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.
