got five years of ideas left and decided to pack them all into his last year. But I think it’s the second biggest that I’ve come across, if not challenging the biggest. The only difference is that 2019 was quite a solid track, the fences were all quite solid; there is a lot of brush out there this time. I’ve never seen so many monstrous triple brushes in my life. I think it’s very intense early on as well. I can see the scoreboard shattered on Saturday, not with a dangerous track in any way, shape or form, I think it’s a great track, but I think it’s going to cause a lot of influence.”

He’s one rider who is planning on going straight at the Leaf Pit despite those “monstrous brushes”.

“My plan A at the moment, on both horses, is to go straight. I think that the long route is very long, and it’s still very big. All the long routes all the way around, they’re not much smaller, anywhere you go. Normally we’re used to the long routes taking quite a lot of time but they can be quite kind and forgiving and give riders an opportunity to get horses home, but I don’t feel like the long routes out there do that for us, I think it just takes more bloody time to be honest.”

🇬🇧 Will Rawlin – Ballycoog Breaker Boy – 32 – 28th

Will Rawlin and Ballycoog Breaker Boy. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Will is approximately 12 feet tall and even he thinks the triple brushes at the bottom of the Leaf Pit are enormous.

“Burghley is just so much bigger! Particularly in the first couple of minutes, it’s very intense, and if you’re on a horse that could get a bit brain-fried, then this is a course that could do that, particularly down at the [Leaf Pit], those brushes are huge. I’m a tall guy and I can barely see over the top of them.”

🇮🇪 Ian Cassells – Master Point – 32.4 – 30th

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

Ian’s taking a leap of faith at his first Burghley with a sink or swim metaphor. Hopefully neither, Ian, really.

“It’s my first time here, never walked it before, so I’m literally going in the deep end. I think it starts off quite nice to the arena. I think you want to get the horses nice and settled and into a good rhythm. A lot of combinations, very fast up to the first water, and then I think it allows them to take a breath a little bit with a little bit more galloping fences, and really like settle into your rhythm. I really think it’s important to be efficient and take a little pause, but save the horse at the start.”

🇬🇧 Nicole Mills – Fearless W – 32.6 – 31st

Nicole Mills and Fearless W. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

All the riders here are at least a little on the crazy scale, but Nicole gets extra points for actually running the cross country course. Seriously.

“I ran it last night. I did, I found it quite hard! I thought, I’ve got to put myself through what the horse is going to go through! Yes, it’s big. I mean, I have nothing to compare it to because I’ve not ridden at five-star before and not ridden here before, only in Pony Club. So, yeah, it’s big. I think there’s probably a couple of long routes I might take on first glance, but I plan to walk it another five times, at least, probably not run!”

This pair are making their 5* debut at Burghley, so that’s a few more points added to her crazy tally.

“Burghley is massive and maybe it was a brave choice to come here for our first five star, but he’s a real jumper, like, he’s super scopey and really careful. I’ve just got to make sure I manage him correctly tomorrow [Friday], so that he’s not super wild when he comes out the start box.My first feel was that actually up to the Trout Hatchery, it’s like throwing everything at you, and then I feel like I might be able to get a bit of a breathing space after that. But yeah, I shall be taking deep breaths around the first nine fences, that’s for sure.”

🇳🇿 Dan Jocelyn – Blackthorn Cruise – 33.3 – 34th

Dan Jocelyn and Blackthorn Cruise. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Dan’s thinking of sneaking out in the night with some shears.

“I just couldn’t believe the size of those arrowheads in the Leaf Pit. A lot of people honestly thought, have they not finished trimming them yet? It’s a real Burghley track out there — it’s tough and demanding all the way and you’ve got your little whoop-de-dos in the ground.”

🇺🇲 Mia Farley – Phelps – 33.7 – 36th

Mia Farley and Phelps. Photo by Sally Spickard.

[Interviewer] “Like it?”
[Mia] “I do.”
[Interviewer] “Good. All the Americans have been very positive.”
[Mia] “Well, we might be in denial!”

🇮🇪 Austin O’Connor – Colorado Blue – 33.9 – 37th

Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Austin’s a very cool customer, and a 5* winner, but he admits to being terrified. We don’t believe you, Austin.

“It’s proper big, terrifying Burghley. [Colorado Blue’s] in good order and I wouldn’t want to be sat on anything else at this point.”

🇺🇲 Jennie Brannigan – FE Lifestyle – 34.7 – 40th=

Jennie Brannigan and FE Lifestyle. Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

Big. Enormous. Massive. Pah! Jennie’s living the dream and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else in the world than at Burghley going eventing.

“I love it. The hardest event in the world, but I love it. I wouldn’t want to be on any other horse. I just think it’s the hardest event in the world. Everyone knows, it’s the best event. To me, this is what eventing is about, this is eventing, this is the sport. And this is why, as a kid, I wanted to do it. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else competing at any other show this year. This is it for me. Everyone knows it: big bad Burghley.”

🇬🇧 Francis Whittington – DHI Purple Rain – 34.7 – 40th=

Francis Whittington and DHI Purple Rain. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Ever the horseman, Francis plans to ride off feel, although he’s very certain about his plan to go long at the Leaf Pit.

“I’ve walked it twice now, and on my second walk, I’m clear I’m going to go long route down off the Leaf Pit. It’s quite an imposing fence, I mean, the dimensions on that look crazy ridiculous. The ground, the terrain in front of it — there’s so many variables, and you’re at fence six. Mentally, if it does go wrong, it’s not far back to the stables! So if you’re going to walk the course earlier on in the day and watch some rounds on Saturday, I’d stay near fence five. The thing we have about Burghley, it’s an accumulative thing, isn’t it? So somebody might have an issue later on around the course, but it will be down to an accumulation of knocks; you’re taking out of that bucket, and as a rider you’re trying to make sure that you put some goodness back into that bucket where you can. It’s not necessarily a course that you ride off your watch, you’ve got to ride off what you feel.”

🇬🇧 Alex Bragg – Quindiva – 35.1 – 42nd

Alex Bragg and Quindiva. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Alex’s plan is to keep his eyes firmly between the flags and not get distracted by the beauty of the estate.

“It’s amazing. I mean, he [Derek di Grazia] does build some amazing courses with the help of the team, and Burghley is just stunning, so I’m going to try and concentrate and not just enjoy the scenery on the way around. It looks magnificent so let’s see let’s see where we are on Sunday.”

🇮🇪 Declan Cullen – Seavaghan Ash – 35.2 – 43rd

Declan Cullen and Seavaghan Ash. Photo by Eventing Nation.

Declan’s feeling a little peaky.

“There’s no cameras on me, but I am pale. Yeah, it’s big. It’s what we expected. Hopefully my horse is pretty good. He’s generally been a very honest soul. My wife actually backed him and broke him while she was expecting our child. He’s as quiet as a lamb; he’s honest and straight but it’s Burghley, anything could happen here. My lack of experience at this level, plenty of experience at four star, but this is when I step up.”

🇬🇧 Libby Seed – Heartbreaker Star Quality – 36.1 – 46th

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

Libby tells it as it is.

“It’s big isn’t it?!”

🇬🇧 Richard Jones – Alfies Clover – 36.3 – 47th

Richard Jones and Alfies Clover. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

This will be Alfies Clover’s last ever 5*, sniff. What a great ambassador for the sport this guy has been throughout his long career and what a joy it is to watch him hunting around the biggest cross country courses in the world, which we get to do one final time. Here’s what Richard thinks of those notorious triple brushes at the Leaf Pit.

“I don’t think dressage will be too relevant, in fact, I’d say dressage will be probably not relevant. The brushes off the Leaf Pit look bigger than anything I’ve ever seen in a five-star, any five-star I’ve ever done, nearly verging on unjumpable. I’m sure on Saturday they will be jumped, but not by many, not the direct way, well.”

Some riders have requested a triple brush to be put into the warm up — in preparation for the enormous ones at the bottom of the Leaf Pit.

“I think if you’re doing your homework in the warm up, it’s probably too late. I certainly won’t be getting stressed jumping in the warm up, there’s enough to jump out there.”

🇬🇧 Emma Hyslop-Webb – Jeweetwel – 37.7 – 52nd

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Emma’s very sensibly, and rightly, leaving her ego in the start box as she sets out on her round.

“It’s a very well built course, I thought. With him only being ten, there will be a couple of places that I’ll go long and it will be very much riding one of those rounds for the horse, not for my pride, you know, go straight everywhere, and I’m a warrior, and all that. It will be very much a round for the horse.”

On that sage note, all that’s left to say is kick on and go eventing!

