Strong performances by the first two German riders have put their team in the lead after the first day of dressage at the Agria FEI Eventing European Championship at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire (GB).
Malin Hansen-Hotopp and Carlitos Quidditch K (pictured) head the leaderboard on 27.8 and team pathfinder Libussa Lübbeke is now in second place on Caramia 34 with 28.3.
Yasmin Ingham, who was first to go for Great Britain with Rehy DJ, is in joint third place with France’s Sebastian Cavaillon riding Elipso de la Vigne on a score of 29.
Piggy March is fifth on the stallion Halo, on 29.4, putting the British team second at this stage.
Malin, 47, who runs a farm in rural east Germany, already has the advantage of good form around the undulations of the beautiful park at Blenheim as she and the 13-year-old Holsteiner Carlitos Quidditch K won the CCI4*-L here in 2022.
“My horse was fabulous three years ago, but I know that I will still need to be focused,” said Malin, who was team pathfinder in Germany’s silver medal team at the 2023 European championships at Haras du Pin, France.
“It’s really special to be back here on the German team, and I must admit I am a little bit happier not to be first to go this time – Libussa is a really cool rider.”
Libussa, 24, is making her senior team debut on a 15-year-old Hannoverian mare that was bred by her parents and has already taken her to team gold and silver medals at Young Rider level .
“It’s a big step up to a senior championship and we never thought that she would reach this level so this is like a dream to be representing Germany and we are just enjoying it.”
World champion Yasmin, a member of the winning British team in 2023 on Banzai du Loir, is also riding her Young Rider medallist, another 15-year-old, who she has been competing for nine years.
“We are a great partnership and I was delighted with him,” she said.” He tried so hard, he was accurate and his flying changes were amazing. It’s so exciting to be here and a real honour to be pathfinder for the British team.”
Sebastian Cavaillon, France’s second rider, also comes to Blenheim with good form, including a third place at Bramham in June. “We know that the course here will be strong, and that Captain Mark Phillips is a very good designer, but we are ready for that – that’s why we came to Bramham, to prepare for the hills here.
“My horse has a great galloping stride and is a very good show jumper. A mark of 29 is bad for him actually, and I am quite disappointed, but that is the sport.”
Other riders to perform their dressage tests today include the hugely experienced Belgian rider Karin Donckers, for whom this is a 30th senior championship and a 15th Europeans. She scored 34.9 on Ceres de la Brasserie, a daughter of her former team ride Gazelle de la Brasserie, and is in 15th place.
Karin is one of only a few riders to have ridden at the 2005 Blenheim Europeans, where she finished fourth individually. “It’s nice to be back again and see the Palace again,” she said. “Everything is so ‘horsey’ in England, and it’s so green and lovely.
“Representing my country never gets old and as long as I have the right horse and am able, I will keep going.”
At the other end of the experience spectrum, Kumru (Kuki) Say made history as the first Turkish rider to compete at a championship. She and Baladin de L’Ocean LA are in 21st place on 37.1.
Tomorrow, the third and fourth team riders will perform their dressage tests, starting at 10.30am.
In the GFS Saddles 8 & 9 Year Old CCI4*-S, Britain’s Gemma Stevens is now in pole position riding the Rex Syndicate’s Cooley Park Muze on a score of 22.9. Fiona Cashel is second on Monbeg Cazador on 25.0 and Ireland’s Sian Coleman is third on Kilroe Frolic on 26.8.
German team pathfinder Libussa Lubbecke has made a great start on her senior team debut, taking an early lead in the dressage phase at the Agria FEI Eventing European Championship at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire (GB).
She scored 28.3 penalties on her family’s home-bred Caramia 34, to put her 0.7 ahead of Great Britain’s first team rider, Yasmin Ingham on Rehy DJ.
“It is like a dream,” said Libussa. “We bred this mare, my brother rode her and then I won medals on her at Young Rider level, but we never thought she would be a five-star or a championship horse, so we are just enjoying it. It was always an ambition to ride for Germany at senior level, which is a big step up, so we are enjoying it.”
Yasmin, the reigning world champion, was also riding her Young Rider medal-winning team horse, the 15-year-old Irish Sport Horse Rehy DJ, known as “Piglet”.
“It is so exciting to be here at Blenheim, a real honour,” said Yasmin, a member of the winning team at the 2023 Europeans in France.
