Vitali makes history

A flawless performance gives Tim Price a clear lead, with Brits and US riders behind the New Zealander

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RECORDS tumbled on Friday when Tim Price piloted Vitali to a score of 18.7, punching in a new Burghley record.

Their test was flawless – the lithe, gazelle-like black gelding looked fluid and graceful and the pair earned two 10s from Nick Burton at E, for their entry and harmony. Christian Steiner at C and Anne-Mette Binder at H also gave plenty of eights and nines, and as a result Tim established a 5.5-penalty lead.

“I can’t believe it – he’s always had that ability, but he’s a quirky little horse and there are usually a couple of things that are mainly my fault that don’t go quite to plan,” said Tim.

“I felt I was really pushing and riding. I wasn’t focused on being perfect in my position, but on being effective.”

Modestly, the world number one doesn’t sell himself as a dressage rider. But he understands how to get into horses’ minds and said it suits Vitali’s “complex character” that he only had one horse at Burghley so could give him more attention – “not just riding, but thinking things through”.

The horse’s work in the build-up was focused on giving him a desire to go forwards.

He explained: “It’s key with any horse, but everything softens with him, including his mind, when he goes forward. It’s round the corner, a bit of balance and collection, and let’s go, so that becomes the normal. Then with an established horse, you can just put the movements on top of that rhythm, balance and desire.”

MARK MUTTERING