Could Great Britain become the first nation ever to become five-time eventing team champions at the Paris Olympics?Team GB arrived in France this week as defending champions, after a brilliant team gold in Tokyo three years 49 years after the last team gold for Britain.Since then, Great Britain has won team gold at the 2021 European Championship in Switzerland, where British riders also claimed the individual gold (Nicola Wilson), silver (Piggy March) and bronze (Sarah Bullimore) medals.At the 2022 World Championship in Pratoni, Italy, Britains Yasmin Ingham was crowned world champion riding Banzai du Loir. Theyhave travelled to Paris as reserves.Great BritainTwo team members from Tokyo are back at the Games Laura Collett and Tom McEwen.Laura rides London 52, the same horse she partnered in Tokyo. Since then they have won two five-star titles Badminton in 2022 and Luhmuhlen last year, and were a part of the gold medal-winning team at last years Europeans.Tom McEwen won individual silver in Tokyo and is riding a different horse at these games JL Dublin (the horse on whom Nicola Wilson won those European gold medals three years ago).Since taking over the ride from Nicola, Tom and Dublin have been runners up at the Kentucky CCI5* for two years running, as well as third at the Pau CCI5* last September.Ros Canter completes the British line up for Paris on her 2023 Badminton winner Lordships Graffalo, who also carried her to individual European gold last summer.But while Britain fields a very strong team for the Games, they face plenty of competition. The new three-per-team with no drop score format that was introduced in Tokyo remains in place and leaves no room for error.GermanyGermany also has four Olympic team gold medals to its name and is hunting a fifth victory in Paris.Team member Julia Krajewski will be out to defend the individual eventing title she won in Tokyo a historical moment as she was the first female athlete to do so.Julia was riding Amande de BNeville in Tokyo, the mare who also carried her to team gold and individual silver at the World Championships a year later.However, the horse has since retired and Julia will ride Nickel 21 in Paris, the 10-year-old gelding she piloted to victory at the CCIO4*-S at Aachen in Germany earlier this month.Originally the team reserve, Julia was called up following Sandra Auffarths withdrawal. She is joined by Christoph Wahler (riding Carjatan S) and Michael Jung (on Chipmunk FRH).Michael is a dual Olympic champion himself, having won back-to-back individual golds at the London 2012 and Rio 2017 Games. He also collected team gold in London and team silver in Brazil.This is another strong team, with Christoph and Carjatan having been a part of the World Championship-winning team in 2022, as well as helping to secure European team silver last year.Germanys reserves are Calvin Bockmann and The Phantom of the Opera.Germanys recordGermany holds the record for most individual Olympic Eventing titles with a total of five. In fact,German riders have won all of the last four Olympic individual titles:Hinrich Romeike (riding Marius) in Beijing in 2008Michael Jung (Biosthetique Sam FBW) in London in 2012 and Rio de Janeiro in 2016Julia Krajewski (Armande de BNeville) in TokyoAustraliaAustralia took team silver in Tokyo and they return with two of the same combinations in Kevin McNab riding Don Quidam and Shane Rose aboard Virgil. Christopher Burton completes the trio with Shadow Man.Shanes appearance in Paris is nothing short of miraculous, as a fall earlier this year left him so badly injured that he had to learn to walk again, let alone ride.He rides Virgil in Paris, with whom he finished tenth place individually in Tokyo, having previously taken team silver at the Beijing 2008 Games and bronze in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.Kevin and Don Quidam finished 14th individually in Tokyo, while Chris Burton was a part of the bronze medal-winning team in Rio eight years ago.Chris has been away showjumping for the last few years, but turned his focus back to eventing when offered the ride on British rider Ben Hobdays Shadow Man earlier this year. Chris will be lining up at his third Games.Australias travelling reserve is Shanae Lowings with Bold Venture.FranceWe dont see French riders competing on British soil as often as the other nations, which perhaps makes them easy to forget but overlook them at your peril, because history tells us that this team knows how to pull off the big results when it really matters.France won team gold in Rio eight years ago andtook team bronze in Tokyo. Its Paris team fields two members of that side who are also former gold medallists.Its the same line-up of riders that took bronze at last years European Championship, but there is one change of horse, as this time 2004 team champion Nicolas Touzaint brings the 11-year-old Diabolo Menthe.Rio 2016 gold medallist Karim Florent Laghouag will partner his