Adding to the pressure of competing at the nation’s biggest event (and for some, a spot on the team!), competitors must indulge the media in daily press conferences. Lucky for us, they are friendly and have plenty to say about the weather, the cross-country course, and their amazing horses.
William Fox-Pitt:
“Cool Mountain is a very talented horse on the flat…to produce his best test today, in this atmosphere, is a credit to him, but I think he’s got more in him.”
On Saturday’s test: “Last year the course was a bit tricker but there are plenty of chances to make mistakes.”
“If it rains it will be huge.”
Allison Springer:
“I’ve been working really hard to improve myself and my horse in all three phases, and I hope that this weekend we can really put it all together.”
“This is a place I’ve always dreamed to be.”
Press conference video from EventingUSA
Oliver Townend:
“The horses were about as good as they could be today, but it’s very tough competition we’re up against.”
Oli’s strategy for Saturday: “Go clear inside the time.”
Karen O’Connor:
“It takes a village…a lot of people went down that center line with me.”
On Mandiba and cross-country: “He feels confirmed. His experience matches the questions tomorrow.”
Phillip Dutton:
[The Foreman] is obviously one of the best horses I’ve ever had…It’s a bonus having him here and I am enjoying it.”
Read what else the top riders had to say:
USEF: Dressage Day 1, Dressage Day 2
USEA: Dressage Day 1, Dressage Day 2
