Photo by Erin Gilmore
A tough competition at Greenwich Park continued for Team USA this morning when Boyd Martin withdrew Otis Barbotiere from the holding box at the final horse inspection. Twizzel, Mysery Whisper, Ringwood Magister, and Mr. Medicott all passed the inspection, but Otis’ withdraw takes the US team score to 178.5. France’s Ocarina du Chanois was not presented by Donatien Schauly, bringing France’s new total to 221.6. Belgium’s Nepal du Sudre was sent to the holding box but passed on reinspection. Polish rider Pawel Spisak withdrew his horse Wag from the holding box. The highest placed horse to be held, Shamwari in 7th, caused Sweden some frightful moments but passed upon reinspection. Dunkas and Lully Des Aulnes of Belgium were not presented.
The German, British, and New Zealand teams all got their five riders through the inspection. Imperial Cavalier and Opposition Buzz were especially fresh. Jessica Phoenix and Exponential of Canada passed the inspection. Canada only has one remaining pair after Michelle Mueller and Amistad withdrew Monday evening following a tendon tear. The top four team spots remain unchanged–Germany, Great Britain, Sweden, and New Zealand, Australia is in fifth and Team USA slides to 6th.
[Updated Team Standings from H&H]
I want to give a special thanks to ESJ and Erin Gilmore for updates throughout the first horse inspection. The first round of show jumping begins at 10:30am local, 5:30am ET and the final round begins at 2:30pm local, 9:30am ET. Go eventing.
9:08am Update: Boyd has said that be believes Otis just sprained his ankle.