“I am delighted with his test, he was fabulous. He tried so hard and was so accurate and his flying changes were amazing. We’re a great partnership – I have been riding him since he was six. He is Piglet by name and piglet by nature!”
Switzerland’s Nadja Minder had the daunting role of championship pathfinder and, although she was disappointed that her horse, Toblerone, was lit up by the atmosphere, she said: “There is no better horse to go first. It is fun and an honour. I think the cross-country terrain will suit him and it won’t be a dressage competition!”
Nations’ second team members will perform their dressage tests this afternoon, starting at 2:30pm.
In the GFS Saddles 8 & 9 Year Old CCI4*-S, Australian rider Kevin McNab has taken an early lead on Sofia Von Moltke’s Wilfred Lancer, scoring 29.4. He leads New Zealander Samantha Lissington, riding Lucas Stone by just 0.1 of a penalty.
Tom Jackson was the highest-placed British rider, third on United 36 on 30.2.
IMAGES © PETER NIXON
Riders representing 17 nations have arrived in the magnificent setting of Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, Great Britain, for the Agria FEI Eventing European Championship, which start tomorrow (Thursday, September 18).
As they gathered for a moving opening ceremony in the main arena, Blenheim’s host, the Duke of Marlborough, said: “The Palace itself owes much of its existence to civilisation’s historic reliance on the strength and dependability of the horse.
“It is therefore a great privilege to gather here today, on the 35th anniversary of the Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials, within our rolling parkland — the vision and creation of Capability Brown, the renowned 18th-century landscape architect — which provides the perfect setting for this prestigious event.
“This year, we are especially delighted to host the Agria FEI Eventing European Championship. The last time these Championships were held here was 20 years ago, however today we welcome riders and their horses from across Europe, each bringing with them passion, skill, and dedication to this world-class competition.”
All 55 horses passed the first horse inspection and Swiss team pathfinder Nadja Minder riding Toblerone will be first into the dressage arena tomorrow at 10.30am in front of judges Sandy Phillips (ground jury president, GB), Katrin Eichinger-Kniely from Austria and Valerie Pride from the USA.
Nine nations will field teams. Great Britain, the defending champions, have been drawn seventh in the order of countries, with reigning world eventing champion Yasmin Ingham, riding Rehy DJ, as team pathfinder. She will be followed by Piggy March with the stallion Halo and Olympic team gold medallists Tom McEwen (JL Dublin) and Laura Collett (London 52) will perform their dressage tests on Friday.
Germany’s Michael Jung, the only former individual European champion in the field, will be his team’s anchor, riding his Olympic gold medallist FischerChipmunk FRH, competing toward the end of Friday afternoon.
The drawn order of nations is: Norway*, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Turkey*, Belgium, Great Britain, Netherlands*, Hungary*, Lithuania*, Sweden, Finland*, Germany, France, Ireland, Czech Republic*, Luxembourg* (* denotes individuals only). Kumru Say makes history for Turkey, as the first representative of her country to compete in an eventing championship.
Also starting tomorrow is the GFS Saddles 8 & 9 Year Old CCI4*-S, which has attracted a field of nearly 100. First into the dressage arena at 10am is Gemma Stevens riding Chilli’s Jester.
THE SPEEDI-BEET TROT UP
At the first Speedi-Beet trot up of the event, the Best Dressed, with thanks to HiHo Silver, went to Pietro Majolino (ITA) and Lea Siegl (AUT – above).
The Best Turned Out, with thanks to British Horse Feeds, went to Sarah Ennis’ Dourough Ferro Class Act, groomed by Emily Singleton (IRL).
Jess Blackford, Area Sales Manager for British Horse Feeds, who sponsor the Speedi-Beet Trot-up commented, “It is such a privilege to see so many well-presented horses in superb condition at the Trot-up here at the Agria FEI Eventing European Championship at Blenheim Palace. British Horse Feeds, home of Speedi-Beet stands for feeding fibre first as the starting point for a natural and healthy diet. It provides the basis for all equine diets which suits all types of horses in all levels of work. Combining Speedi-Beet with the additional concentrates required for event horses at the top of their game enables the horses to maintain a healthy working digestive system whilst providing the necessary slow and fast release energy for performance. We wish all of the competitors the best for the exciting competition ahead.”
