Tag Archives: featured

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Kentucky Horse Shows, Show Jumping

Hagyard Challenge Series to Feature 2013 $50,000 Leading Rider Award

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Shane Sweetnam, winner of the 2012 Hagyard Challenge Series Leading Rider Award. Photo By: Shawn McMillen Photography.

Lexington, KY – May 8, 2013 – The Kentucky Spring Horse Shows are getting underway today at the Kentucky Horse Park, and one of the highlight events will be the kick-off of the 2013 Hagyard Challenge Series, sponsored by the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. The Hagyard Challenge Series consists of seven grand prix classes to be held during the 2013 show series at the Kentucky Horse Park. Following the final event, a cash prize of $50,000 will be awarded to the rider accumulating the most points throughout the series.

The Kentucky Spring Horse Show, held May 8-12, 2013, will feature the lead-off event on Thursday evening with the $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic. The top riders from across the nation will gather to compete over a challenging course and vie for the winning title and valuable points toward the $50,000 Leading Rider Award. The Kentucky Spring Classic, May 15-19, 2013, will host the second $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic on Thursday, May 16.

Later in the year, four more Hagyard Lexington Classic grand prix events will be held during the Kentucky Summer Horse Show, the Kentucky Summer Classic, the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show and the KHJA Horse Show. The Series concludes with the $50,000 World Cup Qualifier during the Kentucky National Horse Show. Following that exciting competition, the winner of the $50,000 Leading Rider will be announced and presented with the prize by the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.

“Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is very excited to be involved with the Kentucky Horse Shows once again,” noted Dr. Stuart Brown, President of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. “We are happy to support a national level of competition through the Hagyard Challenge Series, and we are looking forward to watching the country’s top horse and riders compete during these events.”

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is one of the oldest and largest equine veterinary practices in the world. Founded in 1876, the institute offers a staff with qualifications unparalleled by any single non-university veterinary group in the equine industry, and Hagyard veterinarians have dedicated themselves to the health and well-being of the horse for more than 130 years.

The facility at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute offers 13 Digital Radiology systems, 1.5 Tesla Siemens MRI, Nuclear Scintigraphy, a high speed treadmill, an on-site laboratory, an on-site pharmacy, full surgical services, 24-hour ambulance and emergency services, and Hyperbaric Medicine. The institute has practiced veterinary medicine for more than 133 years and is currently composed of over 60 experienced veterinarians, with 12 board certifications in specialty areas of Medicine, Surgery, Critical Care, and Theriogenology.

Several generous sponsors have helped make this exciting series event happen. These gracious supporters include: title sponsor MWI Veterinary Supply, and presenting sponsor Zoetis, as well as Audi of Lexington, Dean Dorton Allen Ford, Hagyard Flex-tra HA, Johnson Horse Transport, Hallway Feeds, Kirk Horse Insurance LLC, Pike and Preston, and Stoll Keenon Ogden.

MWI Veterinary Supply Inc. is a leading distributor of animal health products to veterinarians in the United States and United Kingdom. We offer more than 30,000 products, sourced from over 500 vendors to more than 20,000 veterinary practices nationwide. Product lines include pharmaceuticals, vaccines, parasiticides, diagnostics, capital equipment, supplies, veterinary pet food and nutritional products. MWI, proud to the Title sponsor of the Hagyard Challenge Series, wishes good luck to all of the owners, horses and riders and says Thank You to equine veterinarians for their dedication to the health and well-being of the horse. For more information please visit https://www.mwivet.com/.

Hagyard Challenge Presenting Sponsor Pfizer Animal Health is now called Zoetis (zō-EH-tis).  Zoetis is the leading animal health company, dedicated to supporting you and your horses.  Building on a 60-year history as Pfizer Animal Health, Zoetis discovers, develops, manufactures and markets veterinary vaccines and medicines, such as WEST NILE-INNOVATOR, FLUVAC INNOVATOR, ZYLEXIS, STRONGID C 2X, QUEST and QUEST PLUS, DORMOSEDAN GEL and EXCEDE. Zoetis is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the 2013 Leading Rider Bonus Award.  For more information, please visit http://www.zoetis.com/.

Dean Dorton Allen Ford provides unmatched knowledge and expertise in equine industry accounting, tax, technology and business consulting.  The firm’s team of equine advisors offers experience, expertise, and proven leadership to clients seeking to successfully adapt to a continually changing equine environment. Dean Dorton Allen Ford is located in Kentucky, known for its world-class horse farms, racing, events and sales. As a result of the firm’s commitment to and experience in the equine industry, it serves equine industry clients throughout the U.S. and beyond. For more information, please visit www.ddafcpa.com.

Audi of Lexington offers many automotive products and services to our customers. From quality new Audis to used cars, we know anyone looking for a new or used car, in or around Lexington, will likely find what they want at our dealership. We carry a comprehensive line of Audi vehicles, including the A3, A4, A5, S5, A6, A7, A8, Q5, Q7, and TT models, making us a good choice as your Lexington Audi car dealer. Our services include trusted car repairs, original Audi parts, and auto financing help for our customers. Call Audi of Lexington at 866-862-AUDI, or come visit us. We’re conveniently located at 3000 Pink Pigeon Parkway, Lexington, KY 40509, and we are looking forward to helping you with your automotive needs. Audi of Lexington is proud to be a sponsor of the Leading Rider Bonus Award. For more information please visit www.audioflexington.com.

Hagyard Flex-tra HA – Hagyard Pharmacy is a nationwide leader in providing the equine industry with the highest quality pharmaceuticals and healthcare products. Backed by over 50 Hagyard veterinarians, Hagyard pharmacy offers excellence in service and expertise. We are conveniently located on the campus of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, across the street from the Kentucky Horse Park or visit us online at www.hagyardpharmacy.com. Be sure to check out Hagyard Flex-tra HA equine joint supplement, available exclusively through the Hagyard Pharmacy. Flex-tra HA provides your horse the highest concentration of HA at the lowest cost. Help your horse achieve his peak performance with a brand you can Trust: Hagyard Flex-tra HA.

Hallway Feeds – For over 45 years Hallway Feeds has been a family owned and operated business devoted to providing the highest quality products and services to the equine industry. Combining our wealth of experience with the specific needs of customers has resulted in both a national and international reputation of excellence for Hallway Feeds. For many years, world renowned horse breeders within Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region have relied upon Hallway Feeds to care for their highly valued stallions, broodmares and growing horses. Hallway Feeds are a staple in the stables of the leading hunters, jumpers, eventers, racehorse trainers and other equine professionals. With a devotion to the horse industry and unwavering commitment to the most technologically advanced and nutritionally sound products, Hallway Feeds is poised to lead the specialty equine feed manufacturing industry for years to come. For more information, please visit http://www.hallwayfeeds.com.