Defender Burghley: [Website] [Entries] [Timing & Scoring] [Burghley TV] [Tickets] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of Defender Burghley is proudly presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for every horse. Click here to learn more about KPP.

Ros Canter and Izilot DHI streaked ahead of the pack yesterday. Will they be caught today? Photo by Hannah Cole Photography.

We’re back at Burghley for the second day’s dressage and I’ll be bringing you every single step from between the white boards as the first phase leaderboard is ironed out, that is before it’s inevitably all change once more when tomorrow’s cross country course has its say on the competition.

For now though, we’re keeping our ears firmed pricked on the Main Arena and we sure are in for a treat today as the remaining competitors go all in to get their nose ahead of yesterday’s, almost record-breaking, leading score put down by Ros Canter and Pau winner Izilot DHI. They’re streaks ahead on 19.9 – only the second ever sub-20 dressage score at Burghley and a career-best at the level for Ros. But they’re not home and dry for there are a number of combinations to come who’ll fancy their chances of making their mark on the leaderboard, not least last year’s record-breakers (with a score of 18.7), and last to go today, Tim Price and Vitali. The riders will have to be brave and bold if they want to challenge for the top, which means we’re in for an especially exciting day of dressage.

Here’s a look at the top 3 as things stand:

1️⃣ Ros Canter and Izilot DHI on a score of 19.9.
2️⃣ Two-time Burghley winner Pippa Funnell and MCS Maverick on a score of 28.3.
3️⃣ Just 0.3 behind his mentor, Pippa, is Tom Jackson with Capels Hollow Drift on a score of 28.6.

Click here for the full scoreboard.

Missed out yesterday? Don’t fret.

▶️ Re-live every step of every test in our live blog.
▶️ Read Tilly’s classic round-up reports here: [Morning] [Afternoon]

Emily King and Valmy Biats will kick off today’s action at 9:30am local time / 10:30am CET / 5:30am ET.

🇺🇲 If you’re following the US camp, here’s what you need to know:

📍 Yesterday Jennie Brannigan got things underway for the Americans with FE Lifestyle, putting down a score of 34.7 which saw them in 15th place overnight.

📍 Mia Farley and OTTB Phelps have also completed their first phase, scoring 33.7 which put them in 13th place.

Today the rest of the US contingent will have their turn up the center line:

📍Cosby Green and Copper Beach are second up the center line this morning; they’ll come into the ring at 4:37am ET.

📍Hannah Sue Hollberg and Capitol H I M are over in England for the first time; they enter the Burghley Main Arena at 6:02am ET.

📍Andrew McConnon and Wakita 54 will wrap the dressage up for the US at 9:30am ET.

I could go through the field and pick out combinations of note but basically it’s all of them, so here’s the full list of ride times for your perusal.

If you just can’t get enough info about this year’s competitors, then you’re in need of EN’s epic Form Guide, which you’ll find right here.

Should your appetite for all things Burghley be as insatiable as ours, I’ve got good news for you – we’ve got your back with live blogs following every single step the runners and riders take in all three phases as well as our classic detailed reports of all the action each day. Keep eyes on for our cross country course preview and Riders React post, in which we’ll be wrangling the riders and giving you the low-down on what they think of the fences they’ll be facing when they leave the start box. Keep it locked on to EN and go eventing vicariously at Burghley via all our event coverage. As if that isn’t enough, we’ve got great IG content happening too @goeventing.

I’ll be bringing you live updates from the Main Arena throughout the day, so keep this page refreshed, and watch this space. 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.

Settle in and go eventing!

Defender Burghley: [Website] [Entries] [Timing & Scoring] [Burghley TV] [Tickets] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of Defender Burghley is proudly presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for every horse. Click here to learn more about KPP.

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10:57am ET

The first phase is done and dusted and we have a clubhouse leaderboard as we head into tomorrow’s cross country. Here’s a quick look:

1️⃣ Heading up the chasing pack, holding onto her lead almost right from the very start of proceedings, Britain’s Ros Canter and Izilot DHI are in the lead on a score of 19.9.
2️⃣ 2.1 points behind herself is Ros Canter and her second ride Lordships Graffalo on 22.
3️⃣ And just 0.3 behind, rounding out the top three as things stand, is New Zealand’s Tim Price with Vitali on 22.3.

Click here for the full scoreboard.

A reminder that the scores that came in directly after each test were provisional, so I’ve updated them below.

And so onto tomorrow, the best day, cross country day. I’ll be back with live updates of every single second out on course, so set your reminders for 11am local time / 12 noon CET / 6am ET and come along for the ride.

We’ll have a round-up of all that went down between the white boards today for you very soon – eyes on EN.

In the meantime, click here for all the Burghley content you can handle.

Until tomorrow ENers, go eventing!

Defender Burghley: [Website] [Entries] [Timing & Scoring] [Burghley TV] [Tickets] [EN’s Coverage]

EN’s coverage of Defender Burghley is proudly presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for every horse. Click here to learn more about KPP.

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🇳🇿 Tim Price and Vitali

10:47am ET

🌠 We’re finishing up with a combination which have the potential to head straight to the top of the leaderboard. They put down a record-breaking 18.7 at Burghley last year, the first sub-20 dressage score in the history of the event. Vitali has finished in the top-10 in all five of his 5* starts, including taking third place here in 2022 and fourth last season. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

This is it, our final competitor in the first phase at Defender Burghley 2024.

Vitali was characteristically looky and fresh at the horse inspection on Wednesday and showed a great reinback on the jog strip. He’s often flighty on the first day though, Tim’ll have all that excitement contained by now.

Hold your breath…

They are perfectly square in the first halt and IT’S A 10! What a start.

Ooo, Vitali’s got his game face on and there’s a 9 for a very strong extended trot, and more 9s coming in for the lateral work. Vitali is characteristically soft and supple, so confident and flashy, and Tim is riding for every single fraction of a mark.

The reinback is a little stiff, for this horse, and the scores drop to 7s and a 7.5. They go into walk and Vitali is very relaxed and rhythmical as he strides across the diagonal. The pirouettes are accurate and clean and the second scores an 8. There’s a tiny bit of anticipation in the transition when Vitali wonders why they’re going into trot and not canter, but Tim’s totally on it.

They strike off into canter in the right place and Tim storms down the side of the ring in extended for two 8s. Everything is accurate and clean, expressive and honest. What a lovely picture this test is, so secure and easy looking.

The scores for the canter work are mainly in the 7s with a smattering of 8s and they’re trending for a podium place, but not for the top. The final halt is excellent for a 9 and two 8s and the harmony marks are two 9s and an 8.

A lovely end to what has been a fabulous two days of dressage. We’ve seen such quality throughout the field and have really been treated to the highest class of horse and rider competitors.

Into third for Tim and Vitali.

Tim Price and Vitali score 22.3.

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10:39am ET

🇬🇧 Harry Meade and Annaghmore Valoner

💍 Harry’s back and here’s another fun Harry fact – he proposed to his wife during a Badminton course walk. He brings this mare forward for her 5* debut. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

We’re down to our penultimate competitor of this year’s Burghley dressage phase.

Harry’s not quite on the center line as he comes into the ring but the halt is very square for an 8.5. The mare looks to be very elegant and rangy and the scores are very high at the beginning of this test, showing the rhythm and balance that’s a feature of her trot work. The extended is lovely and strong and really shows her scope. What a start for this pair.

The halt at C isn’t quite right but the reinback is accurate and scores two 7s and a 7.5. The mare is very relaxed in the walk, swinging through her back and striding forward – it’s rewarded with two 8s. The pirouette is a little big but is accurate enough for two 7.5s. The second on is a little sticky but they go back into a beautiful trot and the scores go straight back up to 7.5s and 8s.

Harry’s very brave in the extended canter and scores two 8s and it’s clear that this horse is just as impressive in canter as she is in trot. The changes are clean and solid and Harry really uses all of his experience to help this young talent to manage them. They’re sure to be excellent as her career progresses though. There’s so much potential on show from this mare and a very exciting prospect for the future for Harry. Lots to like here and some very nice highlights. She’s a beautiful mover and is already confident and happy in her work. The best of Harry’s three rides and another sub-30 score coming in; we really have been treated to such high quality dressage at Burghley this year.

Harry Meade and Annaghmore Valoner score 27.8.

