Latest from Horse & Hound in Shane-rose

‘He’s an amazing horse’: Paris marks final championship for eventing hero after 13 years at the top

Lucy Elder — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 12:12:41 +0000

Virgil, Shane Rose’s five-star and Tokyo team silver medal-winning ride has bowed out from senior championship duties after a solid Olympic swansong in Paris.

Shane, who came back from serious injury to ride at the Games, confirmed after the Olympic eventing team showjumping final that this would be Virgil’s last championship.

The 19-year-old gelding won five of his seven international outings between Tokyo and Paris, where their credible performance for the Australian team resulted in 20th place individually.

“He’s an amazing horse. He’s done a lot. This is his sixth occasion in Europe and back to Australia,” said Shane, his voice choking with emotion.

“We’ve really had a championship focus with him. We’ve looked after him.

“We’ve just ticked him over. We’ve prepared for championships. He’s come over to Europe and done five-stars like Pau and Burghley and Luhmuhlen trying to get to championships, but I haven’t needed to try and back him up at multiple three-day events throughout his career in a year, and I think that’s probably helped.

“He’s a beautiful type of horse, he’s put together well, he’s got good feet. I think he’s always done things within himself. So I think that’s helped his career, but you know, there’s not many horses that can be a four-star horse for 13 years.”

He added: “Use it or lose it. That’s certainly how it’s been with him. We’ve kept him in work, and just maintained his health and it’s repaid.”

Alongside their Olympic performances, the pair represented their country at the 2018 and 2022 World Championships. Virgil, who Shane owns with his wife Niki and Michelle Hasibar, made his five-star debut at Adelaide in 2015 and finished second. They would return to win the Australian five-star eight years later.

Their remarkable CV includes 16th at Burghley in 2016, seventh at Lumühlen in 2017 and third at Pau in 2019, and 16 wins from 49 international starts. What the future holds for this eventing titan is not yet decided, but Shane was clear that Virgil “doesn’t like to sit around”.

Eventing is a partnership and in Shane, Virgil had an unshakable ally. For Shane to even reach Paris given the extent of the injuries he sustained in a training fall just four months ago was a Herculean achievement.

“I guess I’m pretty determined,” said Shane, adding there was “not really” a moment he thought getting to these Games would not happen.

“There were probably a couple of moments where I was hoping to be better than I was along the journey, but they were maybe a couple of times and fleeting moments. I felt like every day I’ve improved incredibly, even since arriving here. I think I’ve improved in the week I’ve been here.

“I’ve had a lot of people supporting me to get here. I certainly couldn’t have done it without all their help. If you want to do something, there’s a way to do it.”

He added: “It’s a pretty good motivating factor, trying to get to the Olympic Games. I felt like I had an important job to do to help the team and I feel like I’ve done my bit. It would have been great to finish without the pole down. But I’m really proud of my horse. He’s done an amazing job.”

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‘My injury is irrelevant’: Aussie star recovers from 19 fractures and a month in a wheelchair to contest Olympics

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‘My injury is irrelevant’: Aussie star recovers from 19 fractures and a month in a wheelchair to contest Olympics

Martha Terry — Sat, 27 Jul 2024 11:57:54 +0000

Just four months ago, Australian event rider Shane Rose was lying in intensive care following a fall in training, with 19 fractures to the pelvis, femur, elbow and ribs plus severe concussion. After surgeries and an intensive rehab programme, including time in a wheelchair, Shane Rose has kicked off his tilt at the Paris Olympics with a 34.6 score in the first phase. But for Shane, this career-threatening injury and remarkable comeback are firmly in the past.

“I’m not thinking of the journey I’ve been on,” says Shane. “I’m here to produce a performance at the Games. The fact that I was injured is irrelevant. My job is to do the best job I can for the team and I feel like I’m in a good position to do that. I feel as strong as I need to be – stronger than I’ve probably ever been as I’ve done a lot of rehab.”

Shane and his 19-year-old partner Virgil missed a flying change in their Olympic eventing dressage test, which cost them dearly.

“I was happy with parts of it; he stayed forward and his frame was really good, but it was disappointing he kicked up in the second change,” he said. “They gave us a very short amount to get into the arena, and the stewards were standing in my way, so I started on the back foot. But there’s a lot to do out there tomorrow – dressage is not my strong suit on this horse. So I’m excited for the next couple of days.”

This is the 51-year-old’s fourth Olympic Games, and he has already taken home two team silvers and a team bronze. Not only is Shane fighting fit, but his championship stalwart is in “the best shape of his life”.

“He’s been over and back six times now to Europe,” said Shane. “He’s a pretty uncomplicated horse. He’s put together really well and we haven’t run the legs off him. He’s done a lot of miles and a lot of competitions, but we’ve looked after him along the way. You look after them and they repay the favour.”

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‘Back on board’: Paris Olympic hopeful returns to the saddle following serious injury

Becky Murray — Tue, 21 May 2024 12:08:47 +0000

Australian three-time Olympic eventing medallist Shane Rose has returned to the saddle nine weeks after he was seriously injured in a fall.

“He is back on board!”, said Shane’s team in an update yesterday (20 May) alongside a video clip of him getting on Virgil, with whom he won team silver in Tokyo.

On 14 March Shane suffered a badly broken femur and pelvis, for which he needed surgery. He also sustained a heavy concussion and broken ribs.

Shane’s team has been sharing regular updates on his condition, and emphasised from the beginning that the Paris Olympics are still the goal.

This month he began “intensive strength and condition sessions” while staying at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra, and a spokesman said Shane’s medical team had worked together and developed a programme that will give him “the best chance of recovering in time to pursue his Olympic ambitions”.

The Games will be Shane’s sixth Olympics, and his second with Virgil. The 19-year-old gelding, with whom Shane was 13th individually at the eventing World Championships in 2022, has been kept ticking along by Shane’s wife Niki. The team recently shared clips of Virgil in exercise, describing him as “fit, well and looking forward to having Shane back, although Niki might be reluctant to give him back.”

The first day of the Olympic eventing competition is 27 July. Yesterday the British eventing nominated entries were revealed, the 12 horse and rider combinations vying for a place on the final team of three, with one alternate. The final squad will be announced in late June.

