Top 10 horses pass trot-up at Badminton Horse Trials
All of the top 10 horses going into the showjumping phase at the 2011 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials were passed fit to jump in the final horse inspection this morning.
Lucie McNichol withdrew Zeus Of Rushall from 30th place overnight, while Aoife Clark did not present Vaguely North (22nd). Flora Harris decided to withdraw Law Choice (19th) from the holding box.
There was an uncomfortable moment for William Fox-Pitt when he was asked to trot Navigator a second time by the ground jury, but he was then accepted. William was also asked to trot Navigator twice at the first horse inspection on Thursday.
This leaves 56 horses to contest the final showjumping phase later today.
Eye-catchers
Badminton final scores
Among the many eye-catchers were Lenamore and Prada, who both needed to be anchored by their respective riders, Caroline Powell and Lucinda Fredericks. Comanche also belied his 18 years as he towed James Robinson along.
The crowd showed their appreciation for the delightful Opposition Buzz, who was as beautifully turned out as Nicola Wilson in her stylish grey/green coat. Georgie Spencer and Lauren Shannon also looked particularly elegant in long coats.
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Bright red socks were sported by Paul Tapner, while Buck Davidson chose a spotted variety of the same.
The final rider to present, Mary King, brought laughter to proceedings when she lost the heel of her shoe while trotting up a fresh Imperial Cavalier. As usual, Mary took the setback in good grace to the crowd’s delight.
Join in our live coverage of the showjumping phase from11am this morning at www.horseandhound.co.uk/badminton2011live/
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Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.