Tokyo 2020 ride Triton Fontaine.Completing the line-up is Stephane Landois and Chaman Dumontceau, who joined Nicolas and Karim to clinch that European bronze last summer on home ground at Haras du Pin.Frances reserves are Gireg Le Coz and Aisprit De La Loge.USA and New ZealandThere are many more strong nations also bidding for a place on the podium, including the USA and New Zealand who took world silver and bronze respectively in 2022. There are a number of exciting individuals too.Australia and USA riders also arrive in Paris with four Olympic team golds under their belt, so the fight for a historic fifth team gold is a four-way battle.In fact, Australia already holds the unique record of winning three team titles in a row:Barcelona in 1992Atlanta in 1996On home ground in Sydney in 2000Australias first gold was earned in Rome in 1960.Other nationsSweden has claimed a hat-trick of team golds in the past, their last victory being in Helsinki in 1952.Both France and The Netherlands have claimed Olympic team gold twice, while Italy stood top of the team podium just once. That was in Tokyo in 1964, when team member Mauro Checcoli and Surbean also clinched individual gold.A total of 27 countries will be represented in the Olympic eventing in Paris, with 16 teams and 11 countries represented by individuals. There are65 horses and riders due to compete.The first horse inspection took place this morning, and the action gets underway tomorrow morning with the dressage phase.View our Olympic timetable and find out how to watchMain image (above): Britains team gold medallists pictured in the lap of honour at the delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympics Games (from left) Oliver Townend and Ballaghmor Class, Laura Collett and London 52, Tom McEwen on Toledo de Kerser. Image by FEI/Libby LawRelated contentAn incredible place: Olympic eventers settle in at VersaillesIm thrilled for my whole team: Ros Canter reclaims top spot on World RankingsBecky Moody promoted to Team GB dressage trio and Andrew Gould confirmed as alternate for Paris GamesA great balance of experience and potential: Para equestrian squad named for Paris 2024Carl Hester and Andrew Hoy share Olympic memories and secrets to longevity ahead of Paris 2024The post Paris Olympics eventing form guide: fifth gold for Team GB? appeared first on Your Horse.

Julia Krajewski (GER) and Nickel 21 will be the first to see in dressage and the pathfinders on cross country in Paris. Photo by Tilly Berendt.Following the First Horse Inspection and a chef dequipe meeting, we now have the confirmed start list and times for the Olympic eventing, which commences with dressage tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. local time.You can view the full drawn order here.The drawn order of nations is as follows:1. Germany2. Australia3. Canada4. Ireland5. Switzerland6. USA7. Poland8. Sweden9. Great Britain10. Brazil11. New Zealand12. Japan13. Italy14. Netherlands15. France16. BelgiumThe remaining spots are given to individual riders:SpainHungaryCzechiaChinaEcuadorFinlandDenmarkPortugalAustriaMoroccoSouth AfricaLooking to the times for dressage (and remember, the riders will go out on cross country in the same order they were put in for dressage), Germanys Julia Krajewski and Nickel 21, who slotted into team Germany late after the withdrawal of Sandra Auffarth and Viamant du Matz, will be the pathfinders. As expected, Michael Jung and Chipmunk FRH will anchor the Germans, with Christoph Wahler and Carjatan S sent out second.Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake will be the pathfinders for the U.S., with Liz Halliday and Nutcracker out second and Boyd Martin anchoring the team as last to go with Fedarman B.For the reigning gold medalists, Team Great Britain will send Tom McEwen and JL Dublin out first, followed by Laura Collett and London 52 and Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo as anchors.If youre planning to follow along live, be sure to check out our How To Watch guide for information on timetables and where you can watch. Full timing and scoring will also be available here.#Paris2024: [Website] [Equestrian Schedule, Timing, Scoring] [Peacock for U.S. Viewers] [How to Watch Guide] [Ticket Resale Market] [Spectator Guides] [ENs Coverage]

