Burghley’s first day of dressage enjoyed good weather, if a little blustery, and the blustery weather, big crowds and electric atmosphere of the famous Burghley arena definitely affected some horses, with their tension spoiling their rideability and concentration, to the detriment of their marks.
Piggy French being interviewed just after her test.
Some riders felt that the traditional ‘first day harsh marking’ affected their scores, but the judges proved with the second to go in of the day, Sarah Bullimore, that they weren’t afraid to give a sub-50 mark, Valentino scoring 49.5.
This was bettered just two horses later by Piggy French, whose good test on Westwood Mariner divided the judges, two giving 71 and 72%, with the third, Ernst Topp, giving 65.33%.
First timer Gina Ruck conjured a smooth test from her Rehy Too, for fourth place of the morning session, and eventually eighth place overnight.
WEG bronze medallist Andrew Heffernan completed the top five at this stage, on his experienced mare Millthyme Corolla.
Sam and Happy Times do the last flying change of the test.
Sam Griffiths proved that his faith in his long-term partner Happy Times is not misplaced, by posting a very solid 40.2 to lead overnight, an enviable position to be in.
Allison Springer and Arthur strutting their stuff with aplomb!
Allison Springer of the USA was the first rider of the afternoon session to trouble the top of the leaderboard, he showed a little tension in the walk but scored 7s and 8s for the rest of the test, presented in beautiful balance and showing secure work, for a score of 41.2, into second at that point, and eventually third overnight.
Overheard by our tog: as Allison left the arena and Louise Harwood came in, Louise said to her “You were as impressive as always”. Wonderful sportsmanship.
Andrew Hoy and Rutherglen show a very good extended trot
Only Andrew Hoy and Rutherglen could better Allison’s mark today, scoring 40.8 to slot into second.
Marilyn Little, last to go of the Thursday lot, had a test with a few ups and downs, but managed to coax a score of 47.5 from RF Demeter.
With Australian riders in first and second, and Americans in third and fifth at this stage, only Piggy French flies the flag for GB in the top five.
Dressage recommences tomorrow morning at 10am with Tim Cheffings on the youngest horse in the competition, Alinero van het Scharenberg.
Marilyn Little and RF Demeter