IMAGES © PETER NIXON
Next week, over 150 horse and rider combinations will compete in the Agria FEI Eventing European Championship (CCI4*-L) and coveted GFS Saddles 8 & 9 Year Old class(CCI4*-S). This 2025 Championship sees 33 Olympians, 17 first-time competitors and two debut nations gracing the Blenheim Palace grounds.
The biggest names in European Eventing are set to go head-to-head, with a golden showdown promised between Paris 2024 team gold medallists, Tom McEwen (GB) and Laura Collett (GB), and the Paris 2024 individual champion – and Eventing’s most decorated European rider – Michael Jung (GER). All three riders return on the same horses from the Olympics; JL Dublin, London 52 and fischerChipmunk FRH, respectively. Although the spotlight will be on Great Britain and Germany, as the two most successful nations to date at this level, their European competitors should not be ignored. Sweden is coming off the back of their first-ever Nations Cup victory in Strzegom, Switzerland has their solid Paris 2024 quartet, and Belgium brings experience with their selection of world number 20 Lara de Liederkerke-Meier and 14-time European Championship competitor Karin Donckers.
With a thrilling course conceived by legend Captain Mark Phillips, horses and riders will be challenged on a world-class track designed to test the best without over facing newcomers.
It is not just the Agria FEI Eventing European Championship drawing the crowds this year, with entries for the GFS Saddles 8 & 9 Year Old class ensuring a competition just as nail-biting. Gemma Stevens has a strong line-up, bringing the current 7-year-old World Champion Chilli Morning IV, Millstreet CCI3*-L winner Cooley Park Muze and Chilli’s Jester. Izzy Taylor is also eyeing-up a win, entering the 2023 6-year-old World Champion Barrington Alice, and the 2024 Retraining of Racehorses Elite Eventing Award winner Bayaanaat.
Tom Bird and his horse Lenny are another pair to watch, with the duo securing 10 double clears from 12 starts this season, including a win in the Intermediate at Little Downham in May. Austin O’Connor brings forward his National Novice Champion Diamond Mistress, and French rider Amaury Choplain brings Gin Tonic D’Aury off the back of an individual win in the CCI4*L at Strzegom.
The Agria Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials is also profiling riders of the future, hosting this year’s evoke™ Eventer Challenge, a guaranteed crowd pleaser, highlighting grassroots riders from across the UK as they take part in a fast-paced cross country and show jumping round.
The event will also welcome Meg Elphick on the Thursday and Esme Higgs, better known as ThisEsme, who will meet and greet fans on Saturday. Official Charity Partner, Riding for the Disabled Association, will have a number of exciting events over the weekend, including a Chat Stage talk with Free Rein’s Joe Ashman on Sunday, course walks with international Event riders Bill Levett and Kirsty Chabert on Thursday and Friday, and an opportunity to ride mechanical horses, Charley and Anton.
There really is something for everyone. In addition to four days of thrilling eventing, visitors will be treated to a plethora of exciting experiences, such as Mutts & Butts Dog Agility, falconry displays, a visit from the Heythrop Hunt Hounds and the incredible Shetland Pony Grand National.
For those looking for a spot of relaxing retail therapy, there will be over 200 exhibitors in the shopping village ready to be perused, as well as exclusive hospitality options and delicious local food and drink.
If an appetising treat is on the cards, Fortnum & Mason will be on hand with its scrumptiously iconic picnic hampers. Available to pre-order and collect on site, the hampers will be ready to enjoy at leisure, full to the brim with tasty treats, perfect for a jump-side banquet.
Event Director Katrina Midgley comments, “We are thrilled to welcome such an incredible line-up to Blenheim Palace this September. With a world-class course ready to test the very best, and the GFS Saddles 8 & 9 Year Old class showcasing the exciting next generation, this year promises to be a true celebration of eventing at every level. It’s an honour to see the sport’s brightest stars and future talent compete against the stunning backdrop of Blenheim Palace.”
General admission tickets are available with under 12s going free. VIP ticket options are also on offer from £165, and include in-show parking, breakfast, lunch, access to the VIP Pavilion, garden and lounge, a live stream of all the action, and unlimited tea and coffee.
For tickets, hospitality, and the latest updates, visit www.bpiht.co.uk
If you are unable to attend in person, you can keep an eye on all the Agria FEI Eventing European Championship action on FEI TV (Worldwide).
