A solid and accurate test by Olympic, world and European champion La Biosthetique–Sam FBW scored 36pen to lead the field. In a rare expression of emotion, Michael punched the air after his test, although he later admitted he wasn’t sure if he had done enough to take the lead.
“My horse did a fabulous dressage in a difficult atmosphere here at Badminton. He was really relaxed. I didn’t know the result, but I know I had a good feeling.”
The German is 0.8pen ahead of Italy’s Stefano Brecciaroli, who produced an extravagant performance on Apollo Van De Wendi Kurt Hoeve, marred only by a little tension in the rein-back and a mistake in the first flying change.
Stefano has been based with Andrew Nicholson in the run-up to the event and credited the New Zealander for helping him. “Andrew has been helping me to prepare in the best way for this competition – one of the best in the world.”
Badminton final scores
Dirk Schrade (Germany) is currently third with the elegant and athletic King Artus on 39.2pen. Dirk started brightly earning one of just a handful of 10s for his entry and his tactful riding ensured the quality remained throughout, despite the challenging atmosphere.
Dirk said: “The conditions were more difficult today. It was much more windy and the crowds were here. It was quite busy in the arena and I could feel it with King Artus.”
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Jock Paget sits fourth with Clifton Promise on 39.7pen, while Rolex Grand Slam title contendersWilliam Fox-Pitt and Andrew Nicholson are separated by just 0.2pen on their second rides, Parklane Hawk (40) (pictured right) and Nereo (40.2).
Last to go, Pippa Funnell (Redesigned) slotted into equal seventh with Germany’s Sandra Auffarth (Opgun Louvo) on 41.2. Seven penalties separate the top nine riders going into cross-country tomorrow.
“I think it’s a very modern course with all the technical questions a course-designer can ask,” he said. “I think it will be a good cross-country day tomorrow with faults spread all over the course.”
Michael Jung agreed: “I think it is a wonderful four-star course. I think the middle part is more difficult with the fences coming closer together, but riders will have to concentrate from beginning to end.”
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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.