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10:32am ET

🇬🇧 Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo

✨ Well, what can we say about ‘Walter’? Runner-up in his first 5*, winner of his second, finished on his dressage at the World Championships to be pipped to the podium because he was too fast on the cross country, Olympic team gold medalist… Ros heralds this gelding as equally good in all three phases, a triple threat if you will. And based on his form, she’s not wrong. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Walter is so confident as he comes straight up the center line. He’s clearly got absolute faith in Ros. They get off to a great start with a 9 and an 8 for the first halt. He’s soft and listening as he works around the ring in trot. There’s a lovely expression on his face and he really shows his scope in the extended for 8s across the board. There’s another 9 for the shoulder in and the scores are predominantly in the 8s for the trot work.

The halt is perfectly square for two 9s, although the first step back isn’t on the diagonal and there’s a tiny bit of resistance which drops the marks slightly. They move off into walk and Walter is still very relaxed and super happy in his work. Carl claims the first pirouette is one of the nicest we’ve seen and it scores a massive 9. The second scores two 8s and a 7.5. They really were clean and accurate.

They move into the canter section of the test and Ros straightens up for the extended and then pushes and is rewarded with two 8s. Walter is so comfortable in his work and balanced and the changes are established and clean. Ros is really taking her time in this test and showing Walter off and he’s responding and trying very hard for his rider. It’s so easy to watch Ros and Walter work together.

The final halt is off the center line but it’s perfectly square and scores a 10. What an end to a brilliant test. There’s two 9s and an 9.5 for the harmony marks and a huge cheer from an appreciative crowd. Ros waves and Walter takes it all in. Ros asks the crowd to settle for the next horse coming in, which is why we love Ros.

Into second for Ros and Walter, just behind Ros and Isaac.

Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo score 22.

‘Walter’ looked every bit the total pro at the horse inspection on Wednesday and is surely one of the hot favorites to take the title this week.

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10:24am ET

🇬🇧 Pippa Funnell and Majas Hope

👑 Eventing queen Pippa’s back with her second ride, Majas Hope, her stalwart 5* campaigner who’s got eight top-level runs under his belt, include three top-10 finishes. Photo by Abby Powell.

Today’s Test:

Pippa’s game face on as she halts for the start of her test. They stop dead square and get two 8s and a 7.5. Majas Hope strides off in trot and really shows his power and balance. He’s nicely supple in the lateral work and there are lots of 7s and 7.5s coming in so far.

The halt at C scores an 8 and two 7.5s but the reinback is a little stick and the marks dip a bit. Carl comments that the walk doesn’t have enough purpose for the big marks, but it’s relaxed and the shorter strides make the pirouettes a bit easier to navigate. Pippa’s riding for every single mark she can get and really is giving a masterclass of riding the horse that’s underneath you and using her ringcraft and experience to present a very solid test.

They get a good strike off into canter and the first change is very expressive for two 7.5s and a 7 – that’s worth double. The changes on the serpentine aren’t quite as good. Pippa looks happy as she halts square and puts another 8 on the board, and there’s an 8 in the harmony mark too. This has been an example of riding to make it happen and Pippa really has shown us all how to work with the horse you’ve got to produce the best result you can. Another sub-30 score on the way.

Pippa Funnell and Majas Hope score 29.6.

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10:17am ET

🇬🇧 Matthew Heath and Askari

🚔 Askari may have a serious kinda name (it means ‘police’ in Swahili), but in the barn Muffin’s all sweetness 🧁 He made his 5* debut at Burghley last year and completed in 39th 🦁 Matt also had his first top-level start at Burghley, back in 2013, with fan-fave The Lion – together they competed here six times. Before that, Matt was a mounted steward at the event. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

This sweet guy is just lovely to look at, with his big white face and kind eye, and seriously, ‘Muffin’ as a barn name? OMG.

Matt and Muffin come confidently up the center line although they step into the halt a bit. They set off into a nice bouncy trot and Muffin looks to be soft and rideable. The extended is very nice; a great overtrack and push from behind is rewarded with an 8.5 from one judge. This is really shaping up to be a very secure test thus far.

The halt at C is very square and is rewarded with an 8, 7.5 and 7 and the reinback is accurate for 7.5s across the board. Muffin stays relaxed throughout the walk and is clearly trying very hard for Matt. They manage the first pirouette very cleanly although they lose the rhythm slightly in the second one. There’s the opportunity to show off Muffin’s lovely trot for a hot minute before the canter transition.

The canter is rangy which makes things a bit more difficult in the ring, although it’ll come in handy tomorrow out on course. The first change is solid for 7s across the board but the second is late and scores two 4s and a 5, which is an expensive mistake. The next one is better though and the third scores 6.5s across the board. The final halt is very brief and Muffin shows just how relaxed he is in the ring as he walks out on a long rein.

He gets a big clap for a lovely job. Muffin was rideable throughout and looked to be trying very hard for Matt.

Matthew Heath and Askari score 31.9.

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10:09am ET

🇫🇷 Gaspard Maksud and Zaragoza II

One of the great characters of the eventing circuit, Gaspard comes to Burghley with his World and European Championships ride, the very exciting mare Zaragoza. Sixth individually at Pratoni, her 5* debut at Pau last season didn’t go to plan, so Gaspard will be looking to put that right this week. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Getting things underway for the final session is French character Gaspard with his lovely mare Zaragoza.

King of dressage Carl Hester is back in the commentary box for the final six competitors.

Gaspard doesn’t put a hoof outside the mown strip as he comes up the center line and the mare looks to be very relaxed as she moves off in trot. The extended is very expressive and a highlight for this horse; it’s rewarded with 8s across the board. There’s lots of suppleness and swing in show in the early trot work and plenty of very good marks coming in.

The halt at C scores two 8s and the reinback is very sound for an 8 and two 7.5s. They move off into walk and Zaragoza stays relaxed throughout for two 8s in the scores. They navigate the pirouettes well but then there’s anticipation in the trot transition and Zaragoza goes into canter momentarily. Gaspard gets her straight back though and they go into canter proper smoothly. The extended is bold and scores an 8 and two 7.5s.

There’s a very good rhythm in the canter work and more 8s coming in. The first change is clean as are both of the changes on the serpentine. The mare is obviously confident although there is a very slight moment of tension in her back just before the change which holds her back from the very top marks.

Gaspard is very pleased as he halts at the end and it’s a superb finish for them with a 9 and two 8s for the final halt. What a lovely test this has been, very confident, very secure and another sub-30 score coming in.

Gaspard Maksud and Zaragoza II score 26.8.

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We’re heading into a short break now. Back in just over 15 minutes, at 10:09am ET when we’ll wrap up the dressage phase at Defender Burghley 2024.

EN’s coverage of Defender Burghley is proudly presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for every horse. Click here to learn more about KPP.

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9:45am ET

🇮🇪 Susie Berry and Wellfields Lincoln

🍀 Hoping for the luck of the Irish, Susie brings ‘Slinky’ forward for his 5* debut following a solid performance in Paris. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

We’ll be heading into the final break after Susie’s test.

‘Slinky’ had a big spook at the sand strip during the first horse inspection on Wednesday, like, why’s the beach here, mom? He looks happier to be on the grass today.

Susie looks incredibly serious as she halts at the start of her test, there’s a tiny step back. They get into a very balanced trot and the horse looks very confident as he strides across the ring for his extended – that’s surely a highlight for this horse; it scores two 7.5s and a 7. Slinky is working very hard and seems happy in his work as he makes his way round the Main Arena.

The halt at C is great and scores two 8s but the reinback is a little untidy at the end and scores a 5.5, 6.5 and 7. They head into walk and it’s nice and relaxed but could have more overtrack for the big marks. They navigate the pirouettes neatly and score an 8 for the first one. Very nice.

The horse’s head comes up in the canter transition which’ll be a bit costly, but Susie pushes in the extended and obviously has a lot of confidence in her horse. The lateral work is soft and accurate and then then first change scores an 8 and two 7.5s – that’s worth double marks. This guy is very confident and well within himself in this difficult test, but unfortunately they miss the final change and score 4s across the board – another one that’s double marked. That’s a real shame in what’s been a really solid and confident test. What an exciting horse this is for the future and there’s for sure much more to come in this phase for him as his career progresses.

Susie Berry and Wellfields Lincoln score 31.5.

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9:37am ET

🇯🇵 Ryuzo Kitajima and Feroza Nieuwmoed

🔥 Fresh from picking up an historic team bronze for Japan in Paris, Ryuzo brings Feroza Nieuwmoed to Burghley for a second 5* start, after finishing 15th at Pau on his debut at the level. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Feroza Nieuwmoed is a bit looky as he makes his way around the ring whilst waiting for the bell. Ryuzo is super experienced though and uses his time to settle the horse before coming up the center line.

There’s a slight wobble over the mown strip but they finish up in a nice halt and get their test going with two 7.5s and a 7. This horse really has a lovely trot, it’s balanced and supple and looks very rideable. Everything looks very soft and scores so far are in the 7s on the whole.