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Injured medal-winning rider begins rehab with eyes still on Paris Olympics

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Seriously injured Olympic rider ‘continues to improve’ in hospital – with hopes still on Paris

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Olympic eventer in intensive care following cross-country schooling accident

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Injured medal-winning rider begins rehab with eyes still on Paris Olympics

Becky Murray — Fri, 03 May 2024 19:16:35 +0000

Australian medal-winning rider Shane Rose has begun rehabilitation for his significant injuries, as he keeps his eyes on his sixth Olympic Games.

On 14 March Shane was injured in a cross-country schooling accident, which resulted in surgery for a “badly broken” femur and fractured pelvis. He also suffered a “heavy” concussion and broken ribs in the fall.

At the time a spokesman for Shane said “while the timing is unfortunate we are hopeful there is adequate time for him to recover and still be able to continue his preparation schedule for Paris”.

In an update today (3 May) Shane’s team announced he has “moved into the rehabilitation phase of his recovery”, and has become a resident at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.

“His current daily life comprises intensive strength and conditioning sessions and medical treatments,” said the spokesman, adding that Shane has been “very fortunate to receive outstanding medical care since his accident”.

“He is very thankful to the New South Wales Institute of Sport, the Australian Institute of Sport and the Equestrian Australia high performance program, who have all been incredibly supportive and ensured he has access to the best doctors, physiotherapists and recovery treatments.”

The spokesman added that Shane’s medical team have worked together and developed a program that will give him “the best chance of recovering in time to pursue his Olympic ambitions”. The first day of the Olympic eventing competition is 27 July.

“Shane is motivated and working hard with the aim of being back in the saddle later this month,” he said.

Shane is a three-time Olympic medallist and Paris 2024 would mark his sixth Games. He won team silver with All Luck at Beijing in 2008, team bronze on CP Qualified at Rio 2016, and was part of the silver medal-winning team with Virgil in Tokyo.

Seriously injured Olympic rider ‘continues to improve’ in hospital – with hopes still on Paris

Becky Murray — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 15:29:36 +0000

Australian Olympic eventer Shane Rose “continues to improve each day” as he remains in hospital following a cross-country schooling fall.

The three-time Olympic medallist underwent surgery last week for a broken femur and fractured pelvis, sustained in the fall on 14 March. The horse Shane was riding was not injured.

“It has been a week since Shane’s accident and he continues to improve each day. Shane is very thankful for all the love and support he has received,” said a spokesman for the rider today (21 March).

“He is still in hospital and will remain there for the coming days. Shane’s injuries were extensive; a broken femur, fractured pelvis, fractured elbow and numerous fractured ribs. Shane has been operated on to repair the femur and pelvis, he will be on bed rest for at least a month then he will begin his rehabilitation.”

The spokesman added that Shane and his team are “still optimistic” that the injuries will not prevent him from competing at the Paris Games. The first day of the Olympic eventing competition is 27 July.

“Shane and Virgil are qualified and hopeful that Shane will be able to return to the saddle, prove his fitness and gain selection as a part of the Australian eventing team,” said the spokesman.

“Thanks once again for the support. It has been much appreciated.”

Shane and 19-year-old gelding Virgil were part of the silver medal-winning team at Tokyo, alongside Kevin McNab riding Don Quidam and Andrew Hoy with Vassily De Lassos.

A week before his accident, Shane won the Land Rover Horse Show of the Year CCI4*-S in New Zealand, with Virgil, on 7 March.

Olympic eventer in intensive care following cross-country schooling accident

Becky Murray — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 11:35:39 +0000

Australian Olympic eventer Shane Rose has undergone surgery for a broken femur and pelvis following a cross-country schooling accident.

Shane, who won the Land Rover Horse Show of the Year CCI4*-S with 19-year-old Virgil in New Zealand last weekend, was injured in the fall yesterday (14 March).

“As the saying goes peacock one day, feather duster the next. After a fantastic week in New Zealand where Shane and Virgil secured their Olympic qualifications, this week Shane was brought back down to earth literally,” read a statement from Shane’s team.

“During a cross-country schooling session yesterday Shane suffered a nasty fall. Thankfully his horse was not injured.”

The spokesman said Shane was in the intensive care unit with a “badly broken femur and a fractured pelvis and ribs”.

“He also suffered a heavy concussion. Shane had surgery this morning to stabilise the femur and pelvis,” he said, adding that Shane is in “good hands with a great medical team and support network”.

“While the timing is unfortunate we are hopeful there is adequate time for him to recover and still be able to continue his preparation schedule for the Paris Olympic Games.

“We are so thankful to the fantastic team at home who have stepped up in Shane’s absence to ensure it was business as usual at Bimbadeen Park. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

Shane Rose is a three-time Olympic medallist. He was on the team that won silver with All Luck at Beijing in 2008, and bronze on CP Qualified at Rio 2016, and in Tokyo he was part of the silver-medal winning team with Virgil, alongside Kevin McNab and Don Quidam and Andrew Hoy and Vassily De Lassos. The Paris Games will be Shane’s fourth Olympics.

‘Storm in a teacup’: board member resigns over Olympic rider’s mankini review

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 17:51:12 +0000

The chairman of Equestrian Australia’s (EA) integrity committee has resigned over the manner in which the organisation dealt with the “storm in a teacup” caused by Shane Rose’s wearing a mankini in a fancy dress class.

H&H reported yesterday (19 February) that Olympic medal-winning eventer Shane had been temporarily stood down from competition months before the Paris Olympics, while EA reviewed a complaint about his costume in an eventers versus showjumpers jumping competition.

Thousands of people signed a petition in support of Shane, and EA announced yesterday its review had concluded, finding Shane had not breached EA and high-performance codes of conduct.

“I’d like to make it clear I fully support Shane and don’t agree with the manner this trivial situation has been handled,” he said. “At no point was the issue brought to my attention before Shane was stood down.

“I believe we should work on the principle of innocent until proven guilty. And in relation to these specific allegations, I want to be clear: Shane wasn’t accused of anything serious, such as mistreating a horse or cheating, misappropriating funds or abuse – but rather a simple matter of decorum. I have no problem with the way he dressed during a fancy dress competition.”

Mr Palmer said there was “clearly a disconnect” between himself and the position EA took.

“Therefore I have tendered my resignation from the board, effective immediately,” he said. “Hopefully this storm in a teacup is shut down fairly quickly and without further delay, and allows Shane to focus on preparing for the Paris Olympics. Best wishes to Shane.”

An EA spokesman told H&H: “Equestrian Australia has a very capable board that we’re confident will continue to lead the sport through to Paris and beyond. We thank Mr Palmer for his contribution and wish him well for his future endeavours.”