The good news is that all of the U.S. Olympic Eventing Team horses (including their reserve horse) presented this morning at the Olympic equestrian venue in Versailles passed the first inspection today. The bad news is that the last two days here in France have been a roller coaster of ups and downs for the members of the U.S. Olympic Eventing Team. On Wednesday (July 24) it was announced that Will Coleman, who had been named to the U.S. Team with Off The Record on the evening of June 3rd, would now be riding his direct reserve horse Diabolo instead.Then early this morning, fate intervened for Coleman again. Diabolo had a foot abscess, and Coleman made the difficult decision to withdraw. With their departure from the roster, traveling reserve pair Elisabeth Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker moved onto the team. The U.S. second reserve pair of Sydney Elliot and QC Diamantaire (who had traveled to France but were stabled off site) moved into Olympic stabling as the new traveling reserve for the team.After the shuffle, the new U.S. Olympic Eventing Team line up is: Elisabeth Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker, a 2014 Irish Sport Horse gelding (Tolan R. x Cobra) owned by Chris Desino, Rob Desino, Deborah Halliday, Liz Halliday, and Renee Lane and cared for by Abby Steger Boyd Martin (Cochranville, Pa.) and Fedarman B, a 2010 KWPN gelding (Eurocommerce Washington x Fedor) owned by the Annie Goodwin Syndicate and cared for by Stephanie Simpson Caroline Pamukcu (Springtown, Pa.) and HSH Blake, a 2015 Irish Sport Horse gelding (Tolan R. x Kannan) owned by Mollie Hoff, Sherrie Martin, Caroline Pamukcu, and Deniz Pamukcu and cared for by Chloe Teahan Traveling Reserve: Sydney Elliott (Hoffman, N.C.) and QC Diamantaire, a 2010 Oldenburg gelding (Diarado x Sandro Hit) owned by Carol Stephens and cared for by Caitlin Martin 1 of 4 Boyd Martin and Fedarman B. Photo by Cealy Tetley Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake. Photo by Cealy Tetley Liz Halliday and Cooley Nutcracker. Photo by Cealy Tetley Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire. Photo by Cealy Tetley U.S. Chef dEquipe Bobby Costello explained the series of events that transpired, The last 48 hours have truly been tough for our team, but particularly for Will Coleman. Off The Record looked well in training camp, but Wills direct reserve, Diabolo, continued to impress, and was physically in such great condition, so we made the decision to place him into the team roster before moving to the venue. Diabolo trotted up 100% sound prior to shipping from training camp and arrived at the venue happy and fit. Unfortunately, shortly after settling into stabling, he showed significant signs of discomfort and the team immediately got to work to address a potential abscess in the right front foot. Team Farrier Beck Ratte, Dr. Susan Johns, Diabolos groom Hailey Burlock, and Wills wife, Katie, were so diligent and tireless in treating Diabolo, and he did in fact trot up sound last night. With that said, we felt after weighing the risk, it was not in Diabolos, or the teams, best interest for him to move forward with the competition this week. Were all truly devastated for Will and his entire team. It takes so much work to get to this moment, and its just such an unfortunate turn of events. Weve got to look forward though. We are heading into this competition with four competitive horses and l feel very confident in this teams ability to be successful here in Paris.Of the other horses presented to the Olympic Eventing Ground Jury for inspection today, there were five horses from other countries that were held, four of which returned for re-inspection and were accepted to start competition tomorrow (Moroccan horse Cash in Hand ridden by Noor Slaoui, Swiss horse Toubleu de Rueire ridden by Melody Johner, Swedens horse Golden Midnight ridden by Malin Asai, and Great Britains 2022 World Championship gold-medal horse Banzai du Loir ridden by Yasmin Ingham). Sadly, Austrian horse, DSP Fighting Line, to be ridden by Lea Siegl was spun from the Paris Olympics competition; that pair had competed in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, but it was not to be this time.Eventing competition starts tomorrow at the Palace of Versailles at 9:30 a.m. Central European Time (3:30 a.m. U.S. East Coast Time, 2:30 a.m. U.S. Central Time, 1:30 a.m. Rocky Mountain Time and 12:30 a.m. U.S. Pacific Time). NBCs Peacock and NBCOlympics.com will livestream the competition from 3:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time.Find the full Olympic equestrian television and streaming schedule here.Find the order of go for the dressage phase here.For more news, visit our 2024 Paris Olympics main page.Thanks to CareCredit for our spring and summer equestrian coverage.The post 2024 Paris Olympics: After Roster Shuffle, U.S. Eventing Team Ready to Roll in Paris Olympics appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The equestrian events of the Paris 2024 Olympics will take place in the Park of the Palace of Versailles, which is steeped in history and has equine links dating back centuries.Horses had a major presence in Versailles throughout the 17th and 18th century, making the decision for it to host the equestrian events an obvious one. With this in mind, here are some interesting and little-known facts about the Olympic venueThe ParkAll dressage and showjumping, including para dressage, will be held near the Royal Star esplanade, which is located to the west of the Grand Canal on the edge of the park.The cross-country