last updated on September 23, 2009 13:28

The first horse has just trotted down the centre line in the main arena and there is expectation in the air; Windsor Great Park is poised and ready to recieve some of the best horses and riders in the world over the next six days. 54 horses representing 19 nations will start in the Grand Prix Dressage competition run over two days to decide the winner of the prestigious team competition.

There was consternation in the Dutch camp at the trot up yesterday when Moorlands Totilas was sent to the holding box. The horse that is currently the favourite for individual gold, to be ridden by Edward Gal (NED) was re-presented and passed - much to the relief of the Dutch team and officials.

The British team passed the trot up without drama and are in fine form. World Class Performance manager Will Connell commented in his blog yesterday "The dressage riders, under the tutorage of Reich Marshall Richard Davison (he seems to prefer ‘team captain’ for some reason…) trained in the competition arena today, they seem to be in good heart and up for the challenge... All in all, it is a happy and relaxed build up so far, this is a massive credit to H Power and the team here, all we need now is for the weather to hold. I also hope all those members of the British Equestrian community that don’t yet have tickets will realise that if we want Great Britain to be really great we need you here in the stands supporting the teams!" You can read Will's full blog entry here http://www.equestrianteamgbr.co.uk/news-detail.php?id=347

Grand Prix start list for British riders
Maria Eilberg with Two Sox, 11.27 Tuesday 25 August
Carl Hester with Liebling II, 14.54 Tuesday 25 August
Laura Bechtolsheimer with Mistral Hojris, 11.27 Wednesday 25 August
Emma Hindle with Lancet, 14.45 Wednesday 25 August

If you do get the urge to come down to the championships and support our riders grandstand tickets are still available for all performances and while you're here the BD pavilion is a great place from which to enjoy the unique show atmosphere. With a great spot beside the warm up arena it really is the place to get the inside track. Tickets are available on the door for all performances except Thursday, members and non-members welcome.

Pictured above: Claire Carter, BD fixtures officer puts the finishing touches to the pavilion.  

For more information please visit www.alltechfeiwindsoreuropeans.com/

 Click here for the full starting order

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