Posted: 4th September 2014 | Back to news feed
The 630 plus retailers are putting the finishing touches to their displays, ready to greet the first of the expected 160,000 visitors to the 2014 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials. The trot up has taken place, and the most enthusiastic of the 64 riders have had their first opportunity to get out on to the cross country course and see what Captain Mark Phillips has in store for them on Saturday.
The good news is that the sun has been shining and the weather forecast for the next few days is set fair – cloudy but dry, perfect eventing weather.
This year's entry is made up of riders from 13 nations, and includes 18 first timers. There are four past winners; Andrew Nicholson, William Fox-Pitt, Oliver Townend and Andrew Hoy. Not surprisingly the buzz is building here.
Can Andrew Nicholson and Avebury make it three in a row? Or will William Fox-Pitt win a record seventh title? You can never write off Oliver Townend and Armada, this year's Badminton runners up, while Andrew Hoy's Rutherglen looked impressive at the trot up. Tim Price and Ringwood Sky Boy could do well for New Zealand, as could Piggy French, one of only four competitors with two rides, Jakata and Westwood Mariner.
Just one horse failed to get through the first horse inspection, CP Qualified, the ride of Australia's Shane Rose. Five, including the defending champion and 2014 favourite Avebury, were sent to the holding box but all passed on re-inspection.
Dressage starts Thursday at 10am, with Sarah Bullimore and Valentino V first into the arena.
Day 1 Round Up - Inc Andrew Nicholson talking about why his 2 attempts at trot up might be an omen.... Featuring Jonelle Price (NZ), Andrew Nicholson & William Fox-Pitt