Last week was a busy one for me at work and I had completely forgotten about Badminton until this morning when I realized I could dial up the event on ClipMyHorse TV and ride vicariously along with some of the world’s top riders. Luckily for those there in person, it appeared to be a spectacular day with excellent footing. There were 79 starters, 44 clear rounds (56%) and six combinations that finished inside the optimum time (including Harry Meade, who had the only two double clears in Kentucky). Eleven riders retired on course; eight were eliminated. There were 21 first-time competitors this year, with 14 making it through to cross-country.
Top 10 After Cross-Country
Following a day of intense competition, Oliver Townend & Cooley Rosalent are in the lead going into show jumping with 22.3 penalties, with Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo in second place with 25.3 penalties. Both riders faced flag penalties at Huntsmans Close, which were later rescinded after video analysis. In fact, flag penalties were a big issue during the event, causing a lot of ping-ponging among the top placements on the leaderboard.
It’s notable that five out of the top six finished within the time allowed. In fact, Ros Canter came in a full 11 seconds under the time.
Gemma Stevens delivered a bold, clear round inside the time on Chilli Knight, securing third place. Austin O’Connor and Harry Meade both produced strong performances to round out the top five.
Shetland Pony Grand National
Rounding out the day was the Shetland Pony Grand National, an event that has raised more than £250,000 for the Bob Champion Cancer Trust, which was set up by the 1971 Grand National winning jockey. Which of these brave young riders will we see going around Badminton in the future?