The Agria FEI Eventing European Championship will also be broadcast live on BBC Sport across BBC iPlayer, the BBC Sport website, and the app. Coverage will also be available on demand for 30 days after the event.
Broadcast schedule (all times BST, subject to change):
Saturday 20th September – 10:45 to 15:30
Sunday 21st September – 10:50 to 12:10 (Jumping – Group 1)
Sunday 21st September – 13:50 to 15:00 (Jumping – Group 2)
Horse & Country will be live streaming the GFS Saddles 8 & 9 Year Old class throughout the week.
IMAGE © LIBBY LAW PHOTOGRAPHY
In a breathtaking turn of events, Ros Canter Eventing and her exceptional partner, Lordships Graffalo, charged full steam ahead into the final phase of the Defender Burghley Horse Trials with the goal of defending their hard-won 2024 title.
LEADING THE CHARGE
Canter delivered a near-flawless dressage test, scoring 22.4 penalties and landing just a hair’s breadth—0.4 penalties—behind leader Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent.
CROSS-COUNTRY MASTERCLASS
On Saturday, Canter and Walter soared across the cross-country course as the only pair to go clear and inside the time, reinforcing their dominance with a stellar round that places them firmly in the limelight heading into the finale. Ros couldn’t hide her excitement: “The crowd’s roar at the finish gave me that extra push—and Walter galloped home as though he never wanted the ride to stop.”
HISTORY POISED TO REPEAT, ON THE EDGE OF GREATNESS
Last year, Canter and Walter clinched Burghley with what remains the best finishing score in Burghley history. With only the show-jumping left to go, a repeat victory would etch their names further into equestrian legend—proving once again that when it comes to high-stakes eventing, Walter’s the secret weapon that brings out the very best in Ros Canter.
THEY’VE DONE IT!
You could hear a pin drop as Ros and her remarkable partner, Walter, entered the Burghley arena. With their trademark precision and poise, the pair once again rose to the occasion, delivering under immense pressure to secure back-to-back victories at the Defender Burghley Horse Trials.
In a twist of sporting poetry, they clinched the title on the exact same historic score as last year—a mark that had already etched their names into Burghley’s record books. To repeat it, against a world-class field and with all eyes on them, speaks volumes about their consistency, composure, and partnership.
The crowd erupted as Ros and Walter sealed their place in eventing history, not only defending their crown but confirming themselves as one of the greatest combinations the sport has ever seen.
Austin O’Connor Eventing and the ever-consistent Colorado Blue secured a superb runner-up finish, delivering Ireland’s best result at Burghley since 1963. Their performance was a true testament to skill, resilience, and horsemanship, earning them a richly deserved place on the podium and a place in the history books.
It was also an excellent weekend for Harry Meade Eventing, who achieved the remarkable feat of finishing with all three of his horses inside the top ten. Such consistency across multiple rides is a rare and impressive accomplishment, underlining his talent and depth of partnership with his string.
For Laura Collett Eventing, her return to Burghley was nothing short of triumphant. Partnering the talented Bling, she secured a coveted top ten placing, which also marked her best-ever Burghley completion—a significant personal milestone and a clear statement of her ongoing form at the very highest level.
The young and dynamic Alice Casburn once again showed maturity well beyond her years, riding the seasoned Topspin, now 17 years old, to yet another top ten finish. Their partnership continues to impress and inspire, proving experience and youthful determination can blend into outstanding results.
It was also a day to remember for New Zealand. Tim Price, aboard Vitali, and Caroline Powell, with High Time, both delivered strong performances to secure top-ten finishes, further cementing New Zealand’s reputation as a powerhouse in international eventing.
Meanwhile, the French contingent celebrated a fantastic result as Gaspard Maksud and Zaragoza stormed into 7th place. Their stylish and confident round marked a breakthrough result and a highlight for France, demonstrating the growing depth and competitiveness of their riders on the global stage.
With so many standout performances and storylines unfolding, this year’s Burghley will be remembered as one of the most competitive and inspiring editions in recent history.
More to follow…
Bear with us — there’s a lot to dissect from today’s action. From penalties to perfection: cross-country day delivered at Defender Burghley Horse Trials, as the drama continued even after the final whistle, with Harry Meade Eventing and Anaghmore Valona deemed to have left the start box early. That ruling means Harry has been awarded 3.2 penalties instead of 0.4, and he switches places with Tim Price and Vitali, who now rise into third place.