Johnson Horse Transportation, Inc. has over 20 years experience. We provide top notch, state of the art equipment and experienced horsemen who take great pride in giving your horses the same love and care that they get at home. Our knowledgeable drivers and friendly staff help to set Johnson Horse Transportation, Inc. apart to be simply one of the best carriers in the business. Johnson Horse Transportation, Inc. has built a valued, lasting reputation with the horse community as well as being a respected member of the National Horse Carriers Association. Put your mind at ease and let Johnson Horse Transportation, Inc. be your first call. Visit www.johnsonhorsetransportation.com for more information.

Kirk Horse Insurance, LLC is an industry leader in providing horse related insurance, and the sponsor of the 2012 high point Thoroughbred Award. Over 30 years ago, the company began with the simple premise that horse insurance should be changed to offer broader and more straight-forward coverage for horse owners. Today, we continue to be firmly dedicated to providing the best possible coverage options for horse owners. Our staff is comprised of experts in both insurance and the horse business, and we take great pride in guiding you through the complexities of this very specialized area of insurance. For more information, please visit online at www.kirkhorse.com.

Pike & Preston (P&P) is an employee benefits company specializing in health, life and disability insurance for companies throughout the country. P&P has more than 65 years of combined experience in employee benefits. Through their exceptional knowledge of the benefits market, an experienced staff and a commitment to customer service, P&P is just the partner you need to develop a benefit package tailored to your company. For more information, please visit http://www.pikeandpreston.com/.

Stoll Keenon Ogden is a law firm dedicated to its clients. With seven offices in three states and more than 145 attorneys, SKO provides a spectrum of legal services to local, national and international clients. Our attorneys have the experience and knowledge to help clients succeed, and we pride ourselves on raising the practice of law to an art. Learn more at www.skofirm.com.

For more information about the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, please visit http://hagyard.com.

For more information about Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC, please go to
www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.

Rebecca Walton for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Training/Clinics

Motivation from Moshi, by Jane Savoie

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When I was a baby, I used to love to run around the pasture as fast as I could go, then launch myself in the air, kick out behind, land with a thud, then do a sliding stop into my mom’s side. It was great fun. I would play fight with my friends, rearing up and striking at each other with our little hooves as we shook our heads in mock anger. We were preparing for the day we’d have to fight for our own band of mares, but we were also just having fun.

Of course, being a domesticated fellow, I never had to fight for a band of my own. My “family” became Jane, Rhett, and Indy. I have horse friends too, but I’ve never had to compete for company or food. That’s the nice thing about being cared for by human friends.

But that playful colt is still in there. Sometimes, when I’m turned out, I run as fast as I can and launch myself in the air. It’s not as easy as it was when I was a baby, but it’s still fun. It’s exhilarating.

What fun things have you stopped doing? What could you do, today, that would put a smile on your face or rekindle the enthusiasm you had as a youngster?

I heard Jane say once, “We don’t stop playing because we get old; we get old because we stop playing…”

I hope you’re going to go to the barn today! Your horse wants to PLAY with you!

Love, Moshi

From Indy:

In dog years, I’m a teenager. I’m at the prime of my life. I can run as fast as a car (well, at least a car going down the driveway), I can jump as high as a deer, I can wrestle my friend Geoffrey to the ground in three seconds or less, and I can catch a fast moving ball in mid-air.

indy_issue21I don’t intend to grow up. You know what? I don’t have to! I’ve heard Rhett tell Jane how much he enjoys my child-like enthusiasm in everything we do together. He says I remind him to “play full-out.”

Play isn’t just something for kids. The sense of play is what keeps you going when things get tough. It is the inspiration to keep you from stopping when you’re tired. It’s the difference between quitting and giving everything you’ve got.

It’s easy to change your mental focus from serious to playful… just remind yourself of a time when you had a whole lot of fun doing something you love to do. Remind yourself what that feels like. Own it. Feel it. Let your imagination rekindle that sense of fun and excitement! Then apply it to the thing you’re doing now.

My body may look all grown up, but my enthusiasm for life is very puppy-ish. I don’t intend to ever lose that. And I intend to remind both Rhett and Jane how to maintain that sense of play, no matter how serious the task may be. That’s a very serious job, but I do it with joy and playfulness.

Come on! Grab the ball and let’s go outside! Let’s go PLAY!

Love, Indy

Jane Savoie
1174 Hill St ext.
Berlin, VT 05602
Jane’s Website
DressageMentor.com

Competitions, Eventing/H.T.

Paget’s Promise Is Fulfilled at Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials

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Jock Paget (NZL) and Clifton Promise, winners of the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials, fourth leg of the HSBC FEI Classics (Photo: Kit Houghton/FEI).

Lausanne (SUI), 6 May, 2013 – A new star was born when New Zealander Jock Paget triumphed in an extraordinary climax to the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials (GBR), fourth leg of the HSBC FEI Classics.

Paget, who is the first Badminton debutant to win since fellow Kiwi Mark Todd in 1980, had been at great pains to tell people that he had so far never jumped clear in the finale of a CCI4*. But this time, he and Frances Stead’s Clifton Promise were quietly flawless, as indeed they had been throughout the entire competition in which the spotlight had been focussed on the tussle between Jung, Nicholson and Fox-Pitt.

In an almost unbelievable scenario, the usually faultless Michael Jung (GER) and La Biosthetique Sam, leaders after first two phases, hit the very last rail of the competition and dropped to second place.

The Rolex Grand Slam challenge evaporated in a split-second when William Fox-Pitt (GBR) and Parklane Hawk hit the last part of the treble at fence 7 to drop from third to fifth place.

Andrew Nicholson (NZL) had already jumped clear on Nereo to rise one place to third, but when Paget produced his foot-perfect round, Nicholson had to accept that the Grand Slam quest was over for him too.

Nicholson, who has the considerable consolation of extending his lead in the HSBC FEI Classics, admitted that the dollar signs flashed past his eyes when Fox-Pitt hit a fence. “I certainly saw a lot of money for a moment,” he laughed.

He has now completed Badminton 33 times – more than any other rider – but it was only his second time in the top three. “But I have thoroughly enjoyed the whole weekend,” he said. “It’s been very exciting, which is great for the sport, and great for New Zealand where Eventing has even been getting ahead of the rugby in the news.”