Thousands back Olympic rider after ‘complaint’ about him jumping wearing a mankini

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 11:16:03 +0000

Equestrian Australia (EA) has concluded its review of Olympic eventer Shane Rose’s wearing of a mankini in a fancy dress showjumping class – after thousands of riders came out in Shane’s support, and more mankinis may be seen next year.

Yesterday (18 February) EA announced that it was reviewing Shane’s dress at the Wallaby Hill Equestrian Extravaganza on 11 February. Shane, who was on the Australian team that won silver at the 2021 Olympics, came into the ring in the eventers v showjumpers class three times, firstly dressed as himself, then as the Aussie team vet, then in the mankini.

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EA said yesterday “concerns had been raised” about the costume, adding: “As with any high performance athlete, Shane is bound by the high performance and Equestrian Australia codes of conduct and athlete agreement. Equestrian Australia has an obligation to address these concerns and is currently reviewing the matter.

“To be clear, Shane has not been suspended or sanctioned. As is usual in these circumstances for all high performance athletes, he has been stood down from competition for several days while the review is carried out.”

Over the weekend more than 15,700 people signed a petition in support of Shane; the petition stated that mankinis can be seen on “many an Aussie beach”, and the Sydney Mardi Gras celebrations.

“He brought entertainment and interest to the class and he made people smile. This was the purpose of the event,” the petition states. “Sadly someone complained, and now Equestrian Australia has suspended Shane, impacting his preparations for the Paris Olympics.”

EA said its review should take “no more than a matter of days”, and today’s statement said the review had concluded, having found that Shane had not breached the code of conduct.

EA CEO Darren Gocher said: “Equestrian Australia has an obligation to look into any concerns of this nature that comes from the community.

“Having now thoroughly reviewed the incident and spoken to relevant parties, Equestrian Australia has confirmed that there was no breach of the code of conduct by Shane Rose.

“We take the recommendations on board and will move quickly to ensure the relevant actions are taken. Our sport is made up of wonderful individuals and we have plenty to look forward to in the year ahead.

“Shane has reflected on the incident, has apologised and understands the high standards expected of everyone involved in our high performance program. With the matter now resolved, Shane and his teammates are now looking forward to continuing to focus their attention on qualifying for Paris.”

The recommendations had included that EA should work with clubs and stakeholders to “assess minimum dress standards”.

Shane said today: “Big thank you to everyone for your support. I’m pleased that the Equestrian Australian review has been completed and I have been reinstated and allowed to continue my campaign towards the Paris Olympic Games. The support and interest in this story has been like nothing I have experienced before.

“Now it is time to focus on the job ahead and try to get Australian Equestrian in the media for a more positive reason, an Olympic gold medal. Thanks again the support has been huge and much appreciated.”

“Next year at the Wallaby Hill extravaganza, to embrace Shane’s sense of humour, we will be donating a mankini to all spectators,” director Chris Pennells wrote. “And to support men’s health, we will be donating $100 for each spectator who has a sense of humour and tries to outdo Shane.

“I hope all spectators get behind this amazing event and represents the #RosePoseMankini at next year’s extravaganza.”

Australia heads to Pratoni with Olympic medallists aiming for more glory

Lucy Elder — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 15:13:40 +0000

The Australian Tokyo Olympic medal-winning team is among the squad that will contest the 2022 World Eventing Championships in Italy next month.

Equestrian Australia (EA) has revealed its squad of five, plus three reserves. Its selection panel, in consultation with the chef d’equipe, will select the team of four and one individual from the squad either at, or before, the first horse inspection in Pratoni (15 to 25 September).

Andrew Hoy (Vassily De Lassos), Kevin McNab (Scuderia 1918 Don Quidam) and Shane Rose (Virgil), who secured team silver at last year’s Olympics, are named as part of Australia’s World Championship squad for 2022.

The full squad, plus reserves, from which the Australian team and individual will be selected for the 2022 World Eventing Championships are as follows:

Andrew Hoy with 13-year-old gelding Vassily De Lassos

Owners: Paula and David Evans

Groom: Clémentine Girardeau

Shenae Lowings with 12-year-old gelding Bold VentureOwner: riderGroom: Olivia Barton

Kevin McNab with 14-year-old gelding Scuderia 1918 Don Quidam

Owners: Scuderia 1918 and Kevin’s wife, Emma McNab

Groom: Lucy Hartley

Kevin has also been selected with direct reserve ride, 15-year-old gelding WillungaOwners: Samia Murgian and Emma McNabGroom: Lucy Hartley

Shane Rose with 17-year-old gelding Virgil

Owner: Shane’s wife Niki Rose, and Michelle Hasibar

Groom: Jamie Atkinson

Hazel Shannon with 17-year-old gelding Willingapark CliffordOwner: Terry SnowGroom: Bronte Buttel

Reserves:

Sammi Birch with 12-year-old gelding Finduss PFBOwner: Parkfield BreedingGroom: Helen Tagg

Sam Lyle with 12-year-old gelding BF ValourOwner: Charlotte MavrisGroom: Natalya Bretherton

Jessica Rae with 14-year-old mare Fifth AvenueOwner: riderGroom: Laura Munt

Shane Rose with 10-year-old mare Easy TurnOwners: Angela Shacklady and Niki RoseGroom: Jamie Atkinson

It is 16 years since Australia won its last world eventing medals, when Clayton Fredericks took individual silver with Ben Along Time and the Australian team won bronze at Aachen in 2006.

Andrew Hoy, who is on this year’s squad with his Tokyo individual bronze and team silver medal-winning ride Vassily De Lassos, was part of the Australian team that won bronze in 1986 with Just James, and Master Monarch in 2006, where Australia again collected team bronze.

This will be a first senior championship for Hazel Shannon and Shenae Lowings.

EA high performance director Chris Webb said that the breadth of experience is an “indication of the strength of Australia’s developing talent”.

“It is fantastic to see not only our successful Tokyo 2020 eventing team medallists named, but also combinations who are making their FEI World Championships debut, demonstrating the depth of our eventing talent,” he said.

“Furthermore, Sam Lyle and Jessica Rae, who have been named on the reserves list, recently travelled overseas with the support of the EA high performance program and subsequently had the opportunity to compete on a Nations Cup team at Haras du Pin, providing them with valuable team experience that will benefit their future championship campaigns.”

