Sam Griffiths - winner Best Dressed Male
After a thrilling day of cross-country action yesterday the final show jumping phase at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials promises to be nail-biting. Less than one fence separates the top two horses, reigning double title holder Andrew Nicholson's Avebury and Badminton winner Sam Griffiths, this time riding Happy Times.
If Avebury jumps clear, he will become the first horse in the history of the competition to win three times in a row. If Sam takes the title, he will be two thirds of the way to the Rolex Grand Slam, which has only been won once, by Pippa Funnell in 2003.
Thirty-nine horses successfully negotiated the final horse inpsection. Two horses did not present; Sophie Jenman's Geronimo, 34th overnight, and highest placed of the first timers, Hannah Sue Burnett's Harbour Pilot, 7th overnight.
The remaining top 20 horses all passed, although not without some nervous moments. Jock Paget's Clifton Promise [lying in 4th] had to trot up twice but was passed without being sent to the hold box, while Tom Crisp's Coolys Luxury [13th overnight] was sent to the hold but passed on re-inspection.
Also sent to the hold but passing on re-inspection were Imogen Murray's Wiseguy IV [37th overnight] and Matthew Heath's The Lion [25th overnight]. Sadly Fleet Street, the ride of Roo Fox, was held and eliminated on re-inspection.
Mountain Horse once again presented their ‘Horse Care’ prize to the groom of the best cared for horse at The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials.
The first prize; £200 and an outfit of Mountain Horse clothing, presented by the company’s Lucy Ward, was awarded to freelance groom Tristan Hudson, the groom of Xam, ridden by Harry Dzenis.
Tristan works full-time at Rossdales Equine Hospital as a veterinary technician.
“I’ve worked for Harry before and really enjoy it. Land Rover Burghley is an awesome event and I love coming here - I save up all my holiday to do this,” said Tristram, 24. “Xam’s a brilliant horse to deal with. He’s like a pony to look after, he’s quite cheeky.”
The runner-up prize of £100 and a pair of Mountain Horse boots was awarded jointly to the grooms of Paul Sims’ ride Glengarnock, Duncan Smith and Emma Nash.
Judge David Lee said: “We have been observing these horses all week and have looked at all aspects of the competition, including stabling and the stable area, and grooms’ overall care of their horses.
“It was obvious that the winner’s prime consideration is his horse and he takes much pride in his appearance and well-being.”
Sam Griffiths won the best dressed male rider at the horse inspections