Ironically, Jung, who won his Olympic gold medal thanks to a last-fence error by Sara Algotsson-Ostholt (SWE) at Greenwich Park last summer, has been training Paget during the winter and he was amused by the suggestion that he might have done too good a job. “I’ll be training with Jock now,” he joked.

The German, a popular new face at Badminton, was sporting in defeat. “Sam was jumping with a lot of power and I thought I had a good line to the last, but perhaps I was going too fast,” he said. “I am still very pleased with my second place and to be at my first Badminton.”

Eight nations were represented in the top 12 in one of the most international line-ups seen at any CCI4*, and 65 of the 84 starters completed the competition. There were 20 clear Jumping rounds without time penalties.

Ten years ago, Paget, 29, had not even ridden at an international event. He was an apprentice bricklayer in Sydney, Australia, when he first started riding. “I knew when I came to Badminton that I had two great horses and that I could win, but didn’t actually think I was going to,” said the modest Paget, who was also 14th on Clifton Lush. “Until now, I’d made a few little mistakes at CCI4* level but I kept knocking at the door. When I was a teenager, I watched Badminton on video, but the idea of winning it was certainly a distant dream.” The dream has now become a reality!

About the winner

Jonathan Paget (NZL) – known in the sport as Jock – has made a meteoric rise to stardom in Eventing. He only started riding at the age of 18 when he was an apprentice bricklayer in Sydney, Australia, his family having moved from New Zealand in 1986. He started training with Kevin McNab (AUS) in Queensland and progressed from never having jumped a fence to competing at CCI3* level in two years.

After the 2007 equine influenza outbreak in Sydney, Paget returned to New Zealand and started riding Frances Stead’s Clifton horses. His first CCI4* was Kentucky in 2010 where he was finished seventh and was subsequently selected for the Kiwi squad for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in 2010, where he again finished seventh individually on Clifton Promise.

Paget has been based in Dunsfold, in the south of England, working closely with senior New Zealand riders Mark Todd and Andrew Nicholson, since February 2011. He was part of the bronze medal New Zealand team at the London Olympic Games in 2012, finishing 10th on Clifton Promise.

His other CCI4* results include two fifth places at Burghley, in 2011 and 2012, on Clifton Lush, plus sixth at Kentucky and second at Pau last year on Clifton Promise. He is now second on the HSBC FEI Classics leaderboard.

Full results on www.badminton-horse.co.uk.

Watch FEI YouTube interview with Jock Paget: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXojw9-kOMA&feature=youtu.be.

Listen to interviews with:

Jock Paget: http://www.lloydbell.co.uk/access/client_zone/MMBHT_Paget_end.mp3

Michael Jung: http://www.lloydbell.co.uk/access/client_zone/MMBHT_jung_end.mp3

Andrew Nicholson: http://www.lloydbell.co.uk/access/client_zone/MMBHT_nicholson_end.mp3

William Fox-Pitt: http://www.lloydbell.co.uk/access/client_zone/MMBHT_foxpitt_end.mp3

View full standings here.

Join the FEI on Facebook & Twitter.

Our signature Twitter hashtags for this series are #HSBC and #Eventing. We encourage you to use them, and if you have space: #HSBC FEI Classics #Eventing.

By Kate Green

Mitsubishi Badminton Horse Trials Media Contact:

Julian Seaman
j.seaman2@sky.com
+44 7831 515736

FEI Media Contacts:

Grania Willis
Director Media Relations
Grania.willis@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 42

Ruth Grundy
Manager Press Relations
ruth.grundy@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 45

Eventing/H.T., Revolution Sports, Show Jumping

Jonathan Paget Wins Badminton Horse Trials, Holds Off Rolex Grand Slam Challengers Fox-Pitt & Nicholson

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Jonathan Paget riding Clifton Promise.

(Badminton, UK, 6 May 2013) Jonathan Paget (NZL), riding Clifton Promise, finished on his dressage score of 39.7 to beat Michael Jung (GER) riding La Biosthetique in 2nd place. Paget also held off the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing challenges from Andrew Nicholson (NZL) riding Nereo in 3rd place, and William Fox-Pitt (GBR) riding Parklane Hawk, who finished in 5th place. Sandra Auffarth (GER) riding Opgun Louvo finished in 4th place.

Rider Quotes

Jonathan Paget riding Clifton Promise

Q.  Congratulations – how are you feeling?

I’ve spent time with Michael and he is such a perfectionist. When he gets to the last fence you would never expect him to have it down and I heard the crowd cheer and I thought he’s a champion – he deserves it. And then I heard the “arrghh” and I thought “shoot, I think I’ve just won!”

Q. Your first four star – not a bad place to win it?

Yeah, and it’s the first time the horse has finished on his dressage score at a three day event. He’s always been the type of horse that pulls something amazing out when you need him the most and that’s what he did.

Q. What were you telling yourself as you were going into the ring?

Not much!  I went in and the only thing I had to remember was to salute and I just jumped one fence at a time.

Q. How did the round feel – it looked really fluid and easy – was it easy?

I don’t think it ever feels easy with the pressure, but he was amazing – he was jumping everything as hard as he could like he does and he never made a mistake – he was perfect.

Michael Jung riding Sam

Q. Michael, so close and so unlucky?

I could have been a little more controlled, but he jumped well and I am very happy about my first time here.

Q. How much of a disappointment to have last fence down?

Maybe I was a little bit too fast. He was really fresh; each fence was a lot of power. I had a good line to the last fence.

The whole week has been fantastic, I am very lucky to be here and very happy to finish in second place.

Q. Will you come back next year and have another go?

Maybe!  I would like to come to Burghley in September.

Andrew Nicholson riding Nereo

Q. Andrew, well done, great round, thoughts on the winner [Jonathan Paget]?

He’s a great boy – a great rider. It’s great for New Zealand to have someone like Joch in the wings here. It’s good for the likes of me and Mark who are getting on a bit to have ones like him from our country making us very alert and very focused.

Q. So for you there must be a little bit of disappointment and coming back again next year?

Yeah, it’s not the first time. I’ll be back again. I’m very happy with my horse’s performances.  I just think it has been great for the whole sport all week – I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of the ‘razzamatazz’ and the buzz of it all and I was just pleased that I could play my part until the end.

It would have been nice to win the $350,000 but I didn’t have it to start with, so I haven’t lost it have I!  Perhaps I’ll try and win Burghley and get the ball rolling again!

