Michael and Nathalie Pollard are attending the Olympics this weekend to cheer on Nathalie’s father, Carl Bouckaert, who is competing for Belgium. Michael has generously offered to keep us updated on his experiences as a rider watching in London. If you don’t follow Michael on Twitter and Facebook, you should do so now or risk missing out on awesomeness.
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Carl with Belgian fans
From Michael:
I’ve got that fever…that’s right the Olympic fever. We decided last week to come to support Carl and thought we were going to be accredited. Unfortunately, that paperwork didn’t happen exactly as planned, but despite that, Nat and I are excited and I feel really fortunate to be here.
So far I have been really impressed with the organization of the city and transport has been quite convenient despite our base being quite far out in Croyton.
We arrived early at the venue and met up w Jess Frankfort (will Coleman’s much more attractive half) and promptly started laughing at her direct accounts as a non-accredited girlfriend. If you know her I’m sure you know what I mean, and if you don’t, you should, because she is great fun!
The riders in dressage went without any major surprises, but I would like for someone to tell me how to pronounce Tseliapushkina…last name of the competitor from Belarus.
One thing that is unique to the Olympics is the disparity between the top countries and those that are just getting horses to this level. While it makes a slightly less competitive field overall than say badminton it certainly adds an element to the competition, and is a great way to continue to expand the sport. You hope that one of these riders will inspire their fellow country people to join the sport, and that eventually teams will form from areas new to eventing.
