The CIC*** show jumping took place today and as the afternoon wore on it seemed that Di Boddy’s course was going to be quite influential to the overnight standings. Just 13 combinations jumped clear out of 68 starters. Time was tough; riders found themselves clocking up penalties even if they left all of the poles in their cups.
Tim Lips is on fine form following his success at WEG
Sam Griffiths slipped down to third ahead of tomorrow’s cross country after dropping one rail and collecting three time penalties on board Favorit Z. Tim Lips moved up to take Sam’s place as the leader after a beautiful clear round on Bayro. Just 3.9 penalties separate him from second placed Jonelle Price and Faerie Dianimo.
Kevin McNab moved up from ninth place after the dressage following an extremely accurate clear round. Kevin now finds himself sharing fourth place along with Jonathan Paget on Clifton Signature and Oliver Townend on Cooley Master Class. Thomas Carlile and Sirocco Du Gers, William Fox-Pitt and Luxury FH, Gemma Tattersall and Dinky Inky and Paul Tapner and Indian Mill round off the top ten.
Australia’s Brook Staples was in fourth place at the end of the dressage phase however a green Doonaveeragh O Six reacted to the atmosphere and the combination collected 12 penalties. Brook believes that the horse is more than capable and will improve with time. With some older horses to come back in from injury next year and a team of younger rides, Brook is looking ahead to next season. I caught up with the Aussie expat following his round:
Brook Staples interview
Brook Staples and Doonaveeragh O Six
With the cross country set to run in reverse order tomorrow, those at the top will be feeling the pressure as the day wears on. The course is looking great and with just a handful of penalties separating the top ten, there will be no time to spare.