William Fox-Pitt riding Parklane Hawk

Q. William, that was very bad luck; how are you feeling?

Luck wasn’t quite on our side but he has performed so well all week with a reasonable amount of pressure from both me and externally – horses can only pick up on that a little bit and he has responded so well and to come out and perform like that is exciting and rewarding.

Q. Does it make you feel slightly better to know you couldn’t have won the Rolex Grand Slam anyway with Jonathan winning?

Yes, of course it does, definitely!  I couldn’t have won Badminton and the Rolex Grand Slam, with the two going together, but finishing fifth is great.  It is a big relief – it will be nice to return to life as normal – with the phone not ringing all the time and people wanting interviews!

It has been an exciting experience and I am very fortunate to have been able to enjoy it and hope it has done a lot for the sport and a lot for Rolex and a lot for Badminton.

Q. But it [Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing] can all start again in September at Burghley?

Yes, but if it starts again at Burghley then it will finish again here at Badminton – let’s not even talk about anything!  Let’s hope that Rolex carry on – there’s no guarantees – I hope that they continue their massive involvement with the sport, which has done so much to boost the sport.

Final Competition Results after Show Jumping

1 Jonathan Paget/Clifton Promise (NZL) 39.7
2 Michael Jung/Sam (GER) 40.0
3 Andrew Nicholson/Nereo (NZL) 40.2
4 Sandra Auffarth/Opgun Louvo (GER) 42.5
5 William Fox-Pitt/Parklane Hawk (GBR) 44.0

For more information on the 2013 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials and full Results/Leaderboard, please visit www.badminton-horse.co.uk.

Two Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing Contenders

With two of three successive wins of the Rolex Grand Slam – the 2012 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event and the 2011 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials – William Fox-Pitt is the current live contender of the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. Due to adverse weather conditions, the 2012 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials was unfortunately cancelled. Therefore, Fox-Pitt has had to wait until the 2013 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials before he can contend for the coveted US$ 350,000 Rolex Grand Slam Prize.

However, now that Andrew Nicholson, who won the 2012 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials has also accomplished the feat of successively winning the 2013 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, there are now uniquely be two live contenders for the sport’s most coveted prize at the 2013 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials.

Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing

In 2001, Rolex created the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. This trophy is awarded to the rider who manages to win the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials and the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials event in any consecutive order. Until now, only British rider Pippa Funnell has managed this staggering achievement, winning the title in 2003.

Revolution Sports + Entertainment
T: +44(0)207 592 1207
E: tim@revolutionsports.co.uk

Competitions, Polo

Audi Wins Thriller, Captures Grand Champions USPA Spring Challenge Title

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Piaget’s Gene Goldstein tries to avoid the defensive hook from Audi’s Grant Ganzi as he hits the ball. Photos – Scott Fisher.

Veteran Juan Bollini Named MVP

WELLINGTON, FL – May 5, 2013 — In a wild finish, Marc Ganzi converted a 40-yard penalty shot to clinch Audi’s 11-10 shootout victory over Piaget to capture the marathon USPA Spring Challenge Sunday at Grand Champions Polo Club.

After six regulation chukkers and two nail-biting overtime minutes with the game still tied at 10-10, the championship final went to a shootout just before sunset.

Grant Ganzi and Gene Goldstein just missed their 40-yarders. Audi’s Nic Roldan and Lucas Lalor then gave Audi a 2-0 shootout lead after Martin Estrada’s attempt hit the goal post. Piaget’s Brandon Phillips converted his shot, cutting the Audi lead to 2-1, setting up Marc Ganzi’s heroics.

“No pressure at all, none,” Ganzi said with a smile.

“This is totally the way to end the game, competitive and friendly,” Ganzi said. “This is what we are trying to accomplish here. Everyone knows everyone.

“You get to a point where we can’t play an eighth chukker,” Ganzi said. “We have played seven chukkers; there aren’t any more horses for an eighth so this was the fairest way to settle it.

“It comes down to the last shot. Someone’s got to make it and someone’s got to miss.”

Nic Roldan of Audi tries to keep the ball in play with Audi teammate Lucas Lalor backing him up and Piaget's Brandon Phillips and Juan Bollini charging on defense
Nic Roldan of Audi tries to keep the ball in play with Audi teammate Lucas Lalor backing him up and Piaget’s Brandon Phillips and Juan Bollini charging on defense

Audi’s winning team featured father-and-son Marc and Grant Ganzi, Nic Roldan and Lucas Lalor.

Roldan and Lalor each scored four goals; Grant Ganzi added another goal and Audi picked up a handicap goal.

Piaget’s Juan Bollini, who led his team with four goals in the last three chukkers of regulation time, and returned to the game after getting whacked with a polo ball during sudden death, was named Most Valuable Player.

At the 1:17 mark of sudden death, Bollini was inadvertently hit on the shoulder blade by a Roldan rocket sending Bollini off his horse, writhing in pain on the field. He was attended to by medical personnel and his son, Juancito, while his pony rode off on the adjacent field before safely returning to a horse trailer.

It was Bollini who sparked his team’s rally and just missed scoring the game-winner in sudden death. Bollini’s back was wrapped with cellophane over an ice pack to reduce swelling and relieve the pain.

“I feel good; I will live,” Bollini said. “The final was really fun. It was a really tight game. Everybody had a chance to win it. It’s always competitive against Marc.”

For Piaget, Brandon Phillips scored three goals, Estrada had two and Gene Goldstein added one goal.

Rhapsodia, ridden by Goldstein, was named Best Playing Pony.

Ganzi was not only thrilled with the victory but also the opportunity to play alongside his son.

“It’s good to play with him; he is learning at a rapid pace,” Ganzi said. “He has a lot of skill. Now he’s got to learn at this level with these guys that go this hard, the time and the space on the field. He can make every shot. He’s a great horseman and becoming a great polo player. Now he has to learn to play different speeds.

“He’s learned how to play 8-goal, 12-goal and now he played a game today at 14 goals that was probably played at 18-20 goal speed. Everyone on the field was a skilled player today. This is the way to learn. This is how the young kids in Argentina learn. This is the way he has to learn.”

Ganzi, a freshman at St. Andrew’s School, played well throughout the two-day tournament and enjoyed being mentored by his father and other players including Roldan and Bollini.

“It was a crazy game,” Grant Ganzi said. “I’m really happy we won. It was a tough game. The second half we played really well. Penalty shots are not the way I wanted to end because overtime is always more fun.

“Of course, I am having fun and I am really pleased with the way I am playing. I want to get better and improve in the sport, and learn more and more. I want to play better polo and that’s what I am doing here.