Changes to the top in the opening rounds of the cross-country at the Tokyo Games

Becky Murray — Sun, 01 Aug 2021 01:06:22 +0000

The opening rounds of the Olympic eventing cross-country at the Tokyo Games asked plenty of questions as riders tried to follow in Oliver Townends’s footsteps – as Alex Hua Tian drops out of the top three.

Following Oliver and Ballaghmor Class’ faultless round across Derek de Grazia’s challenging course, the next clear came from fifth to go Shane Rose and Virgil for Australia who finished on their dressage score of 31.70.

The United States’ Doug Payne and Vandiver jumped clear but picked up 6.8 time-penalties to finish on 39.8 and said he “couldn’t have been prouder”.

“He probably has the biggest heart of any horse I’ve had the opportunity to work with and, although a bit unconventional at times he tries his heart out.”

Swiss rider Felix Vlogg and Colero picked up 11 penalties after triggering the frangible pin at part B of fence 18, Bumps and Stumps. The pair also picked up 0.8 time penalties.

Japan’s Kazuma Tomoto and Vinci De La Vigne moved up the leaderboard from their overnight seventh place to fourth after finishing on a jumping clear on the Olympic eventing cross-country but added 1.6 time-penalties to finish on 27.50.

Overnight third-placed Alex Hua Tian picked up a disappointing 12 penalties dropping out of the top three but he was delighted with his ride Don Geniro, having taken the direct routes on all approaches.

“I’m really proud of him” said Alex. “He was great for the first six minutes and I was down a bit at the beginning, I was there or thereabouts at six minutes, maybe five seconds down and I thought if I can just keep travelling, keep going then we might just sneak in. He started flagging as I thought he would do in the heat, and I had to help them a bit at the last couple of combinations, and we just lost time.”

Alex added his advice to his teammates was to “go for it”.

“Look after your horses. Come home safe,” he said. “It’s only going to get hotter. The other two horses are much more blood than Don is. I think they will have a good time. We have a safe strategy for the team so the aim is to finish with three riders today.”

Tales from Tokyo: ‘The good thing about bones is they heal – generally’

Polly Bryan — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 06:25:42 +0000

Australian event rider Shane Rose, currently competing at the Tokyo Olympics, has broken more bones in his body than perhaps it is fair for one man to break.

“I’ve broken most things: both my arms, both my legs, hands, both rib cages, my shoulder,” reels off Shane.

“I got golden staph [Staphylococcus aureus] after I broke my ribs and punctured a lung and tore my liver apart; that was pretty awful,” he adds. “I also have eight plates in my face – I got kicked after I got myself into a bad position with a horse, and pretty much smashed everything from the bottom up. I used to be beautiful looking, but now not so much! But the good thing about bones is that they heal – generally.”

It’s just as well that they do, and that Shane is an incredibly tough and resilient sportsman, otherwise he certainly would not be standing here on day one of the Tokyo Olympic eventing, having just ridden a 31.7 dressage on the 16-year-old Vivant gelding Virgil. But he reveals that the vast majority of his injuries have not been incurred while competing, and he is thankful for that.

“I have only done two [breaks] competing – the mental scars are much harder when you do that. Whereas if you get kicked in the face you’re being silly really, you’re in a position you probably shouldn’t have been, and so it’s easier to come back from that sort of thing.

“It’s just part of being around horses – they’re dangerous animals so you’ve got to look after yourself. But once [injuries] are done, they’re done. You move on and can’t really think about it too much, just try to learn from your ways,” continues Shane, adding that he is “quite particular” about how he walks behind a horse nowadays, after his facial injury.

Shane Rose may now have ridden at three Olympics, including Tokyo – winning team silver and bronze in Hong Kong and Rio respectively – as well as four World Equestrian Games, but his main “day job” is actually breaking and training racehorses in New South Wales, Australia.

“We have a pre-training, breaking and spelling [resting racehorses] farm and we break in a bunch of horses for some really nice trainers,” he explains. “We have another property for spelling that is very close to being finished.

“It’s a busy thing, but I like being busy. We work 50 or 60 in a morning before we start doing the eventers later on in the afternoon. But we’re really lucky that we have some awesome staff who make things happen at home.”

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Rider selected for eighth Olympics, plus horse injury plays a part in team selection

Pippa Roome — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 10:01:36 +0000

Andrew Hoy is set to extend his own record for Olympic appearances, having been selected for the Tokyo Games this summer.

The 62-year-old rider was the only Australian to have competed at seven Olympics after he rode at London 2012 and he has now been chosen for the team for Tokyo, with the reliable Vassily De Lassos.

Andrew said he is looking forward to representing Australia at his first Olympic Games since becoming a father to daughter Philippa, three, and one-year-old son Oscar, as well as riding a horse he believes may be one of the best of his career.

“To represent Australia at international level over so many years has been the greatest privilege and honour of my life,” he said. “I have never set out to break records on my number of Olympic Games participations – I am just a country boy from Culcairn, who loves his horses, has a huge passion for our sport and thrives on being competitive at the top end.

“I have been fortunate to have had wonderful support from so many people over the years, as you can never do this alone. It is a huge team effort and I am so grateful for everyone’s support.

“There is nothing that beats the feeling of wearing the green and gold and being part of a team of incredible athletes – going on to the biggest sporting stage in the world – and all wanting to make Australia proud. In Vassily De Lassos, owned by David and Paula Evans, I have got one of the best horses I have had in my whole career – so let’s hope the best is yet to come.”

The full Australian Olympic eventing team for the Tokyo eventing is:

Chris Burton on Claire Poole’s Quality Purdey (groom Coriander Cousins)
Andrew Hoy on David and Paula Evans’ Vassily De Lassos (groom Clémentine Giradeau)
Shane Rose on his own, his wife Niki and Michelle Hasibar’s Virgil (groom Rachel Watts)

The alternate rider is:

Stuart Tinney on his own and his wife Karen’s Leporis (groom Karen Tinney)

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Irish Olympic eventing squad named for Tokyo

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Changes to Britain’s nominated eventing entries for Tokyo Olympics

The selectors have made several changes to the British Olympic eventing entries following recent competitions

(Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Stuart had been considered a favourite for the team with Elisabeth Brinton’s Celebration, but announced this week that an “unforeseen paddock injury” had ruled the horse out.

Stuart said this was “unimaginable news” in a “very tough few days” for him and the owners.

“‘Charlie’ has an amazing future, he is still young, so we consider this only to be a minor timing setback and we are looking forward to his return immensely,” he said, adding that he looks forward to supporting the team in his role as alternate and wishes them luck.

