Eventers off to strong start at World Equestrian Games

Eventing riders Sam Griffiths, Chris Burton and Bill Levett have got the Aussies a strong start on day one of the Dressage competition at the 2014 World Equestrian Games.

First out for the team was Sam Griffiths riding Paulank Brockagh and despite the rain settling in, it certainly did not dampen Griffiths attempts to post a strong result, finishing with 53.3 penalties.

For his good friend and London Olympics team mate Chris Burton, there was no stopping him and his fairy-tale ride Jamaimo following up Griffiths solid result with 52.8 penalties.

But it was Australian team debutant Bill Levett who topped the results ladder for the Aussies, riding Shannondale Titan finishing on 44.7 penalities.

Levett, who has dreamed of representing his country at the World Equestrian Games, was very happy with the score the duo posted.

“I wasn’t sure how he’d react to the atmosphere, it was interesting to see that he didn’t react when the crowd was clapping as he went around the outside.

“I am happy with the test – he is a horse that has a lot of potential and he’s improving at home, but for now I’m happy with where he is at,” said Levett.

All talk at today’s event was on the challenging cross country course that may get tougher if the rain continues.  But the riders are all prepared for what they are about to face.

Day two of the eventing will continue tomorrow with the Dressage, with Shane Rose first up followed by Stuart Tinney and Paul Tapner.

For live scoring and full results from today’s competition visit http://www.normandy2014.com/