“It’s always fun playing with my dad. It worked out well. Nic was very helpful, too. He helped me change something in the second half. I realized what he was saying and it helped a lot.”

Added Bollini, “Grant is playing well and that’s important to me. Grant is like my son and to see him improve in every single game is most important.”

ELG's Avery Chapman goes for the big hit with teammate Carlucho Arellano backing him up
ELG’s Avery Chapman goes for the big hit with teammate Carlucho Arellano backing him up

Pony Express, led by another father-son team, Bob and Justin Daniels, won the consolation title. Glenn Straub of Palm House won his first MVP honor at Grand Champions.

The exciting day of polo featured nine chukkers of round robin play between Pony Express, Palm House and ELG and seven-chukker final.

In one of the most competitive spring circuits at Grand Champions, Audi is the third different champion in three tournaments. ELG/Psycho Bunny won the Palm City Open and Power Horse won the Polo Gear Invitational.

“It’s been very competitive,” Ganzi said. “Last year Pony Express won four out of five tournaments and this year they haven’t taken a trophy yet. The caliber of horses is getting better. The pros are competitive. Everything starts pretty friendly on Friday and then on Sunday everybody wants to win.”

The remaining Grand Champions spring tournaments are the May 10-12 USPA Sun Cup; May 17-19 USPA Eastern Challenge; and May 24-27 Memorial by Piaget.

GRAND CHAMPIONS SPRING SCHEDULE

May 10-12: The USPA Sun Cup

May 17-19: USPA Eastern Challenge

May 24-27: The Memorial by Piaget

GRAND CHAMPIONS POLO CLUB

WHERE: On the corner of South Shore Boulevard and Lake Worth Road, Wellington.

INFORMATION: There are great field side views for tournament action at the home base of pro teams Audi and Piaget. Everyone is welcome to watch polo in a relaxed atmosphere during the spring and fall tournament season and other special events including the International Cup in November, Buzz Welker Memorial Junior Tournament in March, Women’s Championship Tournament and Gay Polo League International Tournament, both in April.

Sharon Robb for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
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*Featured/Spotlights, Eventing/H.T.

Cross-Country Day at So8ths/Nikon HOTC Three-Day Event

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Kathy Viele and Matariki. Photos by Diana De Rosa.

It was another exciting day at Southern 8ths Farm for the So8ths/Nikon Three-Day Event in the “Heart of the Carolinas,” on Saturday, May 4.  Beginner Novice, Novice and Training level riders challenged a course designed by well-known course designer Tremaine Cooper and built by Tyson Rementer.

Leading the way in the Beginner Novice division after combining both their Dressage and Cross-Country scores were Kathy Viele and Matariki with their low score of 33.40. This was Kathy’s first time at Southern 8ths Farm and she was pleased. “This is one of the nicest venues. More people should know about this,” commented Kathy.  As a longtime Eventer, Kathy was also pleased with all that she learned from her fellow competitors.

Novice rider Sarah Zimmer and Mardi Gras held onto their lead claimed after the Dressage after negotiating and fault free Cross-Country (30.70).  After Sarah came off the course for the second year in a row her beaming smile was evident.  “I love the course,” she noted. “This event is so well organized.”

Sarah Zimmer and Mardi Gras
Sarah Zimmer and Mardi Gras

Taking over the lead in Beginner Novice was Sara Miles riding Misty’s RainDrop with her score of 37.80.

Once the riders took the time to ensure their horses were comfortable they started to prep for Sunday’s Show Jumping by walking the course with the course designer Marc Donovan.

That evening they enjoyed a barbeque filled with a variety of contests including a fun Nikon Photo Contest where competitors used Nikon consigned cameras to take pictures that had to include the words Nikon in the image.

There was also a special Sponsor Hat Contest where each person showcased one of the sponsors on their hats and enjoyed displaying their hats in a dancing parade.  Wendy McCaughan of Kanteq, one of the sponsors, was also a winner in the hat contest for her own sponsor hat creation.

The special event of the evening was the choosing of who would be the winner of the Volunteer Competitor Special Prize.  Those present were asked to put the name of volunteers they felt went above and beyond.  From those names Southern 8ths Farm owner Brad Turley held the bucket from which the final winner was pulled.  The camera was handed to a well-deserved Gay Glenn who was shocked but thrilled.

Sara Miles and Misty’s RainDrop
Sara Miles and Misty’s RainDrop

Sunday, May 5 is the final day of this year’s event. After Show Jumping the final winners will be named and be presented with a Nikon D3200 Camera Kit as well as numerous other sponsored gifts.

To keep up with what is happening, visit these links: www.so8ths.com, www.facebook.com/so8ths; http://www.youtube.com/user/So8ths/; for photos check out the 2013 folder at www.tinyurl.com/presslink-so8ths.

Competitions, Eventing/H.T.

Superb Jung Leaves Opposition Standing at Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials

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Michael Jung and La Biosthetique Sam FBW, leaders after the Cross Country at the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials (Photo: Kit Houghton/FEI).

Lausanne (SUI), 5 May 2013 – The huge crowd at the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials (GBR), fourth leg of the HSBC FEI Classics, roared home Michael Jung (GER), cheering loudly at the finish of the Cross Country to show their appreciation of a true horseman.

However, although the Olympic, World and European champion has retained his lead on La Biosthetique Sam FBW after the first two phases, he will need all his famous reserves of calm tomorrow. He does not have a fence in hand over New Zealander Jock Paget, who was immaculate on Clifton Promise and lies in second place.

The two Rolex Grand Slam contenders, William Fox-Pitt (GBR) on Parklane Hawk and Andrew Nicholson (NZL) on Nereo, have moved into closer contention in third and fourth places, still separated by just 0.2 of a penalty after faultless performances.

Badminton is the world’s oldest and richest CCI4* and attracts more than 150,000 spectators on Cross Country day, the most 30-year-old Jung has encountered in his career so far. “There are so many people here and they lift you over the fences,” he said happily. “The atmosphere is fantastic. I have wanted to come here since I was a young boy, so to be in this position feels amazing.”

Jung, who had a refusal at the skinny brush at the top of the Savills’ Staircase (fence 22) on his first ride Leopin, also had a nervous moment on Sam. The 13-year-old gelding twisted over the imposing timber into Badminton’s famous Lake (fence 9) and landed facing in the wrong direction for the two small brush fences which came next, with Jung close to completely losing his reins.

The crowd gasped loudly, but somehow Jung, showing amazingly quick reactions, managed to set his horse back on track. “I gave him time to find his balance again and it was fine,” he said, apparently not at all fazed by this near miss.