As is traditional, the Australian Olympic eventing team mixes riders based in Britain (Andrew and Chris) with those based Down Under (Shane and Stuart).

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find out more about getting the magazine delivered to your door every week.

Farewell to Olympic medal-winner: ‘He was a complete athlete and a complete gentleman’

Pippa Roome — Wed, 04 Nov 2020 11:16:26 +0000

All Luck, Shane Rose’s ride on the Australian silver medal-winning team at the 2008 Olympics, has died, aged 26.

The ex-racehorse – known as “Lucky” – finished third at Burghley Horse Trials with Shane in 2006, having travelled to Europe to represent Australia at the World Equestrian Games in Aachen but retired across country.

He produced the fastest cross-country round – the only one with time-faults in single figures – at the 2008 Olympics in Hong Kong, where he was joined in the team by Kirby Park Irish Jester (Megan Jones), Ben Along Time (Clayton Fredericks), Ringwould Jaguar (Sonja Johnson) and Headley Britannia (Lucinda Fredericks).

All Luck: ‘Worth the risk’

Lucky was bought by the Roses in partnership with Shane’s long-time supporter Angela Shacklady from Ebony Tucker in Victoria through renowned agent Sharon Ridgway, who has been responsible for numerous top partnerships in Australia and abroad, including in Britain, where William Fox-Pitt is a regular client.

Shane’s wife Niki tried the horse as Shane had broken his leg and told him he had to buy the horse.

“He failed the vet check and was a windsucker but it was decided he was worth the risk and was purchased anyway,” said Shane.

Paying tribute to the horse who won nine times at international level in Australia, Shane said: “Lucky was as good as they get, he was a complete athlete. He had very good paces on the flat, careful and brave in his jumping and so very trainable with a super attitude. Around the stables he was a complete gentleman.”

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(Image credit: Trevor Meeks)

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Shane Rose has endured exceptional physical hardship to get to Rio. But here he is, and he rode a blinder

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H&H interview: Australian eventer Shane Rose H&H Plus

The Australian event rider talks about returning from multiple injuries, being based down under and the build-up to Tokyo

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Lucky retired from eventing in 2009 and spent the next few years as a dressage horse with Judy Horder.

“He will be dearly missed, we were so very lucky to have had Lucky in our lives,” added Shane.

British three-star first-timer comes out on top at Blair Castle Horse Trials

Pippa Roome — Sun, 27 Aug 2017 19:47:18 +0000

Hazel Towers achieved a CCI3* victory on her first attempt at the level today at the Blair Castle Equi-Trek International Horse Trials, confirming her win with one showjump down.

None of the seven remaining in this class showjumped clear, but Hazel and Simply Smart’s four faults at the first part of the treble at fence 10 left them four penalties clear of runner-up Louise Harwood (Balladeer Miller Man).

“Winning this class means everything – all the hard work has paid off,” said Hazel.

Louise had fence eight down and three time-faults, but held second. Alice Dunsdon and Sambo III dropped a rank to fourth with eight faults, while last year’s CCI2* winners Caroline Clarke and Touch Too Much pulled up one spot to third when just 10c fell for them.

CCI2*

Australia’s Shane Rose scored his second win of the afternoon after taking the Event Rider Masters when he showjumped clear to overhaul Emily King in the CCI2*.

Shane’s ride was Gurtera Cher, who he has been riding instead of the injured Sam Griffiths.

“I’m excited for her future with Sam as I think she’s a proper four-star horse for him and you can never have enough of them,” he said.

Emily and Walitze F Vejgard just hit the wavy planks at fence four to drop to second.

Oliver Townend jumped out of order on Tregilder, who was seventh overnight, and ended up finishing third on him, while his fourth-placed ride Khoi Traveler dropped to seventh with two down.

“I couldn’t be happier with him,” said Oliver of seven-year-old Tregilder, who he has ridden since he was four.

Continued below…

More eventing news:

Teenager wins Blair Castle CIC3*: ‘I think my horse shed a tear as well!’

Shane Rose claims an Aussie first at Blair as Gemma Tattersall secures ERM series title

Wow! Watch this rider replace his lost bridle during his showjumping round

CCI*

Emily Parker jumped clear to win the CCI* with David Mactaggart’s Highly Delighted. She was second overnight, but moved up when overnight leader Carlos Parro took the back rail off the oxer at fence three to drop to third with Sir Digby.

“He wasn’t enjoying the sticky ground outside, so I wasn’t that confident, but he jumped as well as he could have on the conditions,” said Emily.

US rider Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp was also fault-free to move up from sixth to second on Gorsehill Cooley.

“He’s for sale now and you couldn’t ask for a more genuine jumper,” said Elisabeth.

Full report from Blair in H&H next week (issue dated 31 August).

Shane Rose claims an Aussie first at Blair as Gemma Tattersall secures ERM series title

Pippa Roome — Sun, 27 Aug 2017 15:06:13 +0000

Shane Rose and Chris Burton became the first Australians to finish on the Event Rider Masters (ERM) podium when they scored a one-two in the ERM at the Blair Castle Equi-Trek International Horse Trials.

Shane moved up to third by showjumping clear this morning on his own and Michelle Hasibar’s Virgil II and then took top spot by finishing cross-country with just 2.8 time-faults.

“Chris and I walked the course together and felt the ground was worst from fences two to five. He was really clagged [tired] at fence four, but once he was in the gravel in the woods he travelled well and except for fence four — which was a bit wild — that’s as good a ride as I’ve had on him,” said Shane.

Chris had the fastest round — just two seconds over the optimum time — to take second on the syndicate-owned Graf Liberty.

“He’s always been a very competitive horse and the highlight is his cross-country,” said Chris. “Shane didn’t have the best start in Britain this year [he lost his father and had Shanghai Joe put down after he was injured at Badminton] and now he’s heading home, so I’m so happy for him — it couldn’t have gone better in my opinion.”

Oliver Townend took third on Angela Hislop’s Cooley Master Class, just ahead of fellow Brit Gemma Tattersall, whose fourth place here on Clive Smith’s Pamero 4 secured her the series title ahead of the final leg at Blenheim.

“It’s an incredible feeling to have it wrapped up here — I can go to Blenheim and really enjoy it riding one my favourite horses, Chico Bella P,” said Gemma.

