We’ve got an exciting few weeks of sport ahead of us at H&C with the World Equestrian Games (WEG) days away – followed by one of the world’s toughest three day events.
Big names
With WEG taking place just over the water, this year’s Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials (4-7 September)looks set to be an international affair. There are 100 horses entered, from 11 nations and some of the biggest names in eventing.
All eyes will be on New Zealand’s Andrew Nicholson who is hoping to be the first rider to achieve three consecutive wins with Avebury. The pair is on great form following wins at Gatcombe and Barbury. Andrew is also entered on Nereo – both horses are on the WEG squad.
Six wins
Andrew isn’t the only former champion looking for another Burghley title, but none have been as successful as William Fox-Pitt who has won the event six times. He is entered with a trio of top horses, Bay My Hero, Chilli Morning (his WEG ride) and Parkland Hawk – all of whom are capable to making it number seven for William.
Sir Mark Todd will be hoping to match William’s current ecord with Oloa. The five-times winner last saw his name on the coveted trophy back in 1999 when he rode Diamond Hall Red.
Australia’s Andrew Hoy, who won in 1979 and again in 2004, will also have his eye on the prize, as will fellow Antipodean Sam Griffiths. Following his win at Badminton Sam will be aiming for the Rolex Grand Slam, which means achieving win at Burghley followed by Kentucky next May.
Doping charges
After been exonerated of doping charges, Kevin McNab will be competing Clifton Pinot. The pair came 14th last year, but was disqualified after Pinot failed his drugs test. Kevin will no doubt be looking to put last year behind him and focus on his performance.
Last year’s winner Jock Paget, who was also cleared of doping charges, won’t be competing as he is taking Clifton Promise to France for WEG. Despite the FEI’s decision, he still lost the Burghley title, which went to fellow Kiwi Andrew Nicholson.
All to play for
The event also welcomes 27 first time combinations.Young British riders include Lincolnshire-based Gina Ruck, a former British Pony team member who’ll be competing on home-produced Rehy Too, and Kirsty Short from Hertfordshire who brings her U25s partner Cossan Lad.
Land Rover Burghley Event Director, Elizabeth Inman said: “The standard of entries is as high as ever this year and we look forward to welcoming some if not all of the World Equestrian Games medallists to Lincolnshire this autumn.
“As always Mark Philips’ cross country course will provide riders and horses with a true four-star challenge and with Andrew Nicholson and Avebury aiming for an as yet unachieved treble and Sam Griffiths focusing on the elusive Rolex Grand Slam there is all to play for.”