The two days of Dressage at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials were full of action, and gripping to the end. Oliver Townend set off on three rides across the two days, and posted his best score on his first ride, MHS King Joules. Oliver lies in 3rd and 5th places, and has it all to play for. Mark Todd leapfrogged into first place on Friday, and leads the way into Saturday’s cross country. The Kiwis are leading the way currently, with Mark Todd and Tim Price in first and second place respectively.
Many riders have been apprehensive about tackling Captain Mark Phillips’ tough course, with some describing it as a ‘four and a half star’ course. Others, on the other hand (Lissa Green to mention one name) are relishing the challenge and can’t wait to get out and try the course on Saturday. In any case, it proves to be a serious test, with the time being very influential. Of course, the scores are very tight at the top of the leaderboard, and every second across the country will count.
Stay tuned for more action, and keep up to date with H&C’s coverage on social media all weekend.