Continued below…

More eventing news:

Wow! Watch this rider replace his lost bridle during his showjumping round

Teenager wins Blair Castle CIC3*: ‘I think my horse shed a tear as well!’

New faces lead Blair CCI3* after cross-country: ‘She’s just an Irish bog pony’

This morning’s showjumping shook up the leaderboard, with all the top three after dressage leaving the podium.

The leader, Germany’s Niklas Bschorer (Tom Tom Go 3), had the Land Rover oxer at fence two down as well as a later upright, plus three time-faults, to drop to eighth (he finished 14th with 26 time-faults across country), while Mark Todd’s three down and two time-penalties sent him and Kiltubrid Rhapsody plummeting from second to 16th.

“He’s usually a very good jumper, but he’s better on firmer ground where he can spring off it as he’s a big horse and slow in his action,” said Mark, who then withdrew.

Franky Reid-Warrilow led going into the cross-country after a showjumping clear and finished sixth with Dolley Whisper after clocking up 16.4 time-faults.

Full report from Blair in H&H next week (issue dated 31 August).

Craig Barrett wins Adelaide on his first completion at four-star

Pippa Roome — Tue, 27 Nov 2012 11:08:59 +0000

Craig Barrett won the final four-star of 2012, at Adelaide, Australia, last weekend (22-25 November).

Riding 10-year-old mare Sandhills Brillaire (pictured), Craig — a 42-year-old professional rider from New South Wales — became the first person to simultaneously win a four-star and take the HSBC training bursary for a first completion at the level.

This victory was particularly special for Craig and his wife — Australian performance director Prue Barrett — because they bred both Sandhills Brillaire and both her parents.

Craig bred the mare’s sire, Staccato — by Salute out of a thoroughbred mare by King Of Babylon — and Prue bred her dam, by Galveston. Staccato, now 20, also sired last year’s Adelaide winner Panamera, ridden by Stuart Tinney.

“I don’t know if that has ever been done before”, commented Craig. “I have a paddock full of them; I’m not sure if they are as good as Brillaire, but we have to look at purpose breeding horses.”

Craig’s win places him second in the HSBC FEI Classics standings, behind Burghley winner Andrew Nicholson.

Small field

Just 14 four-star combinations started at Adelaide, after one was lost at the first horse inspection. This was slightly disappointing as while this event has long had smaller entries than the northern hemisphere CCI****s, there were 31 starters in both 2011 and 2009, although 2010 and 2008 were smaller years with 19 combinations apiece. The Horseland CCI** was well supported with 54 starters.

Shane Rose led the CCI**** after dressage on 45.8 with APH Moritz, with Craig Barrett second on his other ride Wendela Jamie and Stuart Tinney third on Pluto Mia.

Wayne Copping’s cross-country track was shortened by about 30sec in deference to the expected high temperatures on cross-country day, while organisers also ordered extra ice and water trucks and installed water-spraying archways and sprinklers for cooling the horses.

Stuart Tinney was the first rider to fall foul of the bogey fence at 13 — a triple brush arrowhead sited in water just a stride after the horses came off a dark island shrouded in shadows from trees.

British technical delegate Alec Lochore explained: “There was definitely something the horses didn’t quite understand. Some horses jumped it beautifully, but it was more than just a coincidence that six horses ran out to the side. It could have been the jump into water, or the light and the shade.”

Craig also had problems here on Wendela Jamie, while Shane retired after two stops elsewhere on course.

Remarkably, just two of the starters managed clear jumping rounds, with Craig’s 0.8 time-faults on Sandhills Brillaire propelling him up the order ahead of Natalie Blundell, who had 5.6 time-penalties on Algebra. Murray Lamperd — one of three to complete with 20 jumping penalties — moved up to third on Under The Clocks.

Eight horses completed the cross-country, with one failing to make it through the final trot-up. None of the remaining seven showjumped clear, but the leading three all held their positions, with Craig’s one fence down and three time-faults the best performance.

20,000 spectators

A number of British-based riders were at Adelaide offering course-walks and masterclasses, including William Fox-Pitt, Andrew Hoy, Sam Griffiths, Christopher Burton, Clayton Fredericks and Paul Tapner.

Event director Gillian Rolton declared the event an outstanding success, with nearly 20,000 people attending across the four days.

“The Australian International 3-Day Event has continued to prove itself as one of the world’s greatest equestrian events, with spectators treated to world-class riding over three, action-packed days,” she said.

Gillian added that the local South Australian Government and Adelaide City Council are both now fully behind the event, which takes place in parks in the centre of the city.

“Running this event is a huge commitment, but we need an event of this stature in this country,” she said.

Australian eventer Shane Rose out of Olympics after injury to Taurus

Pippa Roome — Sun, 22 Jul 2012 13:40:14 +0000

Australian eventer Shane Rose has been ruled out of the Olympics due to an injury to his ride, Taurus.

Shane tweeted: “Devastated…..however it is not in Arvey’s best interest to compete in the Olympic Games this time.”

Shane will be replaced by Megan Jones on Kirby Park Allofasudden – who will be known as just Allofasudden for the Games because horses’ names are stripped of their commercial links. Megan travelled from Australia with the horse a couple of weeks ago.

The Australian Olympic Team website reports that the decision had been left late “to provide Rose and Taurus with every opportunity to get their start at the Games.

“But after extensive veterinary examination and monitoring, [team vets] have deemed the horse not recovered sufficiently to withstand the extensive pressure of the Olympic Eventing competition,” it says.

Equestrian section manager Brett Mace said: “This is not uncommon… for a horse to sustain an injury of this nature close of a major campaign and while the injury is not serious, there is just not enough time for recovery with just under a week to go.

“There is no doubt this is a blow for the team and we feel for Shane who has worked for many years preparing Taurus for these Games. He is a hard working athlete who was a formidable part of our silver medal Beijing team.

“But we had to take the advice of our vets in relation to performance and also horse welfare and therefore Megan Jones and Allofasudden will be added to the team. Megan has been working with her horse to ensure they are competition ready. She has the experience and proven track record to make it at this level of competition after finishing with a team silver medal and fourth individually at Beijing.

“The team now needs to focus on finalising preparation, and while Shane will be a loss, we feel our medal chances remain just as strong.”

The Australian eventing team move into Greenwich on Tuesday and the first day of eventing dressage is next Saturday, 28 July.

The Australian Olympic Team website also says that the last times reserves were substituted into the eventing team was in 1992 and 1996, when Gillian Rolton stepped into the teams. On both occasions the teams went on to win team gold medals. Gillian is on the ground jury for this Olympics in London.

