Move Over Met Gala – The Badminton Strut Has Begun
Beneath a glowing afternoon sun, eighty-five horses were presented at the first horse inspection of the MARS Badminton Horse Trials, under the discerning eyes of the Ground Jury – Xavier Le Source (President, FRA), Nick Burton (GBR), and Robert Stevenson (USA) – accompanied by the veterinary panel.
Gleaming coats, high spirits, and spring energy were in abundance. The trot-up, always a spectacle, doubled up as a stylish showcase where elegance, personality, and national pride were on full display.
Japanese Olympic bronze medallist Ryuzo Kitajima stunned in a flawless traditional Hakama, while Grace Taylor channelled sophisticated Yellowstone vibes. Yasmin Ingham was the epitome of equestrian chic in a beautifully tailored pantsuit.
Earth tones dominated the day as Alex Bragg and Tom Woodward stepped out in impeccably tailored suits. Oliver Townend kept things cool, topping his look with aviators fit for Maverick himself.
Adding a pop of colour and spring freshness, Tom Crisp and Ros Canter brought cheerful flair to the scene, while Austrian rider Harold Ambrose delighted onlookers with a nod to tradition in his lederhosen.
But amid the style and spectacle, the serious business of competition was also underway. Unfortunately, Ben Hobday and Shadow Man withdrew from the holding box, and both Luc Chateau with Viens du Mont and Georgia Bartlett with Spano de Nazca were not accepted upon reinspection.
Eighty-two horse-and-rider pairs will now move forward to the dressage phase. Kirsty Chabert and Classic VI will be the first down the centre line tomorrow at 9:00 a.m.
COVER IMAGE: BADMINTON HORSE TRIALS. All other media © Eventing Times