Whilst there was some deliberation over the results, there was absolutely no question that Ros Canter Eventing delivered the round of the day. She was the only combination to finish inside the time and now holds the best chance of defending her title. Ros, who is expecting her second child, took extra precautions in her preparation, aware that all eyes would be on her. She explained that she wanted to ensure she felt at her best and entirely capable of tackling Derek di Grazia’s demanding course. Roars of appreciation from spectators followed her around the 6km track, and the cheers reached their peak as she crossed the finishing line with a flawless completion.
Course designer Derek di Grazia admitted he thought the time would be difficult, but was nevertheless surprised by some of the issues riders faced. “You couldn’t let your guard down and had to ride it to the finish,” he reflected, adding that the day had given him plenty to consider for next year’s design.
With three completions today, Harry Meade reflected on the challenge: “𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘧𝘢𝘴𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦. 𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘢, 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘦𝘥, 𝘴𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘤𝘬-𝘧𝘰𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘉𝘶𝘳𝘨𝘩𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘋𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘬’𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘧𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘉𝘶𝘳𝘨𝘩𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘪𝘴 𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢 𝘧𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘤𝘬-𝘰𝘯 𝘦𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵 𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘺𝘱𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘰𝘱𝘩𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘴.”
Vintage Colorado Blue produced another of his trademark, effortless rounds — the kind we’ve come to admire time and again. The big grey stormed around the track to huge adoration and fanfare, finishing second with Austin O’Connor Eventing, who also guided Sixmilewater to an educational completion earlier in the day.
Cassie Sanger (USA) delivered a classy clear round on board Redfield Fyre, with just 9.2 time penalties on her Defender Burghley debut. The youngest rider in this year’s field, she soared up the leaderboard from 40th to an impressive 13th place.
Laura Collett Eventing also marked her return to Burghley for the first time since 2011, when she partnered Noble Bestman. This time she piloted the talented 12-year-old mare Bling with style and confidence on their Burghley debut, and the duo now sit comfortably within the top ten heading into the final day.
It might be their very first season together, but Samantha Lissington (NZL) continues to impress. She piloted Billy Alberto — contesting his first-ever CCI5* — masterfully around the course. Rising from 45th to 12th, the pair delivered one of the most eye-catching rounds of the day. Sam continues to amaze us; after all, who picks Burghley as their horse’s five-star debut? She knew her horse inside out, trusted his ability, and was rewarded with a superb performance.
Alice Casburn and Topspin once again showed their mettle, making a tough five-star track look deceptively easy and adding just 4.4 time penalties. It was also a fantastic showing for Gaspard Maksud (FRA) and Zaragoza, and Holly Richardson and Ballyneety Silver Service, both of whom climbed into the top ten after strong performances.
The crowds were bustling, the weather glorious, and spectators were treated to a day of world-class sport, watching some of the best combinations in the world take on the unique challenge of Defender Burghley.
What a day we were treated to under glorious blue skies and in front of a truly electric Burghley crowd. The Defender Burghley Horse Trials once again proved why it is one of the crown jewels of the equestrian calendar, as thousands of fans packed the stands and lined the arenas to witness dressage at its absolute finest. With just over six penalties separating a stellar top ten leaderboard, the competition is set up for a thrilling weekend ahead.
The atmosphere reached fever pitch for Oliver Townend (Official) as “His Girl Friday,” Cooley Rosalent, danced her way to the top of the leaderboard. Rosie showcased her trademark brilliance and elegance, earning an exceptional 22.0 to edge narrowly into the lead, just 0.4 points clear of the defending champions, Ros Canter Eventing and the impeccable Lordships Graffalo.
Vitali, ever the showman at Burghley, rose to the occasion once more. With precision and polish, he produced a performance that earned 23.1, securing third place with Tim Price and thrilling supporters who rode every stride. Hot on his heels, Samantha Lissington continues to carve her name into the 2025 season, storming into fourth place with the magnificent Lord Seekönig, a combination that radiates class and promise.
Overnight leaders Piggy March and the dynamic MCS Maverick now hold fifth, but their fluid, crowd-pleasing test ensures they remain firmly in contention. Behind them, the leaderboard glitters with top-tier names: Emily King and Valmy Biats, Christoph Wahler and D’Accord FRH, Austin O’Connor Eventing and Colorado Blue—all riding with flair and determination that had spectators fixated on the action.