Don’t forget to buy the second part of Horse & Hound’s Olympic preview, out Thursday, 26 July – including a form guide to all the horses and riders and pictures of the cross-country course.

Appeal against Australian eventing team dismissed – but it’s not over yet

Pippa Roome — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 10:50:21 +0000

Equestrian Australia has confirmed that the appeal against the London Olympic eventing team selection has been dismissed.

This isn’t necessarily the end of the issue though, as riders have 48 hours to decide whether to take their appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Last week the Australian Olympic eventing team was announced as Andrew Hoy (Rutherglen), Christopher Burton (Holstein Park Leilani), Clayton Fredericks (Bendigo), Lucinda Fredericks (Flying Finish) and Shane Rose (Taurus), but athletes lodged an appeal within the 48-hour permitted period, which was heard by an independent tribunal.

It is not known which rider or riders protested, although Sam Griffiths said online that there were three objections.

Appeal against Australian eventing team for London Olympics

Pippa Roome — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 09:37:59 +0000

There has been an appeal against the Australian eventing team chosen for the London Olympics.

Andrew Hoy (Rutherglen), Christopher Burton (Holstein Park Leilani), Clayton Fredericks (Bendigo), Lucinda Fredericks (Flying Finish) and Shane Rose (Taurus) were nominated to the Australian Olympic committee for selection this morning at 8am, after the names were revealed on Wednesday.

However, Equestrian Australia has confirmed in a press release “that during the 48 hours given to athletes to appeal against the nominated team, athletes have lodged an appeal which will be heard by an independent tribunal in due course. The final team selections will be advised by the Australian Olympic Committee.”

Neither Equestrian Australia nor the Australian Olympic Committee are making any further comment until the appeals process has run its course.

It is not known which rider or riders appealed, but forum speculation this morning centres around bias towards riders based in the northern hemisphere. All but Shane Rose of the riders named are based in Britain.

The difficulties of selecting a team when the potential candidates never compete against each other on a level playing field because they live so far apart has long been an issue for both Australia and New Zealand. For this Games, New Zealand has chosen to run its high performance programme from Britain and it’s likely that the whole Kiwi team will be British-based.

Discuss this in the H&H forum

Lucinda and Clayton Fredericks make Australian Olympic eventing team

Pippa Roome — Wed, 20 Jun 2012 10:32:34 +0000

The Australian eventing team for the 2012 London Olympics has been announced:

Andrew Hoy and Rutherglen
Christopher Burton and Holstein Park Leilani
Clayton Fredericks and Bendigo
Lucinda Fredericks and Flying Finish (pictured)
Shane Rose and Taurus

Lucinda and Clayton Fredericks are the first – and likely to be the only – married couple to be named for an eventing team for London. They were both on the silver medal-winning Australian team at the 2008 Olympics in Hong Kong, as was Shane Rose.

Lucinda and Andrew Hoy both made late bids for selection with eye-catching results at Luhm ¼hlen last weekend. Andrew is a six-time Olympian (1984, 1988, 1992, 1996, 2000, 2004), triple Olympic team gold medallist (1992, 1996 and 2000) and an individual silver medallist (2000).

Listen to Lucinda talk to Chris Stafford Radio about being selected

Podcast by Chris Stafford Radio

Listen to Andrew talk to Chris Stafford Radio about being selected

Podcast by Chris Stafford Radio

Christopher Burton, who rode on the Australian squad at the 2010 World Equestrian Games, makes his Olympic debut. He has shown excellent form recently, including doing a one-two at Saumur CCI***, with his named horse Holstein Park Leilani finishing second to Haruzac.

The Australians are expected to be serious medal contenders at the Games.

The obvious omissions from the team are Sam Griffiths on Happy Times and Paul Tapner on Inonothing and twitter is abuzz with talk about their non-selection this morning.

The selection process allows athletes a 48-hour period to lodge an appeal against the nominated team and the final team selections are expected to be confirmed by the Australian Olympic Committee on Friday.

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At the time a spokesman for Shane said “while the timing is unfortunate we are hopeful there is adequate time for him to recover and still be able to continue his preparation schedule for Paris”.

In an update today (3 May) Shane’s team announced he has “moved into the rehabilitation phase of his recovery”, and has become a resident at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.

“His current daily life comprises intensive strength and conditioning sessions and medical treatments,” said the spokesman, adding that Shane has been “very fortunate to receive outstanding medical care since his accident”.

“He is very thankful to the New South Wales Institute of Sport, the Australian Institute of Sport and the Equestrian Australia high performance program, who have all been incredibly supportive and ensured he has access to the best doctors, physiotherapists and recovery treatments.”

The spokesman added that Shane’s medical team have worked together and developed a program that will give him “the best chance of recovering in time to pursue his Olympic ambitions”. The first day of the Olympic eventing competition is 27 July.

“Shane is motivated and working hard with the aim of being back in the saddle later this month,” he said.

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Seriously injured Olympic rider ‘continues to improve’ in hospital – with hopes still on Paris

“It has been a week since Shane’s accident and he continues to improve each day. Shane is very thankful for all the love and support he has received,” said a spokesman for the rider today (21 March).

“Shane and Virgil are qualified and hopeful that Shane will be able to return to the saddle, prove his fitness and gain selection as a part of the Australian eventing team,” said the spokesman.

“Thanks once again for the support. It has been much appreciated.”

Shane and 19-year-old gelding Virgil were part of the silver medal-winning team at Tokyo, alongside Kevin McNab riding Don Quidam and Andrew Hoy with Vassily De Lassos.

A week before his accident, Shane won the Land Rover Horse Show of the Year CCI4*-S in New Zealand, with Virgil, on 7 March.

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“As the saying goes peacock one day, feather duster the next. After a fantastic week in New Zealand where Shane and Virgil secured their Olympic qualifications, this week Shane was brought back down to earth literally,” read a statement from Shane’s team.

“During a cross-country schooling session yesterday Shane suffered a nasty fall. Thankfully his horse was not injured.”

The spokesman said Shane was in the intensive care unit with a “badly broken femur and a fractured pelvis and ribs”.

“He also suffered a heavy concussion. Shane had surgery this morning to stabilise the femur and pelvis,” he said, adding that Shane is in “good hands with a great medical team and support network”.

“While the timing is unfortunate we are hopeful there is adequate time for him to recover and still be able to continue his preparation schedule for the Paris Olympic Games.