The halt’s not square but the reinback is clean and accurate for two 7.5s and a 7. They go into walk and the horse’s head comes up slightly for a look round, but Ryuzo sits quiet and gets things back together. They navigate the pirouettes really nicely and set back off into trot before making a clean canter transition.

Ryuzo obviously doesn’t feel he can really push for the top marks in the extended canter, but it’s straight and balanced and scores 7s across the board. The first change is clean for three 6.5s and the next is also sound. The second one on the serpentine isn’t scored as well and it’s a similar story for the final one.

They finish up with a big round of applause and a big pat for Feroza Nieuwmoed stretches right down. He has a little trot out of the arena. There’s a bit of a shrug from Ryuzo who clearly feels he left a few marks out there, but overall this was a very solid test and a good start to their Burghley.

Ryuzo Kitajima and Feroza Nieuwmoed score 33.

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9:30am ET

🇺🇲 Andew McConnon and Wakita 54

🤩 Andrew’s no stranger to the other side of the pond, having spent time in England working for William Fox-Pitt. He’s also worked with Pippa Funnell and her husband, William, at The Billy Stud. This mare made her 5* debut at Kentucky in the spring and finished top-20. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Andrew’s smiling as he halts on the center line to start his test, clearly enjoying his time at Burghley. Wakita moves off beautifully into a balanced trot and, although there could be a little more softness in the lateral work for the big scores, Andrew’s riding everything accurately and bringing out the best in his horse.

The reinback is a little sticky and the scores drop down to 5s and 5.5 but the walk across the ring is very good; it’s soft and relaxed and is rewarded with two 7s. There’s a little tension in the pirouettes and Wakita’s head comes up but they get back into trot and the horse seems happier.

They get a smooth transition into canter and Andrew pushes on for the extended and there’s a 7 in the scores for that. This horse clearly doesn’t find this phase easy but they’re working well as a partnership. Unfortunately they changes aren’t so established and the first is quite expensive. The others are better though.

Andrew’s still smiling as he halts at the end of his test. Overall this has really showed a partnership working through the movements together and showing confidence in one another. Onto cross country for them.

Andew McConnon and Wakita 54 score 40.4.

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9:22am ET

🇫🇷 Nicolas Touzaint and Absolut Gold HDZ

🥈 Part of the silver medal winning team at his home games in Paris (to complete the set – he won team gold in Athens and team bronze in Tokyo), Nicolas was the first French rider to win Badminton in 2008. The gelding’s making his 5* debut, but he comes to Burghley with Olympic, World and European Championship experience under his cinch. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

They come dead straight up the center line and halt perfectly square for 8s across the board. William thought it deserved better, but it’s a great start. This is such a classy, elegant horse and Nicolas is really able to show that off in the trot work. The horse is in a lovely outline and is clearly soft and supple – a smattering of 8s coming in for the early part of the test.

The halt at C gets an 8 and a 9 and the reinback is clean and accurate for an 8 and two 7.5s. There’s more relaxation on show in the extended walk and Absolut Gold looks very confident and happy. They navigate the pirouettes very neatly, very solid for 7s and 7.5s on the whole. The transition to trot is light and smooth and scores two 8s.

There are so many highlights in this test which is showing a horse that’s very established in his work and confident in his rider; they really are working as a team and producing a very clear and accurate test. The first two changes come up spot on and there’s an 8 in the scores. The final change is very good and scores an 8, 7.5 and 6.5 – that’s worth double, as is the first change in the test. The final halt is solid and Nicolas is clearly super happy with his horse, lots of pats going on.

A great start to their Burghley with two 8s and and 8.5 for the harmony mark really showing what a confident and harmonious picture this pair have made in the Main Arena. A superb score for them coming in.

Nicolas Touzaint and Absolut Gold HDZ score 26.1.

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9:15am ET

🇬🇧 Gemma Stevens and Chilli Knight

🧬 Bicton 5* winner, Chilli Knight’s sire is the former William Fox-Pitt 5* ride Chilli Morning, who was the first stallion to win a European top-level event when he became Badminton champ in 2015. He’s still the only stallion to have won here 🧱 Gemma also competes on the international 5* show jumping circuit. This brave lady took on the big red wall in the Puissance class at London International in December. She’s also braved the enormous Hickstead bank when competing in the derby there. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Here for redemption after an unlucky 15 penalties out on cross country at Badminton kept them from taking the title, Gemma and ‘Alfie’ are in it to win it.

It’s game face on for Gemma as she comes into the ring and gets her Burghley underway with an 8, 7.5 and 7 for the first halt. Alfie’s such a good looking horse and really shows off his supple body and self-carriage in the early trot work. He’s clearly trying very hard for Gemma and looks to be confident in his work. He’s working in a good outline and has a happy expression on his face.

The halt at C is excellent for two 8s and the reinback is clean for two 7s. They move off into walk and Alfie stays relaxed and steps out nicely for 7s across the board. The first pirouette is clean and tidy, as is the second. The half-pass in trot is very nice and the transition to canter is smooth.

There’s an 8 in the scores for a strong extended canter and we get the impression that Gemma’s riding for every single mark and Alfie’s doing his best to work with her. He’s not the flashiest horse we’ll see in the ring but he’s very confident. Unfortunately the one of the changes is late and scores 4s across the board but the final one scores an 8. The final halt is good enough for two 7s and a 7.5.

Gemma looks pleased with her boy and he looks very happy with his efforts as he walks out of the ring. They were a real picture of a partnership between horse and rider and have been rewarded with a sub-30 score. A job very nicely done.

Gemma Stevens and Chilli Knight score 29.7.

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9:07am ET

🇬🇧 Wills Oakden and A Class Cooley

👚 Wills loves to do the laundry and is in total charge of the washing machine at home 🥒 He also enjoys pickleball (sounds delicious). This pair are looking for their first 5* completion here at Burghley but Wills’ is no stranger to great finishes at the top level – he was 12th at Badminton in the spring.

Today’s Test:

‘Felix’ looked total class at the horse inspection on Wednesday and he’s sure looks stunning today in the Burghley sunshine.

They get off to a great start with a square halt although the immobility isn’t quite there – two 8s and a 6.5 to get them going. They set off into a lovely, rhythmical trot and looks to be very relaxed and happy as he strides across the ring in extended. He’s supple and secure in his carriage and there’s nice expression in his lateral work.

The halt at C isn’t square behind and the reinback is a bit crooked – 6s across the board for that. They move into walk and Felix really shows his relaxation. It’s not the biggest of walks though and scores 6s and a 7. There’s a little tension bubbling under in the pirouette and Felix is blowing a bit as he trots back before the canter transition.

They get a smooth transition but the relaxation’s not quite there in the same way it was earlier in the test. The first change is solid for 7.5s across the board. The change on the center line happened but is a little extravagant and scores a 5, 5.5 and 6 but he next one is much better for two 7s. There’s definitely a bit more tension creeping in as he nears the end of his test, but overall this has been a very solid test and Felix is obviously very happy and secure in his work.

There’s a cheer from the Wills fanclub in the stands as he scores a PB at the level. A great start to their Burghley.

Wills Oakden and A Class Cooley score 30.6.

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9am ET

🇳🇿 Monica Spencer and Artist

🎨 Artist sure does take a pretty picture 🏇 ‘Max’ is racing-trained but didn’t actually race – he switched sides early on. Monica has had him since he was a four-year-old after seeing him at his first show and promptly buying him. This pair were seventh at Maryland last year and seventh at Kentucky in the spring. Monica will be hoping for another great placing over on the other side of the pond. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Today’s Test:

Getting things back underway following the lunch/breakfast break, Monica and ‘Max’ are ready to do their thang. Six-time Burghley winner William Fox-Pitt is in the commentary box this afternoon.

They come up the center line super straight but unfortunately the halt isn’t quite on the line, although it’s square and so it rewarded with an 8 and two 7s. Max really is a smart horse, as noted by William, who quite fancies a go on him himself. Lots of marks coming in at the beginning of their test – 8s and 7.5s in abundance – really showing just how relaxed and supple Max is in his trot work and what a great picture we’re seeing as they trot round the ring.

The score three 8s for the halt at C and there’s another 8 in the marks for the reinback. The walk is soft and swinging and there’s an 8 and a 7.5 in the marks for the change of rein. The pirouettes are very neat and tidy and they make a super transition into trot for two 8s.

