I THINK this is a fantastic track. It features a lot of the iconic Badminton fences and the flow works really well. There are some nice fences to get horses and riders into their rhythm, and the early combinations set them up for the first intense question at Huntsman's Close.
The course is reversed this year - this gives competitors more time on the flat, which will help them settle into a rhythm.
The way designer Eric Winter has shaped the course, with more fences in the Vicarage Vee area and missing out the staircase, means that riders will probably not be turning as much towards the end of the course.
Hopefully, that will be in horses' favour, without taking away the complexity and intensity of the questions.
I've given one nine out of 10 rating, for the LeMieux Eyelash Brushes. Before horses get to part a, they will see the whole picture, making it clear for them. It's only once you get over the ditch, you realise how intense that angle is to the final element, which took me a little by surprise.
There isn't much wiggle room if horses were to jump off their line or paddle over the ditch, so riders need to make sure they stay true to the line and then they will sail over the final element.
I remember during the early years I came here, in the long-format days, riding up Worcester Avenue on the roads and tracks and seeing the house in the distance and a sea of people. You would hear the noise of the crowds getting louder as you rode closer. It was magnificent.
I've been very fortunate to have some wonderful rides at Badminton on many horses. My first was at the event's 50th anniversary year on Mr Bumble when I was just out of young riders. I didn't realise The Lake was built up at one end - I thought I was all right with the turn I was making, then we disappeared with a splash.
Denne historien er fra May 02, 2024-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
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Denne historien er fra May 02, 2024-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Better judges' cover a must to protect the sport's future
A group insurance option has been found to protect the officials showing needs but only if enough sign up
IVF with frozen sperm is a 'milestone' in equine breeding
The first successful use of frozen semen in the technique has been recorded in an American study
Challenging ourselves to be and do better for our horses
The 2024 FEI general assembly heard how we should all challenge ourselves to give horses the best lives possible
Scottish jockeys to benefit from fund's top services
A new centre in Galashiels has been built thanks to a legacy donation
How horse simulators could help encourage people into riding
It is hoped the new model will help break down barriers to the sector for a wide range of people
Many horses' needs aren't met: study finds chance to improve
Researchers say all must ensure horses have space, friends, forage and good experiences
Humble pie
How many ladies does it take to cook a shepherd's pie? It’s a complicated one, says Tessa Waugh, on a quest to find appropriate ovens for the impending hunt auction dinner
I love an underdog
The arrival of the winter mud brings with it a Venetia Williams hat-trick, but the day belongs to a warrior gelding, who never stops trying”
Jumping Jack cracks it
A scopey grey is learning to be quick” anda broodmare makes up for lost time
A star is born
A nine-year-old mare helps put Luxembourg on the map and we celebrate a remarkable grey’s comeback