The second day of the dressage at Badminton Horse Trials turned out to be a fantastic day of competition. Sadly though, before the dressage had even begun two horses were withdrawn, hot favourites Redesigned (Pippa Funnell) and Miners Frolic (Tina Cook). Both riders are obviously extremely disappointed, and we spectators are too - but I suppose that's the world of horses for you!
First to go was Vicky Brake with Looks Like Fun, scoring a perhaps disappointin 63.2, landing them in 76th place going into the cross country tomorrow. Also in the first section was 2010 winner Paul Tapner with his ride Kilfinnie II. They delivered an average score of 51.3, leaving them in equal 36th - perhaps not a score ready to defend his title. Other rides in the first section include first-timer Lucie McNicholl with Zeus of Rushall, scoring 55.8.
After the first break came Emily Baldwin with Drivetime, who gave a very impressive test scoring them 39.7 and into 5th place. Canadian rider Selena O'Hanlon gave a nice test on Colombo, leaving them in equal 10th with 43.3. Also to go in the second section was Andreas Ostholt (GER) with Franco Jeas, achieving a score of 44.5 to go in equal 15th.
After lunch came perhaps the most interesting of competition. Karen O'Conner arrived in the arena first with Mandiba, scoring a very respectable 44.5, in equal 15th with Andreas Ostholt. Then came the most outstanding ride of the day, belonging to Ruth Edge and Two Thyme. The pair gave an extremely impressive test that was a pleasure to watch, scoring them 33.3. This then put them into the lead above Laura Collett. Then came 2007 winner Lucinda Fredericks on her young - but very promising - Prada. They achieved a score of 46.2 to fit nicely into 20th place, a score no doubt Lucinda will be pleased with.
After the last break came perhaps the creme de la creme of competition. William Fox-Pitt was first up, with his second ride of Cool Mountain. With high expectations for the pair though, they achieved a somewhat disappointing score of 48.5, putting them into 31st position. Soon after came Nicola Wilson on the XC-machine Opposition Buzz. Not renowned for his dressage, Buzz often struggles to achieve marks better than 50, yet today exceeded all expectations by giving a beautiful test, scoring an impressive 44 and leaving them in 12th. Sure contenders for the top spot. Then came 2009 winner Oliver Townend on Ashdale Cruise Master. They too delivered an impressive test, with a score of 40.5 and 7th place going into the cross country. Next up was Piggy French on her relatively new ride, Jakata. They gave a fluent and extremely impressive test, which was reflected in the marks after they were awarded a 10 for the halt (the only 10 of the competition!). They achieved 36 and just nipped Laura Collett (36.5) into 2nd place. Then came Burghley 2010 winner Caroline Powell and Lenamore. Lenamore, despite being a veteran in the sport at 18, showed absolutely no signs of ageing and was rather too keen at times! Despite accidental changes and a few cheeky moments Caroline rode well to compose the test and they achieved 47.2 and into equal 24th. After Caroline came everyone's favourite - Mary King. Mary rode her second horse of the competition, Imperial Cavalier, and was clearly hoping for a better score than one given to Apache Sauce yesterday. And of course, she delivered, achieving a nice impressive test (despite a couple of mistakes), scoring 44.2 and into 13th. Last to go was the popular Mark Todd and NZB Land Vision. Toddy disappointed nobody by giving an impressive last test of the day and scoring 36.8 and into 4th - leaving the second day of dressage with a smile.
So, after the first phase of competition who seem to be in the running for the title?
Most definitely, Ruth Edge and Two Thyme. An experienced combination who are sure to prove themselves over the next couple of days. I certainly wouldn't be surprised if they gained the top spot on Monday. Others include Piggy French, currently in 2nd and Mark Todd in 4th. Oliver Townend too has a decent chance, as well as Nicola Wilson and Mary King. The top 20 competitors is sure to change over the next day. Many of the combinations are inexperienced, of which may show across the challenging 4* course. But of course, only time will tell!
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