Alex Bragg Team Bragg Eventing and Ardeo Premier remain in contention after their personal best yesterday, and what a moment for Tom Crisp, whose beloved Dassett Rock Star performed his socks off, prompting a wave of cheers that captured the spirit of the day—sportsmanship, brilliance, and the love of the sport.
It has been a phenomenal day for Max Warburton Eventing, as he took the Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse 4-Year-Old title with Patron Of Keros and sits just outside the top ten in the main event with Deerpairc Revelry. Meanwhile, Katie Magee continues her upper trajectory as she sits in 13th spot with Treworra.
With clear skies overhead, a buzzing crowd, and a leaderboard tighter than ever, Burghley has delivered a first act worthy of its legend. If today’s dressage is anything to go by, the cross-country promises to be an unforgettable test of courage, skill, and heart.
Doel, Rawlin, March—this one’s on top, then that one’s on top. Thursday afternoon at Defender Burghley delivered all the tension and drama of a Game of Thrones episode, with the leaderboard shifting almost as quickly as the crowd could cheer.
Will Rawlin and Ballycoog Breaker Boy raised the stakes with an impressive score of 28.8, greeted by thunderous applause and a jubilant fist pump from Rawlin, clearly thrilled with their performance.
But the excitement didn’t stop there. Just moments later, Piggy March entered the arena with MCS Maverick, producing a sublime test that earned 25.7 — good enough to snatch the lead and send the crowd buzzing.
Adding to the afternoon’s drama, Alex Bragg Team Bragg Eventing and Ardeo Premier — now in their eighth season as a partnership but making their Burghley debut together — delivered a personal best at five-star level. The 12-year-old gelding showed all his class in a polished and confident performance and they sit in second place overnight.
It was a case of come rain or come shine, but the skies have cleared, and the day has closed under a golden sunset, perfectly framing the end of an exhilarating first day. With many of the sport’s biggest names still to come, anticipation is high for what promises to be an unforgettable continuation of the competition.
The opening day at Burghley has already delivered downpours, blue skies, the world number one in action, an Irish personal best, and even a sub-30 dressage test.
Harry Meade Eventing was the first competitor down the centre line, partnering Et Hop du Matz, the first of his three entries here at Burghley. Despite the pressure of opening the competition, Meade produced a balanced, confident performance that provided an early benchmark for the rest of the field. With two more rides to come, he’ll certainly be one to watch.
David Doel and Galileo Nieuwmoed take the early lead, producing the first sub-30 dressage test of the competition. Their polished performance, ridden in the worst of the rain showers so far, was a testament to their composure under pressure.
Hot on their heels is Ireland’s Joseph Murphy Eventing, riding the ever-improving Belline Fighting Spirit. The pair impressed the judges with their expressive work, scoring a personal best of 30.9. Joseph, quite rightly, was thrilled with the 10-year-old gelding’s performance.
The weather may have thrown in a few heavy showers, but the famous Burghley atmosphere has remained undimmed. Crowds lined the grandstands with umbrellas and raincoats at the ready, their enthusiasm unwavering. Between breaks in the rain, the iconic Lincolnshire estate has been bathed in sunshine, providing a spectacular backdrop to one of the sport’s most anticipated events of the year.
And all of this — world number ones, personal bests, and record-breaking early scores — before the lunch break! With so much more to come, including some of the sport’s biggest names yet to ride their dressage tests, the stage is set for an electrifying few days at Burghley.
With just two weeks to go, the anticipation is building for the prestigious Agria FEI Eventing European Championship at Blenheim Palace from 18 – 21 September. All nations have now released the names of their team riders, showcasing a plethora of talent, from first timers to seasoned champions – it is sure to be the event of the season.
The team lists are a ‘who’s who’ of eventing royalty, with Germany’s team featuring Grand Slam winner, triple Olympic gold medallist and triple European Champion Michael Jung and Arville FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ 2025 winners Calvin Böckmann and Libussa Lübekke. Great Britain will present Paris 2024 Olympic gold medallists Laura Collett MBE and Tom McEwen, as well as World Champion Yasmin Ingham, and renowned five-star riders Piggy March, Caroline Harris and Bubby Upton.
From further afield, Turkey will put forward a sole rider, as Kumru Say flies the flag for her country’s first ever appearance at this level of the sport, whilst Norway’s Yasmin Olsson-Payne will make her debut at senior European level riding the nine-year-old Cos Me Will.
