The cross-country phase is well underway at the Agria FEI Eventing European Championship and the scoreboard has already altered considerably, dramatically opening up the competition and promising a gripping afternoon’s sport.
The British team has been eliminated for two rider falls, for Yasmin Ingham at fence 22 (the FEI mounds) and Piggy March who landed in the water at fence 20.
Germany has two riders home and clear; first-timer Libussa Lubbeke and Caramia 34 incurred 30 time penalties, but second-to-go Malin Hansen-Hotop (Carlitos Quidditch K) was quicker and came home with 14.
The Swiss were even faster. First on course, Nadja Minder riding Toblerone for Switzerland, gave great confidence with a fast clear round, but her 12.8 time penalties indicated to the rest of the competitors that the optimum time of 10 minutes and one second would be challenging.
“It was a big honour to kick off this championship track and, as I told everyone, there is no better horse than Toblerone,” said Nadja.
“He is so honest and kept on his line, but it was tough to stay on time and by the time I got to the Rollercoaster and the first water, I was behind. My advice to riders is to stay concentrated.”
The second Swiss rider, Melody Johner on Erin, only incurred eight penalties, and were given 15 penalties for a missed flag at fence 22, which may be contested.
All British eyes will now be on Tom McEwen, Laura Collet and Bubby Upton; all well placed after dressage, they now will be riding for the potential of individual glory.
