Fair Hill CCI3* Morning Dressage Update

Jan Bynny and Inmidair currently lead the CCI3* dressage.

We’re finally underway in the CCI3* dressage at Fair Hill. The rain stopped during the first set of morning tests — although it’s picked back up again as I type this. We’re pressing on and hoping for the best. Jan Bynny and Inmidair currently lead on a 49.8. Marilyn Little and Demeter were first up, trotting into the ring, instead of entering at the canter, picking up an error right off the bat. But she recovered to ride a nice test. Demeter was a little fussy in the rein back, but overall very obedient for a score of 52.6

Jan and Inmidair were next in the ring. It was clear Inmidair already has his mind on cross country tomorrow, but Jan really kept him focused. He looked very keen and the test was rather exuberant in spots. Jan struggled to hang on in the extended canter and was visibly relieved at the salute, earning a 49.8. As Buck Davidson passed her while circling the ring, Jan quipped, “Not bad. I’m still on.” Inmidair will be in his element tomorrow.

Buck Davidson and Park Trader rode a very nice test. The horse was up but obedient for a 54. Buck gave him big pats both before and after the test. Will Faudree and DHI Colour Candy were perhaps a touch quiet, but the test was obedient and the changes in particular were lovely for a 60.4.

Sir Donovan is a personal favorite of mine, so I really enjoyed watching him go with Katie Ruppel. His ears were flicking back during the entire test as he carefully listened to Katie. He seemed very relaxed and happy for a 58.8. Megan O’Donoghue struggled to keep Pirate in check. The Thoroughbred gelding gave a little half-buck in the first change, but was better in the second change. Megan kept a tight rein on him in the extended canter, earning a 62.4.

Kristin Schmolze and Ballylaffin Bracken looked lovely together for a 51.6. This horse really tries his heart out and seems to love his job. He’s really a fantastic, floaty mover. Lainey Ashker and Anthony Patch struggled during their test. Anthony Patch was spooky while circling the ring and didn’t settle once the test was underway. She fought to keep him under control the whole way for a score of 60.2.

Stay tuned for much more from the CCI3* dressage and keep up with the live scores here.