Sweden has a strong selection for contention, looking to secure a podium position again after their team bronze at the Europeans in 2021. Christoffer Forsberg and Hippo’s Sapporo TSF, who were a part of the 2021 team, are joined by Frida Andersen who has two Olympics, two European Championships and a World Championships under her belt. Sofia Sjöborg, will bring Govalent for his first Championship, with Amanda Staam and Corpoubet AT – who were part of the Swedish team at the European Championship 2023 and Olympic reserves in Paris, rounding out the team.
Olympians are dotted throughout, with Nicholas Touzaint – former dual European Champion – making the French team following his team silver medal at Paris 2024, and Ireland’s selection consisting of Olympians Susie Berry and Sarah Ennis. Switzerland’s rider selection mirrors that of their Paris selection, with Robin Godel, Mélody Johner, Nadja Minder and Felix Vogg announced, but only Nadja Minder will ride the same horse she took, partnering up again with Toblerone.
Blenheim is preparing to host what promises to be a fiercely contested Championship. The blend of world-class titleholders and first-time competitors will make this year’s Agria FEI Eventing European Championship a weekend to remember.
To find out more, and book your tickets, visit bpiht.co.uk
Please find the full entry list below:
AUSTRIA
Harald Ambros, with Vitorio Du Monete
Katrin Khoddam-Hazrati, with Renegade
Lea Siegl, with Van Helsing P
BELGIUM
Wouter De Cleene, with Quintera
Lara De Liederkerke – Meier, with Hooney d’Arville
Karin Donckers, with Ceres De La Brasserie
Senne Vervaecke, with Google van Alsingen
CZECH REPUBLIC
Jaroslav Abik, with Madock
Pavel Brezina, with Turin
FINLAND
Sanna Siltakorpi, with Bofey Click
FRANCE
Sebastien Cavaillon, with Elipsco De La Vigne
Luc Chateau, with Cocorico de L’Ebat
Alexis Goury, with Je’Vall
Benjamin Massie, with Figaro Fonroy
Astier Nicolas, with Alertamalibo’or
Nicolas Touzaint, with Absolut Gold HDC
GERMANY
Nicolai Aldinger, with Timmo
Calvin Böckmann, with The Phantom of the Opera
Malin Hansen-Hotopp, with Carlitos Quidditch K
Michael Jung, with fischerChipmunk FRH
Libussa Lübbeke, with Caramia
Jérôme Robiné, with Black Ice
GREAT BRITAIN
Laura Collett, with London 52
Caroline Harris, with D. Day
Yasmin Ingham, with Rehy DJ
Piggy March, with Halo
Tom McEwen, with JL Dublin
Bubby Upton, with Its Cooley Time
HUNGARY
Noémi Viola Doerfer, with Piltown Harry
Balázs Kaizinger, with Herr Cooles Classico
IRELAND
Susannah Berry, with Clever Trick
Ian Cassells, with Millridge Atlantis
Aoife Clark, with Full Monty De Lacense
Sarah Ennis, with Dourough Ferro Class Act
Robbie Kearns, with Chance Encounter
Padraig McCarthy, with Pomp n Circumstance
ITALY
Daniele Bizzarro, with Stormhill Riot
Pietro Majolino, with Vita Louise DH Z
Vittoria Panizzon, with DHI Jackpot
Arianna Schivo, with First Lady de Belheme
Giovanni Ugolotti, with Duke of Champions
LITHUANIA
Aistis Vitkauskas, with Commander VG
LUXEMBOURG
Christian Chabot, with Flora-B-Lux
NORWAY
Yasmin Olsson-Payne, with Cos Me Will
SWEDEN
Frida Andersen, with Stonehavens Baby Blue
Christoffer Forsberg, with Hippo’s Sapporo TSF
Sofia Sjoborg, with Govalent
Amanda Staam, with Corpoubet AT
SWITZERLAND
Robin Godel, with Global DHI
Mélody Johner, with Erin
Nadja Minder, with Toblerone
Felix Vogg, with Frieda
TURKEY
Kumru Say, with Baladin De L’Ocean La
You can find the full list of entries for this year’s Agria FEI Eventing European Championship here.
IMAGE © LIBBY LAW PHOTOGRAPHY
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