The pair finished 14 seconds inside the optimum time of 11 minutes 13 seconds, despite taking a long route at the Staircase this time.

Jung’s Olympic team mate Sandra Auffarth was equally impressive on her Badminton debut and she is now in fifth place on Opgun Louvo, having added just 1.2 time penalties.

Stefano Breccarioli (ITA) produced the ride of his life on the elegant Apollo VD Wendi Kurt Hoeve, having clearly benefited from the advice of his mentor Andrew Nicholson, and he is now in sixth place with six time penalties, his best Cross Country result at CCI4* level.

“I am very happy,” said Brecciaroli excitedly afterwards. “I was trying very hard. The competition is so exciting, and the atmosphere fantastic. I’m feeling very proud to be at the top of the leaderboard with Olympic champions.”

Sam Griffiths (AUS) has moved up three places to seventh, ahead of Nicholson on Avebury, the only rider with two horses in the top 12.

Hugh Thomas’s Cross Country course jumped exceptionally well, with 69 clear rounds and more than 25% of the field – 25 riders – finishing inside the optimum time thanks to the perfect going.

“The ground is superb and the course felt lovely to ride,” said Nicholson, who coped with the hazard of being chased by two different dogs during his round on Avebury. “It helped sharpen Avebury up. He probably thought I’d arranged it on purpose!” he joked.

Not everyone made the track look quite so easy, however, and there were some high-profile mistakes. Kristina Cook (GBR) gave notice that the new HSBC Market Place complex (fence 21) would be influential when Du Novo News ran out at the second open corner, and William Fox-Pitt with first ride Oslo and Mark Todd (Ravenstar) also had problems here.

Dirk Schrade (GER), third after Dressage on King Artus, retired when the horse refused at the rails into the Lake (fence 9), while fellow Germany Kai Rüder (Le Prince des Bois) and Britain’s Zara Phillips (High Kingdom) both ran past one of the small brush fences in the Lake.

The latter seems to be perpetually unlucky at Badminton and is yet to better her 16th place in 2008. “I made a mistake and you pay the price,” Phillips said. “It’s frustrating after all the hard work, but he’s such a great horse.”

Pippa Funnell, who had done such a fantastic job to bring Redesigned back to top level after three years on the sidelines, had an even more frustrating run-out, at the top of the Savills Staircase. It cost her fifth place at this stage.

Susanna Bordone (ITA) was unseated when Blue Moss hit the rails going into the Shogun Hollow (fence 18) and Bettina Hoy (GER) was unshipped when Lanfranco TSF twisted over the final element of Huntsman’s Close (fence 7).

Mary King (GBR) continued unawares after Kings Temptress took out the flag at the open corner at the Rodney Powell Products Farmyard (fence 13), but the Ground Jury reviewed the CCTV footage and decided that she had not jumped between the flags so she was stopped.

William Fox-Pitt, who timed his Cross Country round to perfection on Parklane Hawk, finishing one second inside the optimum time after opting for a cautious route at fence 21 this time, conceded that he may be facing an uphill task in his pursuit of Grand Slam glory in tomorrow’s Jumping phase.

“There’s no way it’s going to be a normal day at Badminton with so much at stake,” he said cheerfully. “Even if I jump clear on Parklane Hawk – and that certainly isn’t guaranteed – I’m still relying on others to make mistakes, and that isn’t very likely either. Especially as this chap [Michael Jung] doesn’t make many!”

Don’t miss a hoofbeat. Follow the live action on www.feitv.org.

Follow live results: www.badminton-horse.co.uk.

View full standings here.

Join the FEI on Facebook & Twitter.

Our signature Twitter hashtags for this series are #HSBC and #Eventing. We encourage you to use them, and if you have space: #HSBC FEI Classics #Eventing.

By Kate Green

Mitsubishi Badminton Horse Trials Media Contact:

Julian Seaman
j.seaman2@sky.com
+44 7831 515736

FEI Media Contacts:

Grania Willis
Director Media Relations
Grania.willis@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 42

Ruth Grundy
Manager Press Relations
ruth.grundy@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 45

*Featured/Spotlights, Eventing/H.T.

Michael Jung Holds Off Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing Challengers at Badminton Horse Trials

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Michael Jung riding La Biosthetique Sam.

(Badminton, UK, 5 May 2013) Michael Jung (GER) riding La Biosthetique Sam remains in 1st place after the Cross-Country phase at the 2013 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials. Jonathan Paget (NZL) riding Clifton Promise is in 2nd place, with Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing challengers William Fox-Pitt (GBR) riding Parklane Hawk in 3rd place, and Andrew Nicholson (NZL) riding Nereo in 4th place.

Rider Quotes

Michael Jung riding Sam

Q. Michael, superb round – you’ve managed to do it so far!

Yes, we had a little mistake at the first water but the good thing is that the water was in the beginning and not in the end so he was fresh enough to manage everything and he was directly after the mistake he to listen to me what you have to do now and the rest of it was really perfect.

Q. How do you feel when something like [the mistake] that happens?

That’s cross country! For 11 minutes in the cross country and not everything working on the correct way but I am very happy!

Q. Here you are maintaining the lead to tomorrow?

He is in very good form. He is very fresh at the end and he is ready for tomorrow.

Q. How did he feel coming over the finish?

Amazing!  The spectators help on the last jumps – they lift you over the last fences and its wonderful when you gallop the ten minutes through the course as everywhere are spectators – it’s really special.

Q. Will Sam be up to the Show Jumping after today?

Yes, he’s in really good form – he was fresh at the finish and I hope we are lucky enough for tomorrow.

Q. So you could spoil the Rolex Grand Slam party?

Maybe, yes!

Jonathan Paget riding Clifton Promise

Q. Jonathan – that looked amazing?

I was grateful to have another great horse to ride around this morning to help set me up for the horse that has such great dressage. Luckily for me I am on two great gallopers and jumpers – two New Zealand thoroughbreds so they know their job.

Q. How does this horse fare with the Show Jumping – is he careful?

He is careful, but I have never yet finished on my dressage score in a three day, but he is very careful and it wouldn’t surprise me if he jumped clear

William Fox-Pitt riding Parklane Hawk

Q. William, a great opportunity for you now exists [for the Rolex Grand Slam] – how are you feeling?

I’m feeling delighted. That was better, wasn’t it? He was class round there and pleasure to ride – he’s such a galloping machine. As I’ve said all along, I’d wished for the ground to be soft and muddy so then he would have done the time when some of the others wouldn’t as he’s such a good galloper – he’s breed to race.