They strike off into an equally impressive canter and Monica is brave in the extended with a 9 coming in as her reward. This really is shaping up to be a super confident, smart test. The first change is solid but then, oh no, the bell rings for an error of course. Monica shakes her head as she comes back round for the serpentine. She gets right back on it though and the next change is excellent with an 8 in the scores. What a picture of harmony this pair are making in the Main Arena, a real pleasure to watch.

There’s a 10 for the final halt!

Monica looks a little upset with herself for going the wrong way, but this test was truly wonderful overall. Such a shame they lost a couple of marks there but what a performance and into joint third they go.

Monica Spencer and Artist score 24.4.

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We’re heading into the lunch break now / breakfast if you’re over in the US.

Here’s a look at how things stand after a bit of a shake up of the leaderboard after this morning’s competition:

1️⃣ Holding onto her first place from yesterday is Ros Canter with Izilot DHI on a score of 19.9.
2️⃣ They were first to go today and slotted straight into second, Emily King and Valmy Biats are on a score of 24.1.
3️⃣ And rounding out the top three as things stand, is Oliver Townend with Cooley Rosalent on 24.4.

Click here for the full scoreboard.

Just a reminder that the scores directly following each test are provisional. I’ve updated the ones from this morning below.

Back in just under 90 minutes, at 9am ET.

🇺🇸 We’ll see the last of the US competitors after the break when Andew McConnon and Wakita 54 enter the ring at 9:30am.

EN’s coverage of Defender Burghley is proudly presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for every horse. Click here to learn more about KPP.

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7:26am ET

🇬🇧 Rose Nesbitt and EG Michealangelo

🌹 Rose in rose. She says ‘Jack’ is a special lad who just loves the big events where he can show off 🚢 Also, Jack and Rose. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

We’ll be heading into the lunch/breakfast break after Rose’s test.

Our final pair of the mornin g come up the center line and ‘Jack’ looks very impressive as he trots round the ring. He’s so powerful and supple and is obviously really listening to Rose. Karen in the commentary box agrees and notes the horse’s great presence in the ring. There are lots of 7s and 7.5s coming in for the early trot work and an 8 for the extended.

The halt at C isn’t square but the reinback is clean although they lose a couple of marks for lack of straightness. They move off into walk and Jack shows his relaxation and lovely long stride across the diagonal and scores an 8 and an 8.5 for the change of rein. The pirouette is a bit sticky but the second one is better.

They strike off into canter and Jack still seems to be super rideable. This pair really are working in harmony. They catch the board in the extended but that doesn’t bother Jack at all. The first two changes are beautiful, they’re clearly established and Jack is very comfortable and confident in his work. This is a very pleasant watch thus far. The final two changes are equally accurate. There are a couple of walk steps into the final halt but it’s brilliantly square for an 8 from the judge at C.

Rose looks delighted and so she should be. Jack’s been relaxed throughout and really listened to her. What a lovely pair they make. A solid clear round and a very good start to their Burghley.

Rose Nesbitt and EG Michealangelo score 30.9.

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7:19am ET

🇳🇿 Jesse Campbell and Cooley Lafitte

⚡ When he was 21, Jesse was one of nine event riders selected for the New Zealand Eventing High Performance Squad to be based in the UK. He was the youngest rider selected. Mark Todd was also on the squad 🤩 He trained with Mark Todd and worked for Andrew Nicholson. This pair finished 15th at Badminton in the spring. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Jesse’s at Burghley for the first time after making his Badminton debut in the spring. He’s wearing purple and white ribbons in honor of his wife, Georgie, who’s surely right there riding with him.

They come up the center line and don’t have the start he’d have hoped but he pushes forward and they set off into a nicely balanced trot. Unfortunately there’s a break into canter as they come along the diagonal and it’s clear that Cooley Lafitte’s feeling the atmosphere.

The halt at C isn’t quite immobile and the reinback’s a little sticky. The tension continues in the walk, which is a bit sticky, and Jesse uses his outside hand (which the judges can’t see) to give him a little pat. The pirouettes are tentative but Jesse makes them happen.

They go back into trot and we can see that this horse really does have the potential for lovely movement if it wasn’t for the tension bubbling away. He anticipates the canter transition but seems to settle a bit once he gets there and the scores go up accordingly. Jesse’s really riding so sympathetically and things are coming together for the pair as this test goes on. The flying changes show up the tension though. The final one doesn’t happen and Jesse brings the horse back to trot before going back into canter and asking again. That was really well ridden.

He comes back round to the center line and looks disappointed, but he’s really ridden brilliantly in tricky circumstances with an excited horse. In fact, there was a whole lot of potential on show from Cooley Lafitte, but the big Burghley atmosphere was a little much this morning.

Jesse Campbell and Cooley Lafitte score 41.1.

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7:11am ET

🇮🇪 Padraig McCarthy and Lady Ophelia

⭐ Lady Ophelia’s making her 5* debut at Burghley having been brought up through the levels by Padraig, racking up a bunch of cross country clears along the way. The first phase is a little more unpredictable with scores from the mid-30s to the mid-40s – what’ll it be in the Burghley Main Arena?

Today’s Test:

There’s a little wiggle up the center line and the halt’s slightly off the mown strip, but this mare really does look beautiful and elegant as she sets off in trot around the ring. Everything’s a little conservative in the early part of their test, but accurate and Lady Ophelia’s working nicely for Padraig.

The halt at C isn’t quite square behind and the reinback isn’t quite straight – 6.5s and 6s for those two movements. They go into walk and it’s much of the same, rhythmical and relaxed but not the big movements we see for the top marks. The pirouettes are accurate and they move into the short trot section before the canter, navigating the lateral work smoothly.

They go into canter and Lady Ophelia decides she can’t wait for a bathroom break, but it doesn’t affect her rhythm. Padraig’s riding for every mark in this test, really showing off the horse he has. The changes on the serpentine are very established and score in the 7s. They come back around to the center line in a nicely balanced half circle and halt square for two 7s and a 7.5. Overall this has been a sweet test and a nice picture of a horse trying hard for her rider and happy in her work.

Padraig McCarthy and Lady Ophelia score 33.9.

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7:04am ET

🇨🇭 Nadja Minder and Toblerone

🍫 Not only does this tasty gelding have a yummy show name, but his stable name is a real treat too – I mean, who doesn’t want a little ‘Schoggeli’ (translation: chocolate) in the barn? 🪜 This pair have been together since Young Riders; they’ve been to World and European championships, 5*s and were traveling reserves for the Swiss Olympic team. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Nadja’s been based with Badminton and Burghley winner Piggy March in preparation for this week, not a bad call. They sure look pro as they come up the center line into an excellent square halt for two 8s and a 7. They set off into trot and really do create a lovely picture. Toblerone is soft and really listening to Nadja and there are lots of 6.5s and 7s coming in for them.

The halt at C is very good and rewarded with to 8s and a 7.5. There’s another 8 for the reinback. They set out into a very relaxed walk. Everything’s quiet and accurate and they navigate the pirouettes well with 7s in the scores for the first and an 8 and a 7.5 for the second, a great job by this pair.

They get a smooth transition into canter and Toblerone looks to be rideable and happy in his work. This pair’s partnership is clear for all to see as they canter round the Main Arena at Burghley. There’s an 8 in the scores for the second change and 7s for the others. Toblerone’s very comfortable in what’s being asked of him and is a picture of confidence in these difficult movements.

Nadja looks delighted at the end of that test and Toblerone gets huge pats. He has a good scratch on his knee before walking out of the ring and looking round as the crowd as Nadja keeps the pats going. Overall this was a lovely picture of a horse and rider working in harmony, total trust and respect flowing between the two. Lovely work.

Nadja Minder and Toblerone score 31.

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6:56am ET

🇳🇿 Lauren Innes and Global Fision M

🧮 In her other life Lauren’s a full-time accountant – ‘Flipper’, Lauren’s only upper-level horse, spends his days in the field while Lauren’s at work ⏩ You may think you’ve seen Lauren down as a British rider in the past, and you’d be right – last season, she swapped nationality, taking on her father’s Kiwi status. 👑 Regardless, she dressed for the occasion at the Coronation edition of Badminton last year. Photo by Eventing Nation.

Today’s Test:

‘Flipper’ was super spicy at the horse inspection on Wednesday, obviously feeling every bit of the Burghley atmosphere. Let’s hope he’s settled ready for today. He sure looks beautiful as he shines in the sunshine this morning.

Flipper’s blowing a bit as he comes up the center line and trips into the first halt. He moves off nicely for Lauren though and is in a nice rhythm at the start of the trot work. He’s listening to Lauren and trying hard for her but he’s clearly excited. The extended trot is very nice and rewarded with two 7s. There’s a little fussiness in the mouth in the lateral movements but overall it’s good enough for 6s and 6.5s.