“We are so thankful to the fantastic team at home who have stepped up in Shane’s absence to ensure it was business as usual at Bimbadeen Park. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

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‘Storm in a teacup’: board member resigns over Olympic rider’s mankini review

Thousands of people signed a petition in support of Shane, and EA announced yesterday its review had concluded, finding Shane had not breached EA and high-performance codes of conduct.

But yesterday Tim Palmer, EA board member and integrity committee chair, posted a video on social media announcing his resignation.

“I’d like to make it clear I fully support Shane and don’t agree with the manner this trivial situation has been handled,” he said. “At no point was the issue brought to my attention before Shane was stood down.

Mr Palmer said there was “clearly a disconnect” between himself and the position EA took.

“Therefore I have tendered my resignation from the board, effective immediately,” he said. “Hopefully this storm in a teacup is shut down fairly quickly and without further delay, and allows Shane to focus on preparing for the Paris Olympics. Best wishes to Shane.”

An EA spokesman told H&H: “Equestrian Australia has a very capable board that we’re confident will continue to lead the sport through to Paris and beyond. We thank Mr Palmer for his contribution and wish him well for his future endeavours.”

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EA said its review should take “no more than a matter of days”, and today’s statement said the review had concluded, having found that Shane had not breached the code of conduct.

EA CEO Darren Gocher said: “Equestrian Australia has an obligation to look into any concerns of this nature that comes from the community.

“Having now thoroughly reviewed the incident and spoken to relevant parties, Equestrian Australia has confirmed that there was no breach of the code of conduct by Shane Rose.

“We take the recommendations on board and will move quickly to ensure the relevant actions are taken. Our sport is made up of wonderful individuals and we have plenty to look forward to in the year ahead.

“Shane has reflected on the incident, has apologised and understands the high standards expected of everyone involved in our high performance program. With the matter now resolved, Shane and his teammates are now looking forward to continuing to focus their attention on qualifying for Paris.”

The recommendations had included that EA should work with clubs and stakeholders to “assess minimum dress standards”.

“Now it is time to focus on the job ahead and try to get Australian Equestrian in the media for a more positive reason, an Olympic gold medal. Thanks again the support has been huge and much appreciated.”

Yesterday, Wallaby Hill shared a letter from its major sponsor Bowral Kubota, which wanted to show its support for the “amazing event”, and Shane Rose’s commitment to it.

“Next year at the Wallaby Hill extravaganza, to embrace Shane’s sense of humour, we will be donating a mankini to all spectators,” director Chris Pennells wrote. “And to support men’s health, we will be donating $100 for each spectator who has a sense of humour and tries to outdo Shane.

“I hope all spectators get behind this amazing event and represents the #RosePoseMankini at next year’s extravaganza.”

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Australia heads to Pratoni with Olympic medallists aiming for more glory

The full squad, plus reserves, from which the Australian team and individual will be selected for the 2022 World Eventing Championships are as follows:

Shenae Lowings with 12-year-old gelding Bold VentureOwner: riderGroom: Olivia Barton

Kevin has also been selected with direct reserve ride, 15-year-old gelding WillungaOwners: Samia Murgian and Emma McNabGroom: Lucy Hartley

Hazel Shannon with 17-year-old gelding Willingapark CliffordOwner: Terry SnowGroom: Bronte Buttel

Reserves:

Sammi Birch with 12-year-old gelding Finduss PFBOwner: Parkfield BreedingGroom: Helen Tagg

Sam Lyle with 12-year-old gelding BF ValourOwner: Charlotte MavrisGroom: Natalya Bretherton

Jessica Rae with 14-year-old mare Fifth AvenueOwner: riderGroom: Laura Munt

Shane Rose with 10-year-old mare Easy TurnOwners: Angela Shacklady and Niki RoseGroom: Jamie Atkinson

Andrew Hoy, who is on this year’s squad with his Tokyo individual bronze and team silver medal-winning ride Vassily De Lassos, was part of the Australian team that won bronze in 1986 with Just James, and Master Monarch in 2006, where Australia again collected team bronze.

This will be a first senior championship for Hazel Shannon and Shenae Lowings.

EA high performance director Chris Webb said that the breadth of experience is an “indication of the strength of Australia’s developing talent”.

“It is fantastic to see not only our successful Tokyo 2020 eventing team medallists named, but also combinations who are making their FEI World Championships debut, demonstrating the depth of our eventing talent,” he said.

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Changes to the top in the opening rounds of the cross-country at the Tokyo Games

The United States’ Doug Payne and Vandiver jumped clear but picked up 6.8 time-penalties to finish on 39.8 and said he “couldn’t have been prouder”.

“He probably has the biggest heart of any horse I’ve had the opportunity to work with and, although a bit unconventional at times he tries his heart out.”

Swiss rider Felix Vlogg and Colero picked up 11 penalties after triggering the frangible pin at part B of fence 18, Bumps and Stumps. The pair also picked up 0.8 time penalties.

Japan’s Kazuma Tomoto and Vinci De La Vigne moved up the leaderboard from their overnight seventh place to fourth after finishing on a jumping clear on the Olympic eventing cross-country but added 1.6 time-penalties to finish on 27.50.

Overnight third-placed Alex Hua Tian picked up a disappointing 12 penalties dropping out of the top three but he was delighted with his ride Don Geniro, having taken the direct routes on all approaches.

Alex added his advice to his teammates was to “go for it”.

“Look after your horses. Come home safe,” he said. “It’s only going to get hotter. The other two horses are much more blood than Don is. I think they will have a good time. We have a safe strategy for the team so the aim is to finish with three riders today.”

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“I have only done two [breaks] competing – the mental scars are much harder when you do that. Whereas if you get kicked in the face you’re being silly really, you’re in a position you probably shouldn’t have been, and so it’s easier to come back from that sort of thing.

Shane Rose may now have ridden at three Olympics, including Tokyo – winning team silver and bronze in Hong Kong and Rio respectively – as well as four World Equestrian Games, but his main “day job” is actually breaking and training racehorses in New South Wales, Australia.

“We have a pre-training, breaking and spelling [resting racehorses] farm and we break in a bunch of horses for some really nice trainers,” he explains. “We have another property for spelling that is very close to being finished.

“It’s a busy thing, but I like being busy. We work 50 or 60 in a morning before we start doing the eventers later on in the afternoon. But we’re really lucky that we have some awesome staff who make things happen at home.”

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