Burghley victory for Lucinda Fredericks

Australia’s Lucinda Fredericks clinched the £45,000 2006 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials first prize. Aboard the 15.3hh mare Headley Britannia, Fredericks rode a stunning show jumping round, cleanly clearing every obstacle.

Rolex Grand Slam contender Andrew Hoy was lying in pole position after the cross-country but 12 show jumping penalties cast him into second place — costing him the $250,000 pledge.

After winning team bronze in the World Equestrian Games in Aachen two weeks ago, Australian riders have once again proved their prowess. Australia’s Shane Rose jumped a professional looking clear with All Luck — particularly impressive as he was allegedly still playing drinking games at 3am this morning. Rose’s result earned him third place and Australia the top three places on the leader board. Top 10 places also went to Australian riders Andrew Hoy on his second ride Mr Pracatan, Sam Griffiths and Matt Ryan.

An elated Lucinda Fredericks told the audience afterwards how much a win at Burghley means to her. “I’m 40 and it has taken me this long to ride a good cross-country round at four-star level,” she said. Her husband Clayton, who was forced to retire on the cross-country after a nasty fall, fought back tears as Lucinda was presented with the Burghley trophy. “Lucinda had great disappointment a few weeks ago when she wasn’t selected to represent Australia at the World Equestrian Games – this is just fantastic,” he said.

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