He felt fantastic at the end and I knew I had to be quite close to the time and I know that I am exactly four points behind Michael – so IF Michael were to have a fence down and IF I was to jump clear it would have been really annoying to know I had been going a bit too fast today so very, very fortunate that Michael was a little bit quicker – but hey he’s got to go and jump the jumps tomorrow and he’s got to be OK after today.

This is a Rolex dream isn’t it – it’s not the riders dream!

Q. Well it could be a big earner, potentially?

I’m not even thinking about that – you’ve got to jump the blinking show jumps, you’ve got to trot up, there’s so far to go – that’s not his strongest phase but he’ll hopefully do his best.

Q. Any ‘heart in mouth’ moments going round there today?

No, not really. I think the course was more interesting to ride than it walked. A few of the strides didn’t come up you expected. The only time where he didn’t go exactly as I planned was where I did two little strides coming out of the pond – and that’s not like him, he would normally be a brave long striding horse so it’s rather good to know he can be a bit clever and nimble because he is brave as a lion.

Andrew Nicholson riding Nereo

Q. Another great round Andrew?

He was very, very good. He pulled really hard when he normally doesn’t pull, but with William finishing just before I started and the crowd cheering, which is quite right – he just got a little bit excited and he was pulling quite hard for five minutes which was probably just makes me huff and puff a bit!

Q. Nevertheless you were round within the time?

He does the time very easily. He lost a shoe, which made turning into the last corner a bit skiddy and slippery but he jumped it ok.

Q. Where you aware of losing the shoe on the way round?

Yes, you know pretty quickly, especially when the grass is green and you slide a little bit, but they get the hang of it.

Q. Does it take a certain amount of expertise to keep the horse balanced?

Ah, he’s got four legs hasn’t he – that’s his job – I just steer him!

Q. So, an enormous amount of pressure on you going into the Show Jumping tomorrow?

Yes, we’ve had it all week – you’ve just got to do what you’ve got to do. I’ve got two nice jumpers. Nereo has moved up, Avebury has moved up – it’s another day!

Results after Cross Country

1 Michael Jung/Sam (GER) 36.0
2 Jonathan Paget/Clifton Promise (NZL) 39.7
3 William Fox-Pitt/Parklane Hawk (GBR) 40.0
4 Andrew Nicholson/Nereo (NZL) 40.2
5 Sandra Auffarth/Opgun Louvo (GER) 42.5

For more information on the 2013 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials and full Results/Leaderboard, please visit www.badminton-horse.co.uk.

Two Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing Contenders

With two of three successive wins of the Rolex Grand Slam – the 2012 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event and the 2011 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials – William Fox-Pitt is the current live contender of the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. Due to adverse weather conditions, the 2012 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials was unfortunately cancelled. Therefore, Fox-Pitt has had to wait until the 2013 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials before he can contend for the coveted US$ 350,000 Rolex Grand Slam Prize.

However, now that Andrew Nicholson, who won the 2012 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials has also accomplished the feat of successively winning the 2013 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, there are now uniquely be two live contenders for the sport’s most coveted prize at the 2013 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials.

Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing

In 2001, Rolex created the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. This trophy is awarded to the rider who manages to win the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials and the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials event in any consecutive order. Until now, only British rider Pippa Funnell has managed this staggering achievement, winning the title in 2003.

Revolution Sports + Entertainment
T: +44(0)207 592 1207
E: tim@revolutionsports.co.uk

Competitions, Polo

Audi, Piaget Play for USPA Spring Challenge Championship Sunday at Grand Champions Polo Club

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No. 1 Martin Estrada of Piaget keeping the ball in play in the air. Photos – Scott Fisher.

WELLINGTON, FL – May 4, 2013 — Audi and Piaget will meet in Sunday’s championship final of the USPA Spring Challenge at 5 p.m. at Grand Champions Polo Club.

It will be the third tournament title on the line in the Grand Champions Polo Club 2013 spring circuit.

ELG, Palm House and Pony Express will play in the subsidiary cup round robin beginning at 3:30 p.m.

Piaget, led by Martin Estrada’s four goals, advanced into the championship with a thrilling 9-8 sudden death victory over Palm House on Brandon Phillips’ game-winner at the 5:40 mark in overtime.

Palm House was led by Tommy Biddle with three goals.

No. 4 Tommy Biddle of Palm House avoids the mallet of No. 3 Juan Bollini of Piaget
No. 4 Tommy Biddle of Palm House avoids the mallet of No. 3 Juan Bollini of Piaget

Audi won the three-team round-robin by most goals scored. Audi won its opening game with an 8-6 victory over Pony Express. Marc Ganzi and Nic Roldan each had three goals and Grant Ganzi added two. Tomas Goti led Pony Express with three goals.

Audi and ELG tied in the third round robin game, 4-4, but Audi advanced with a total of 12 goals. Marc Ganzi, despite a broken thumb, again led scoring with two goals. Roldan and Grant Ganzi each had one goal. Carlucho Arellano led ELG with two goals.

In the other round robin, Pony Express defeated a strong ELG team, 6-3. Teenager Justin Daniels led scoring with two. Bob Daniels, Tomas Goti and Pancho Eddy each had one. Pony Express also got a handicap goal.

Kris Kampsen of ELG saw his two-tournament win streak end when ELG was eliminated from championship final play. He was a member of the winning ELG/Psycho Bunny team that won the season-opening Palm City Open and played for the winning Power Horse team in the Polo Gear Invitational.

Palm House could win its second consecutive subsidiary title. The team is coming off its consolation game victory, 4-3 over ELG where Alejandro Poma of Palm House was named MVP. It was team captain Glenn Straub’s first consolation title.

No. 2 Carlitos Gracida of Palm House retains possession despite No. 3 Juan Bollini of Piaget defending and No. 4 Gene Goldstein looking on
No. 2 Carlitos Gracida of Palm House retains possession despite No. 3 Juan Bollini of Piaget defending and No. 4 Gene Goldstein looking on

The teams, rated from 10 to 14 goals, are:

Audi Polo Team, 14 goals, Grant Ganzi, Marc Ganzi, Nic Roldan, Lucas Lalor.

Pony Express, 10, Bob Daniels, Justin Daniels, Tomas Goti, Pancho Eddy.

ELG, 13, Sue Gengras, Juancito Bollini, Carlucho Arellano, Kris Kampsen.

Palm House, 13, Glenn Straub, Carlitos Gracida, JJ Celis, Tommy Biddle.

Piaget, 14, Martin Estrada, Brandon Phillips, Juan Bollini, Gene Goldstein.

