There was no Badminton 2012 — the event was cancelled because of flooding. But hopes are high for this year’s event. Walk the course with designer Hugh Thomas and learn about the challenges facing riders this year. Thomas is enthusiastic about the quality of this years entries which include all the medalists from the London Olympics.

Michael Jung, the current world, Olympic and European champion will ride at Badminton for the first time, riding his Olympic mount La Biosthetique Sam and Leopin.

William Fox-Pitt has entered five horses – including  Parklane Hawk and Oslo – as he chases the coveted Rolex Grand Slam, which is awarded to any rider who completes consecutive victories at Kentucky, Burghley and Badminton. Because Badminton was cancelled 12 months ago due to waterlogging, this year’s event  puts Fox-Pitt back in the Grand Slam spotlight.