Flipper leaves a hind leg in the halt at C but the reinback is accurate and scores two 6.5s and a 7. They set off into walk and manage the long diagonal but there’s anticipation at the end and a little jiggy jog is under the surface. The pirouettes are tricky and there’s some head shaking going on which turns into a difficult time for Lauren as they canter the trot work; that’s so expensive with a 1 and a 2 in the marks for the half-pass. They go into canter proper and he seems happier but Lauren’s got a job on her hands. She’s really riding brilliantly and showing that she knows this horse inside out.

The excitement continues to brew as the test comes into the final stages but Lauren holds everything together. She asks the crowd not to clap as she halts for the end of the test. She walks out on a long rein and really, for how excited Flipper is, this test had some very nice moments. This is a pair who are in it to win it in the cross country. A tricky morning but actually, Lauren salvaged every mark she could and Flipper did try hard for her.

Lauren Innes and Global Fision M score 42.2.

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6:49am ET

🇱🇹 Aistis Vitkauskas and Commander VG

🧶 Aistis goes cross country in a hat silk knitted by his grandma. Commander VG is making his tenth 5* start this week. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Kicking things back off is Lithuania’s Aistis and his sweet gelding Commander VG. US eventing star Karen O’Connor’s in the commentary box for this session.

Commander VG got really quite hot in the Main Arena at Badminton so let’s hope that he’s feeling a bit more settled this morning. He has a little look round in the halt but he’s quickly got his mind in the game as they set off into trot. He looks rideable and there’s a real push from behind in the extended trot. There’s a bit of tail swishing going on but he seems to be soft and is trying really hard for Aistis.

The immobility is very tentative in the halt and the reinback is a bit rushed for 6s across the board. They set off into a relaxed enough walk and score two 7s for the change of rein. There’s a slight stutter in the first pirouette and the second is a little sticky and scores two 4.5s and a 5.

They get a clean canter transition and Aistis is brave in the extended for 7s in the scores. This really is a very nicely settled test for this horse thus far, although a bit of excitement comes out in the first change and the second is late behind. But Aistis is making things happen and Commander VG is staying with him on the whole. They overshoot the center line for the final halt but Aistis looks very pleased with his horse’s efforts.

Overall this pair have done a good job in a tricky phase for them. They’ll very much be looking forward to tomorrow.

Aistis Vitkauskas and Commander VG score 40.8.

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I informed you thusly that we were in for a big day of dressage; it’s not even lunch yet and we’ve seen some cracking sport. We’re heading into a short break now. Back in just over 15 minutes, at 6:49am ET.

EN’s coverage of Defender Burghley is proudly presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for every horse. Click here to learn more about KPP.

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6:24am ET

🇳🇿 Jonelle Price and Grappa Nera

🍇 Jonelle’s been third, fourth and fifth at Burghley, will Pau winner ‘Grape’ take her to the top this time around? Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

We’ll be heading into a break after Jonelle’s test.

There’s not a hoof outside the mown strip as they come up the center line although ‘Grape’ rested her hind leg in the halt which proves to be expensive. Jonelle’s so pro though and pushes on into trot without giving it another thought for now. The beginning of the trot work is elegant and supple but there’s a break of rhythm in the extended which is another expensive mistake. Again, they get things straight back together and the scores improve significantly. There’s an 8 and two 7.5s for the halt and the reinback is clean and deliberate.

Grape shows good swing in the walk and Jonelle rides the preparation for the pirouette masterfully, so deliberate and accurate. They transition into trot and show a very good bend in the half-pass before striking off into canter. Jonelle pushes for the extended and is rewarded with two 7.5s and a 7. The first change is clean enough for two 6s and Jonelle is clearly riding the horse that’s underneath her to bring out the best in the mare. The tension’s creeping in though and coming out in the changes; they’re very expensive.

They finish up with a nice square halt and a slightly rueful smile from Jonelle. This horse has everything to really deliver in this phase, but that first halt kind of set them up for some expensive mistakes today. Grape stretches her neck as she ambles out of the ring. Slightly frustrating for Jonelle, but the best bit’s to come.

Jonelle Price and Grappa Nera score 37.6.

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6:17am ET

🇬🇧 Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent

🏆 Kentucky champ and Maryland third place finisher ‘Rosie’ comes forward for her first 5* on British soil. Will her homeland prove to be as successful a hunting ground? Photo by Sally Spickard.

Today’s Test:

Boy did ‘Rosie’ look ready to run at the horse inspection on Wednesday, very nearly taking Oliver with her as she took off down the jog strip. She looks much more settled as she makes her way round the ring waiting for the bell.

They are dead straight up the center line, totally meaning business. Nicola in the commentary box says it’s the straightest entry we’ve seen and they get their Burghley underway with a 9 for the first halt. Ooo, Rosie’s showing her class in the early trot work. She’s strong and expressive and looks to be so very confident in her work. Lots of 8s coming in at the early stage of this test.

The halt at C is better than the first – two 9s and a 10!!! THE FIRST 10 WE’VE SEEN!

Rosie’s walk is so balanced and rhythmical and Oliver’s able to keep the pirouettes small. There’s a bit of stickiness in the second though and it affects the transition into trot, but Oliver puts it behind him and they get a smooth transition into canter. They’re brave in the extended for two 8s and and 8.5 and Rosie shows her suppleness in the half-pass. But, oh those changes. The first is muddled and scores 4s across the board but the next two are clean and accurate and there’s a 7 in the marks. The final change is super, 8s across the board for that.

They finish up with another great halt for two 9s and Oliver looks suitably pleased. What an exciting young horse this is. She’s been confident and relaxed in the Main Arena and so solid and happy in her work. That first change was expensive but they’re right up there in terms of the leaderboard. Is Oliver back for another Burghley win? With this girl, and this start, there’s every chance. They go into third.

Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent score 24.4.

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6:09am ET

🇫🇷 Gireg Le Coz and Aisprit De La Loge

Fresh from supporting the silver medal winning French team in Paris as traveling reserve, this combination had an excellent thirteenth place finish at Badminton last year, when conditions out on course, and in the show jumping ring, and well, even the dressage arena, were, if you will, particularly tricky 💗 Gireg gives massive credit to his horse’s extraordinary honesty, a wonderful quality to have in any horse, particularly a 5* partner. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Gireg was suitably suave with a very dapper collar on his jacket at the horse inspection on Wednesday. His dress is a bit more subdued for his dressage test.

They come up the center line slightly off the mown strip and score a 7.5, 7 and 6.5 for the first halt. Gireg’s really riding the early trot work with confidence and showing off the expression and swing this horse has. This horse looks very happy in his work and there are lots of 7.5s coming in.

They’re just short of the center line for the halt at C but it’s lovely and square and gets 8s across the board. The reinback is very good for another 8. They set off into a very relaxed walk, taking the frame out in the extended and showing a nice swing. They keep a good rhythm through the pirouettes and score an 8 for the first one. There’s a little bit of anticipation before the trot transition but Gireg holds him and they show an expressive half-pass. Gireg pushes for the extended and is rewarded with a 9.

This horse is so obviously established in his work and well within himself. There are 8s in the marks for the flying changes. Everything is so uphill and effortless, a real joy to see a horse so comfortable and happy in his work. A pleasure from start to finish, a brilliant performance from both horse and rider. They’ve delivered the best ever dressage score for France at Burghley and go into third. This competition sure is spicy!

Gireg Le Coz and Aisprit De La Loge score 25.3.

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6:02am ET

🇺🇸 Hannah Sue Hollberg and Capitol H I M

🗞️ Hannah completed her first 5* at Kentucky in 2007 with a hose she’d found in the classified ads when she was 13. ✈️ This is Chito’s first event outside North America. He was fourth at Maryland last season. Photo by Sally Spickard.

Today’s Test:

Hannah and ‘Chito’ really are a picture as they canter up the center line. Chito takes the opportunity for a toilet break in the halt. They’re off to a great start with two 8s and a 7.5. Chito’s so balanced and rhythmical in his trot work and Hannah’s really showing him off. There are lots of 7s and a smattering of 8s coming in for them.

The halt at C isn’t quite square and the steps in the reinback could have been cleaner, but they set off into a relaxed enough walk. The pirouette is soft and supple and scores two 7s and a 7.5 and there’s more nice bend in the second for the same scores. The transition into trot is rewarded with 7.5s across the board.