The remaining Grand Champions spring tournaments are the May 10-12 USPA Sun Cup; May 17-19 USPA Eastern Challenge; and May 24-27 Memorial by Piaget.

GRAND CHAMPIONS SPRING SCHEDULE

May 3-5: USPA Spring Challenge

May 10-12: The USPA Sun Cup

May 17-19: USPA Eastern Challenge

May 24-27: The Memorial by Piaget

GRAND CHAMPIONS POLO CLUB

WHERE: On the corner of South Shore Boulevard and Lake Worth Road, Wellington.

INFORMATION: There are great field side views for tournament action at the home base of pro teams Audi and Piaget. Everyone is welcome to watch polo in a relaxed atmosphere during the spring and fall tournament season and other special events including the International Cup in November, Buzz Welker Memorial Junior Tournament in March, Women’s Championship Tournament and Gay Polo League International Tournament, both in April.

Sharon Robb for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

*Featured/Spotlights, Dressage, Eventing/H.T.

Michael Jung Leads Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials

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Michael Jung riding La Biosthetique Sam.

(Badminton, UK, 4 May 2013) Michael Jung (GER) riding La Biosthetique Sam is in 1st place after the Dressage phase at the 2013 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials. Stefano Brecciaroli (ITA) riding Apollo VD Wendi Kurt Hoeve is in 2nd place, with Dirk Schrade (GER) riding King Artus in 3rd place. Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing prize contenders William Fox-Pitt (GBR) riding Parkland Hawk is lying in 5th place, with Andrew Nicholson (NZL) riding Nereo in 6th place.

Rider Quotes

Michael Jung riding Sam

Q.  Michael – that looked great – how was it?

My horse was very concentrated and I feel it in the warm up – he’s very relaxed and concentrate to me and not to the spectators – I can ride him and touch him to the legs OK and he feels really good.

Q. Any difficult moments?

Yes, just in the walk and the stop and rein back. Yes, ok he is a little bit nervous but I think it was very good for the horse for this stadium.

Q. What about tomorrow – what are your thoughts on this particular horse?

I think it’s a very, very nice cross country – you have long ways – you can go really fast forward and you can have time enough to prepare the next jump. It’s a really good building from the course designer. You have a few jumps to go into the course and many tricky fences but I think we can see a very nice course.

Q. What will you do tonight?

Eat, drink, relax and then have fun tomorrow!

Andrew Nicholson riding Nereo

Q. Andrew – quite a good mark – how was the test – did you feel it went as well as it could have done?

The walk isn’t the easiest – naturally he hasn’t got a brilliant walk, just with the photographers and the clicking of the cameras it got him a little jig joggy and it make the rein back a bit quicker than it should be, but otherwise I thought he was very good.

Q. Quite a few riders have mentioned the clicking on the cameras – is that more unusual?

That’s part of these big events – now I suppose there are more taking photos – it’s all noticeable, but just part of the sport. If the wind was perhaps blowing in a different direction then you never know, but it’s part of it all and you’ve just got to take it as it is.

Q. At the moment we believe you are lying into 6th place – what are you feeling now on the whole competition, trying to win your first Badminton and the Rolex Grand Slam prize?

“What score is Michael on?” He’s on 36.0. “And what am I on?”  40.3. “It’s near enough!”

I don’t like being in the lead after the dressage – I was in the lead after the dressage here once before and I finished second. And I was in second place in Kentucky last week and then won – so I’ll stick to that!

Q. What are you going to do now?

I’ve pretty thoroughly walked the cross-country course and know where I’m going on there. The horses will just be worked a bit tomorrow and then we’ll come out and scorch around there!

William Fox-Pitt riding Parklane Hawk

Q. William – are you disappointed with the mark, did you feel you did better?

I’m very pleased with Parklane Hawk – he did a lovely test. It’s a shame that he made a bit of a fluff of the rein back – we don’t normally do that. I think it was just nerves and the excitement and you’ve got all the cameras this year right behind them. I could feel him not really focusing on me and he lost his focus of attention for a second – but he came back really well and I was very, very pleased with how he went.

Q. You mentioned the cameras – does it still effect such experienced horses?

I think not normally it would. He is a thoroughbred horse, a sensitive horse – for my other horse Oslo it probably wouldn’t affect him at all – he is a real show-off and would have benefitted from a good blasting wind and a few more people cheering because he is that sort of horse. Whereas Parklane Hawk would definitely have felt it a little bit. But he has done three majors and coped very well with them – he’s got a very good brain.

Q. You held it together in there nevertheless, so what about tomorrow?

I’m looking forward to tomorrow – it will be an exciting day. I am looking forward to riding both my horses around Badminton – neither of them have done Badminton before, but both are really up for the challenge and are fit and well.

We are hoping that it is a tough course – I certainly am, especially not being in the lead after the Dressage myself, so I shall be hoping it causes plenty of trouble!

Q. I have to mention the Rolex Grand Slam – is it on your mind at all?

Once the dressage is over – you’ve got to do your best – the order has been set and you just have to get on with it. I think now what will happen will happen – they’ve definitely put up a challenge out there and let’s hope it proves one!

Results after Day 1 Dressage

1 Michael Jung/Sam (GER) 36.0
2 Stefano Brecciaroli/Apollo VD Wendi Kurt Hoeve (ITA) 36.8
3 Dirk Schrade/King Artus (GER) 39.2
4 Jonathan Paget/Clifton Promise (NZL) 39.7
5 William Fox-Pitt/Parklane Hawk (GBR) 40.0

For more information on the 2013 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials and full Results/Leaderboard, please visit www.badminton-horse.co.uk.

Two Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing Contenders

With two of three successive wins of the Rolex Grand Slam – the 2012 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event and the 2011 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials – William Fox-Pitt is the current live contender of the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. Due to adverse weather conditions, the 2012 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials was unfortunately cancelled. Therefore, Fox-Pitt has had to wait until the 2013 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials before he can contend for the coveted US$ 350,000 Rolex Grand Slam Prize.

However, now that Andrew Nicholson, who won the 2012 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials has also accomplished the feat of successively winning the 2013 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, there are now uniquely be two live contenders for the sport’s most coveted prize at the 2013 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials.

Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing

In 2001, Rolex created the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing. This trophy is awarded to the rider who manages to win the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials and the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials event in any consecutive order. Until now, only British rider Pippa Funnell has managed this staggering achievement, winning the title in 2003.

Revolution Sports + Entertainment
T: +44(0)207 592 1207
E: tim@revolutionsports.co.uk