Polly Jackson was forced to re-route her second Burghley ride, Two for Joy at the last minute on Saturday, as news came through that Bumble Thomas’ European individual prospect The Psephologist had been withdrawn. Jackson will fill Thomas’ place at the FEI Petplan Blenheim European Championships next weekend.
Thomas and The Psephologist had their final canter in preparation for the championships on Friday morning, and the gelding was not 100% sound on recovery. British team vet Jenny Hall explained that their job was to send out horses and riders in tip-top shape, and The Psephologist had not looked quite right.
Jackson and Two for Joy will make their squad debut at Blenheim. The combination finished fourth there last year, and completed Badminton earlier this year. In spite of his diminutive status — the gelding is a mere 15.2hh — Polly describes him as a cross-country machine, and the duo will certainly give their all to ensure their European rivals have a run for their money.
