Henny enjoying some sunshine at Maizey Manor. Photo via Run Henny Run's Facebook page.
Although we were all sorely disappointed to not see Peter Atkins and Henry Jota Hampton frolic around Rolex this year, Peter has set Badminton in his sights with a vengeance. Not only is Badminton a selection trial for the Australian WEG team, but the last time he planned to compete, he broke his leg before he could make it to the competition. It’s safe to say, therefore, that Peter will be riding hard for many reasons next weekend.
Peter and Henny flew over last weekend to get in some extra prep time at Maizey Manor before Badminton. Most recently, Peter and Henny tackled the CIC3* at The Fork, where they had an unfortunate runout but an otherwise strong cross country round. “I’m not as happy (with our spring) as I’d like to be,” Peter said. “I haven’t had my perfect prep, and I thought about not going (to Badminton) after The Fork, but he finished so strong there and I thought it would only make us better.”
Enjoying the scenery after a gallop. Photo via Run Henny Run’s Facebook page.
Peter and Henny have been enjoying their time at Maizey Manor, where the gallop tracks are plentiful. “The horses really love it there. It’s great to have the hills there, and I’m very happy to have had the ability to go over early.”
Approaching Badminton, Peter feels confident and is excited for the experience. “I think (Henny) will do well in a grass ring and not one that is so dressed up like it is at Rolex,” Peter said. “The atmosphere doesn’t affect him much, but he doesn’t care much for bright decorations and a dressed up arena. I do think the cross country will be interesting. It seems that (new cross country course designer Giuseppe della Chiesa) is trying to make a statement.”
Boyd supports the Henny cause! Photo via Run Henny Run’s Facebook page.
Peter does plan to wear his helmet cam for cross country at Badminton, so keep an eye out for what is sure to be an entertaining video. Flying a horse overseas is never inexpensive, so don’t forget that you can help support Peter and Henny’s journey by shopping on the Run Henny Run store or stopping by their GoFundMe page.
Go Peter and Henny, and Go Badminton.