They set off into canter and make an elegant picture together, they’re really working as a partnership and Hannah’s clearly riding for every mark. The first change is solid for 7s across the board but then there’s seems to have been an error of course as Hannah moves into walk, although the buzzer didn’t sound, Hannah seems to have picked up on it before the judges. That’s a real shame when things were going so well. It’s worth mentioning again that this is a brand new test for the riders. She gets back on track though and finishes up on a very positive note with three 8s for the final halt. This would have gone sub-30 had it not been for that error. Chito looks happy as he walks out of the ring on a loose rein.

Frustrating, but still a great score going into cross country.

Hannah Sue Hollberg and Capitol H I M score 30.7.

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🇦🇺 Sophia Hill and Humble Glory

5:54am ET

🏇 OTTB ‘Hughie’ has a short, unsuccessful racing career behind him but it’s all eyes on the future as he takes on Burghley, a feat made possible by the remortgaging of Sophia and her husband’s house – you gotta go all in when it comes to making dreams come true. He’s looked impressive on British soil thus far this season – eyes on for a leaderboard climb as the weekend progresses – he finished on his dressage for a podium place at Adelaide and his blood sure does show in his speedy cross country rounds 👀

Today’s Test:

This pair get their start off with a halt just off the center line for two 6s and a 6.5 and then set off into trot. He’s mouthing a bit and Nicola Wilson in the commentary box (who they’ve been based with) explains that they’ve been trying out a double bridle over the last few weeks to see if it helps the horse in this phase.

Sophia’s riding for every mark as they navigate the trot work accurately and they show excellent immobility in the halt for a 7.5. The reinback is accurate enough for 7s across the board. The walk starts out well but there’s some anticipation as they head into the pirouettes and Humble Glory gets a little stuck in the second. They move off into trot smoothly but the horse gets a bit tight in the half-pass as the underlying tension still bubbles away.

They get a smooth strike off into canter and the horse seems to be settling into his work. They produce a very clean, accurate change after the half-pass and are rewarded with two 7s and a 6.5. He’s really staying rideable for Sophia and she’s making the most of every movement. He gets a little tight before the final change but the change itself comes up nicely. They halt and there’s a huge smile from Sophia. The horse has tried so hard for her this morning and Sophia’s ridden him very sympathetically. Look out for them tomorrow, they’re so quick that if you blink, you’ll miss ’em!

Sophia Hill and Humble Glory score 36.9.

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5:47am ET

🇬🇧 Emma Thomas and Icarus X

🧨 Fireworks alert! ‘Stix’ is known for being a difficult ride, particularly on the flat – he put down a 51.2 at Badminton in the spring 🎹 Also, as well as eventing, Emma’s also a whizz on the piano. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

‘Stix’ sent the judge flying as he galloped down the jog strip at the horse inspection on Wednesday. Let’s hope he’s settled since then.

Stix’s tail is flying as he canters up the center line. He looks very alert in the first halt. Emma looks serious. She’s got a job on her hands here. He may be lit up but he’s so expressive and you can really see his talent. The extended shows off his scope and power and he is showing an elegant presence, just with a lot of excitement bubbling under the surface.

He looks to be settling as they move through their test and Emma’s doing a really good job. The tension is highlighted in a very quick reinback and the scores dip from in the 6s on the whole to a 4, 5 and 5.5. He really uses his body in the walk and Emma holds onto what looks to be an awful lot of horse underneath her. The pirouettes are actually rather good and score in the 6s. The transition into trot is very good for 7s across the board but there’s a bit of a wobble in the half-pass. They go into canter and he stays with Emma, she obviously can’t push in the extended but he comes back to her nicely. He really is trying very hard for her.

The tension comes out in the changes, they’re clean but a big ask for an excited horse. Emma’s ridden this horse masterfully and really shown the depth of their relationship. The final halt is good enough for a 7. Emma’s held it together so well and there’s obviously a bunch of potential in this phase for the horse, he’s just too excited about being at Burghley. He’s having a good look round as he leaves the ring, taking it all in and looking very pleased that so many people have come to see him.

Emma Thomas and Icarus X score 39.1.

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5:39am ET

🇳🇿 Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier

🏆 Caroline and ‘Cav’ were incredibly popular Badminton winners in the spring, and Caroline’s also won Burghley, back in 2010 with the late, great Lenamore. Fun fact 🤩 she groomed for top-level eventer, turned commentator, turned course builder Ian Stark at the Atlanta Games in 1996. Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.

Today’s Test:

We’re back after the break with this year’s Badminton champs – in fact, there are three 5* winners in this session alone. Boy this competition is stacked.

‘Cav’ looked supremely ready to play as she pranced down the jog strip at the horse inspection on Wednesday. She traveled to Paris as reserve so is truly match fit and ready to run. Just a small matter of the dressage first though, please Cav.

They come dead straight up the center line and Caroline laughs a little as Cav fiddles a bit in the halt, although it’s good enough for an 8 and two 7.5s. Cav sure does look special as she sets off into the early trot work. Caroline’s very brave in the extended and there’s a slight loss of balance in the step over the X mark, but with great risk comes great reward even if it doesn’t always come off.

The halt at C is excellent and scores two 8s. The reinback is accurate and they set off into a bold walk. Cav’s blowing a bit through her nose and there’s clearly excitement brewing as Caroline collects her for the first pirouette. The second one is very good for a 7.5 and 7s. They’re smooth into the trot and then get a clean strike off into canter. Caroline pushes for the extended and is rewarded this time with an 8.5 and an 8.

They’re very straight in the change and it’s exactly on her aids – that scores two 7.5s and a 7 and there’s an 8 in the scores for the first change on the serpentine. Quite a few 8s coming in for them. The changes are all solid and truly established and there’s an 8 in the scores. The final halt scores two 9s.

What a test. Caroline went for it and there’s a 9 and an 8 in the harmony marks. What a performance for them. They go into a very well-deserved third place. Like I said in the into to this morning, we’ll seeing brave riding as the competitors really go for it and Caroline absolutely stepped up to the mark. Superb sport.

Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier score 25.4.

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We’re heading into a short break now. Back in just over 15 minutes, at 5:39am ET.

🇺🇸 We’ll see the first of today’s US competitors after the break when Hannah Sue Hollberg and Capitol H I M enter the ring at 6:02am.

EN’s coverage of Defender Burghley is proudly presented by Kentucky Performance Products, your one-stop shop for science-backed nutritional support for every horse. Click here to learn more about KPP.

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5:15am ET

🇬🇧 Alice Casburn and Topspin

🎾 All the Casburn homebreds have tennis-related names and Topspin is a second generation homebred who still lives in the stable he was born in – Alice’s mom competed his grandmother. He’s known as ‘Spinach’ 🌱 at home. This pair have been 5th and 7th at Burghley and Alice will be gunning for another fabulous 5* finish. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

We’ll be heading into the first break after Alice’s test.

Alice is used to being the youngest competitor at these big events, what with being just 22, but this year she’s been pipped to the title by Tom Bird.

It’s a very serious Alice in the ring this morning as she aims to add another excellent Burghley result to her record. Topspin looks fabulous as he trots round the ring, he’s so powerful and balanced in his movement. He can get hot in this phase but he looks relaxed and happy in his work this morning.

The halt is secure at C and the reinback gets 6.5s across the board. They set off into walk and it’s a little tentative in places. As they make their way to the crowd-end of the arena the tension becomes clear. There’s a little jog and then he gets himself in a bit of a bother over the pirouettes – he’s stepping backwards and there’s the hint of a wave to the crowd from Spinach. But Alice knows this guy inside out. She sits quiet and encourages him forward. The marks have nosedived for those movements but Alice puts it behind them and they move into trot, and then canter.

The tension’s clearly brewing under the surface in the canter work and Alice is doing an excellent job of making things happen. There are 7s coming in for some of the lateral work and they finish up with two 7s and a 7.5 in a job well done by Alice for pulling that test back round. She breathes a big sigh of relief as she salutes, and smiles. This test has absolutely been a testament to the relationship between horse and rider, of knowing your horse and working with them and supporting them. Some really lovely work, some tense moments. Great job Alice, such a young rider showing such a mature ride.

Alice Casburn and Topspin score 36.6.

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5:07am ET

🇮🇪 Sarah Ennis and Grantstown Jackson

🤿 The water complexes out on course won’t phase Sarah – when she’s not on horseback she loves to sail and is a qualified Dive Master. This pair were in it to win it in a very good place coming into the final phase at Badminton in the spring, but a very expensive show jumping round saw them finish 17th once all was said and done. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Grantstown Jackson really is an impressive picture as he makes his way around the ring waiting for the bell. He’s so bold and beautiful, a real event horse. They come up the center line and there’s a bit of a wobbly step into the halt, but Sarah’s got her game face on and she kicks on into trot. There’s another tiny stumble in the half-pass but they keep their concentration and Sarah pushes in the extended and shows off all of Grantstown Jackson’s scope and power. We don’t have scores again, sorry.

