Brits dominate

Riders wearing the Union flag hold five of the top six places after the first phase, but three-time European champion Michael Jung claims the individual top spot

ROS CANTER posted Britain’s best test with Lordships Graffalo. “Walter” is still on an upward trajectory, and their score of 21.3 for second place at this stage of the competition easily surpassed his previous championship dressage score of 26.2 from Pratoni.

“I looked at old videos from the spring when we were building up to Badminton, and I can’t believe how much Walter has come on,” said Ros after her performance.

Their test was flowing and relaxed. It started with nines for the early halt before the rein-back and Ros was brave in asking for expressive extensions, being rewarded with a nine for the trot. The half-passes were also particular highlights.

Ros’s British teammates were crowded close behind her in the top 10, starting with London 52, who delivered a brilliant test to score 22.4 for fourth. He looked fit to burst and produced the extravagant, powerful and elastic performance for which he is renowned. However, from Laura Collett’s perspective, it was a disappointment and she had to use all her skill to keep “Dan” on side in the rain.

“I had to try and coax him into remembering to listen to me and not think about the umbrellas,” said Laura. “He was a bit fragile as he hates them.”

The 14-year-old Landos gelding made a super entry and first halt, and his test was peppered with nines – and even a 10 for their final halt from the judge at M, Seppo Laine. His trot and canter extensions were beautiful, though the extended walk dropped a few marks.