Australian Eventing Team Launches its WEG Assault

Eventing action is now underway at the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games and the Australians that have ridden thus far are well poised after the Dressage phase.

Chris Burton and Cooley Lands are currently in fourth position overall (28.6).

“He tried really hard I am delighted with that horse he’s come a long way,” said Burton.

Burton hasn’t long been teamed up with Cooley Lands so he’s especially pleased with their progress given the circumstances.

“It’s a bit of catch ride as I haven’t had him long.”

Temperatures at the Tryon International Equestrian Centre today soared to over 30 degrees and Burton was comfortable with how Cooley Lands is adapting to the hot and humid climes.

“He’s coping fine. All of the horses are well looked after they are in stables with fans and the grooms are doing a great job.”

When asked about his early views of the cross-country course designed by Captain Mark Phillips he said;

“It’s perfect, I think it will ride really tough and I am looking forward to getting out there it’s a picture, absolutely stunning.”

He also commented on the general vibe of the Australian Eventing Team.

“The Australian Team is the best. We are all such good friends and the team unity is incredible. Our High Performance programme runs so smoothly and it’s a privilege to be part of such a fun team."

Australia’s FEI World Equestrian Games team flag bearer Andrew Hoy also performed in the Dressage today on Vassily de Lassos and finished on 29.8.

The veteran is looking forward to riding the cross-country course which he described as “big”.

“Mark Phillips is a true pro when it comes to designing. He’s built a big course. I jokingly said after walking it that his budget must have been so high because we have so many fences and we have to make a choice of what we jump,” said Hoy.

“I think the first section of the course has definitely improved because of growth of the grass in period of time since the Test Event.”

Asked by an international journalist whether the Australians were a “dark horse“ to win the team event he quipped; “I will let you know on Sunday.”