The halt at C is solid and the reinback is accurate for two 7s and a 7.5 (they’re back). The walk is relaxed and powerful and there’s an 8 in the marks for the change of rein, although Grantstown Jackson is shaking his tail slightly and goes a bit stiff in the pirouettes. They get a clean transition to canter and there’s more opportunity for Sarah to show off the horse’s power in the extended. He anticipates the first change and it happens early but the two subsequent ones are clean. The final one is a little late behind though.

Overall this has really shown a horse and rider working together, the horse has really tried for Sarah and there’s clearly a lot of potential in this phase. But truly, this guy is a cross country dream – don’t miss him on Saturday. We can see what a great job they both did in the ring as he spooks and shoots forward when he leaves the arena. Onward to cross country!

Sarah Ennis and Grantstown Jackson score 34.5.

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5am ET

🇬🇧 Tom McEwen and CHF Cooliser

🥇 Fresh from winning Olympic team gold, World No. 1 Tom brings Pau and Luhmuhlen runner-up ‘Eliza’ back to Burghley after finishing just outside the top-10 last year. 👶 Tom sure has been a busy boy of late, having got married at the end of last season and now there’s a mini McEwen on the way. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Already a winner at this year’s Burghley, Tom rocked the flat cap (in favor of his Olympic bucket hat) at the first horse inspection and was named best dressed male by Fairfax & Favor.

Tom’s got his game face on as he canters dead straight up the mown strip on the center line and halts square. A great start for them. Unfortunately we seem to have lost the scores off the screen so I can’t bring them to you right now.

This mare really looks impressive as she trots round the ring, so bright and supple, and very impressive in the extended trot which Tom really pushes for. The halt at C is very nearly square but Cooliser wasn’t happy about going backwards and only gives Tom four steps not five – that was expensive for two 4s and a 3 (the scores are back). The walk work is quiet and balanced and the first pirouette is so well done and is rewarded with two 7.5s and an 8; the second one is almost as good for 7.5s across the board. Tom’s brave in the extended canter and scores three 8s. Cooliser is really working with Tom and this pair look confident as they present their test this morning.

Unfortunately this first change is a little muddled but Tom puts it behind him and pushes on. The rest are also a little expensive. Overall this test has really shown off Cooliser; there were some excellent highlights and a couple of expensive mistakes that Tom will no doubt be working on over the winter.

Tom McEwen and CHF Cooliser score 31.2.

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4:52am ET

🇳🇱 Andrew Heffernan and Harthill Phantom

A man with many hats 🤠 As well as riding at the top level, Andrew’s also National Coach for the Netherlands. He’s back at Burghley with Harthill Phantom after retiring out on course last year on the gelding’s CCI5* debut and Andrew’s first time at the level since 2017. He’ll be hoping for a solid completion this time around.

Today’s Test:

Andy and Harthill Phantom come up the center line of a sun-soaked ring. The immobility isn’t there in the halt and they start off with two 5s and a 6. They set off into a balanced trot. This horse really has such clean and clear steps, showing off the horse’s suppleness and balance. Lots of 7s coming in for them at the early part of their test.

The halt at C isn’t quite square behind but they hold the immobility this time – two 6.5s and an 8 are the scores for that. The reinback is clean and accurate and scores 7s across the board. Harthill Phantom is very relaxed in the walk and Andy encourages him to take the contact forward. The first pirouette is rather stiff and then the second one prompts the horse to anticipate the trot transition. Andy gets him back straight away though.

They go into canter but the bell rings for an error of course. That’s so unfortunate. He circles back round to do the extended canter, which is excellent for an 8 and two 7s. The scores have gone up now that Harthill Phantom’s in canter, although there’s a little tightness in the first change, it’s clean enough for 7s across the board though. There’s some tension creeping in as the tests nears the end but Andy’s holding everything together with all of his experience.

There was a lot of good stuff going on it this test, but unfortunately a couple of expensive errors and that penalty for going the wrong way. They end on an 8 and two 7.5s for the final halt though. We can see the excitement Andy’s been holding in check as the horse jogs out of the ring. Cross country tomorrow!

Andrew Heffernan and Harthill Phantom score 33.5.

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4:45am ET

🇬🇧 Will Rawlin and Ballycoog Breaker Boy

Here’s Will 🙋‍♂️ and ‘William’ 🐴 – yep, that’s right, this gelding is known as William to his pals, because that’s not confusing at all. Anyway, William made his 5* debut at Badminton and finished top-25. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Will was particularly nattily dressed at the horse inspection on Wednesday, looking every bit the gentleman of yesteryear. He’s gone with more traditional riding attire for his test this morning.

Will looks incredibly serious as he sets out this morning. ‘William’ (horse) is really leggy and elegant and they make a nice picture as they trot round the ring. He knocks himself slightly in the extended trot but it doesn’t bother him and he shows his bold stride which’ll surely come in handy tomorrow.

The halt’s marked as an 8 and two 5s and then the reinback is a little stiff and scores a 7, 6 and 5.5. The horse starts off in walk nicely relaxed and the pirouettes are accurate enough for 7s in the scores. They strike off into canter and the relaxation continues. Will pushes for the extended and scores in the 7s. This pair clearly have so much potential in this phase. The first change is excellent for two 7.5s and a 7 but unfortunately the second is a bit muddled, that was expensive for 4s in the scores. The final change is 7s across the board though.

He loses his balance a bit in the final halt but there’s a big cheer from the crowd. There’s been a lot of promise shown in this test, lots to like and a solid start to their Burghley.

Will Rawlin and Ballycoog Breaker Boy score 32.

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4:37am ET

🇺🇸 Cosby Green and Copper Beach

🤩 Cosby made the trip from the US to the UK with three of her horses last season to be based with Team Price. Since then she’s completed at Badminton and finished 16th at Pau. Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Copper Beach looks beautiful as the early morning sun shines off his chestnut coat. They get off to a solid start with 7s and a 7.5 for the first halt. There’s some tail swishing going on in the trot work but Copper Beach looks relaxed on the whole and there are 6.5s and 7s coming in for the early part of their test. The extended trot is a little hurried but he’s soft and supple in the lateral work and is being rewarded for that in the scores.

The halt at C scores 7s and a 7.5 and the rein back is very clean. This horse has got a great walk, lots of swing and relaxation and really stepping through – he scores two 8s and a 7.5 for the walk change of rein. He’s a smidge stiff in the pirouettes but they’re clean.

They strike off into canter and this guy shows all of his experience in the first change and scores two 7.5s and a 7. There’s lots of established and confident work on show from this pair across the entire test. Copper Beach anticipates the halt at the end and Cosby smiles. It’s 4s across the board for the final halt but overall this test has been very impressive from both horse and rider and Cosy looks delighted as Copper Beach shows off to the crowd on the way out of the ring.

Cosby Green and Copper Beach score 31.6.

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4:30am ET

🇬🇧 Emily King and Valmy Biats

🏃 Emily’s hot to trot – she ran the London Marathon last year, raising money for The Brain and Spine Foundation. This pair were fourth at Badminton in the spring and are for sure ones to watch this week 👀 Photo by Tilly Berendt.

Today’s Test:

Getting things going today, Emily and ‘Val’ are in the ring and ready to start their Burghley. This pair really do have the potential to launch their challenge on the top of the leaderboard, so we really do have dressage excitement from start to finish today.

They start off with a tiny bit of unsteadiness in the halt, which was a shame as it had been beautifully square. Onward though for Emily, she’s put that straight behind her and is pulling in 7.5s and some 8s for the early trot work. Valmy’s really soft and supple and he’s really listening to Emily and looks happy in the ring this morning.

They go past the marker slightly in the halt at C and the marks drop a little in the reinback with two 6.5s. Emily rides the walk tactfully, and uses all of her experience in the pirouettes when Valmy starts to anticipate the movement. The marks are right up to 7.5s and 8s again as they go back into trot and there’s a 9, 8.5 and 8 for the extended canter when they get there.

There’s another 9 for the half-pass and two 8s for the change. This test is really showing off Valmy’s highlights and he’s so obviously comfortable and established in his work. The final halt is slightly off the line, but scores an 8, and Emily smiles at the end. It may be early but the crowd make a whole lot of noise for the supreme quality on show in the ring. A superb start to the day, a PB at the level and into second for Emily and Valmy Biats.

Emily King and Valmy Biats score 24.1.

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