course runs through wooded areas of the park, along the banks of and even across the Grand Canal.Visitors to the park rarely walk through these areas and works to clear the woods had to be conducted. These have made the area sounder and have improved its overall condition, thus leaving a positive legacy for the estate.The temporary grandstands and facilities have been built to showcase the picturesque setting without harming the exceptional historical heritage of Versailles, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.The Palace of Versailles was the first cultural public institution in France to issue a carbon footprint report.Around 40% of the 800-acre park is forestry, with almost 350,000 trees, all of which do their bit to purify the air and combat climate change.Each replanted linden tree on the Versailles estate individually captures 20 kilograms of CO2 emissions every year.The stablesHorses are stabled by discipline. Each stable is 4m x 3m and has rubber matting. Bedding (straw or shavings) is all sourced in France.Equine facilities include:3 sand rings where horses can be lunged6 exercise areas, one of which is covered1 gallop track and a grazing area is accessible throughout the day.Access to the stables is restricted to authorised persons, as is the case at all FEI events.The stables will be closed for six consecutive hours during the night so that the horses can rest and sleep undisturbed.The stables are covered by surveillance cameras and stewards will quietly carry out regular checks of the horses throughout the night. If there are any problems, the relevant groom will be contacted.Horse welfare3 horse ambulances will be on site every day, increasing to eight ambulances on cross-country day.There are four members of the FEI Veterinary Commission, plus four official vets and five treating vets.There are also two imaging vets, a laboratory vet and two technicians, and an equine physical therapist vet on site.On cross-country day, the number of vets increases to include 22 at various fences around the course, plus emergency vets and an anaesthetist.A temporary veterinary clinic has been set up close to the stables and is open between 6am and 10pm, with emergency assistance available around the clock.The referral hospital is Grosbois Equine Veterinary Clinic, which is 40 minutes from Versailles.Strict biosecurity measures include every horses rectal temperature being taken and reported each morning and night.Foot mats with disinfectant and hand sanitiser must be used every time a person enters and exits the horse area.The PalaceThe Palace of Versailles is one of the greatest achievements in French art and architecture of the 17th century.The original small brick and stone hunting pavilion was built in 1623 for Louis XIII, King of France from 1610 to 1643.It was later transformed and extended by his son, Louis XIV, the Sun King (King of France from 1643 until his death in 1715).At the time Versailles was only a village. It was destroyed in 1673 to make way for the new town Louis XIV wished to create.In 1682, the King installed the Court and government at Versailles, which became the centre of the French political and social system known as lancien regime (the old rule).The term chateau was used to refer to the rural location of a luxurious residence, as opposed to an urban palais (palace). It is still common to refer to the Palais du Louvre in the heart of Paris and the Chateau de Versailles out in the country.The Great and Small Stables were commissioned by Louis XIV to accommodate the households horses and became the greatest royal construction project for housing horses ever undertaken.Work on both buildings was launched in anticipation of the move of the court and government to Versailles. The project was managed by architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart, the Palaces main architect, and was executed in just three years from 1679 to 1682.The stables are opposite the Palace and their location testifies to the important role of horses in the history of France.During the reign of Louis XIV, the Royal Stables were one of the most important departments in the Kings House.Nearly 1,500 men looked after the more than 2,000 horses that were stabled there at any time.Today, the Royal Stables are home to collections and different establishments, such as the National School of Architecture of Versailles, the Centre for research and restoration of the museums of France, and the Equestrian Academy of Versailles.The ridersThe Olympic stadium in the Park of the Palace of VersaillesIn Paris, there will be 65 starters in the eventing, 60 starters in dressage and 75 in the showjumping.Equestrian has been in the Olympic Movement for 112 years, celebrating its centenary at the London 2012 Games.Germany is by the far most successful nation in equestrian events at Olympic Games, having won a total of 45 team medals (including 26 gold) and 50 individual medals (18 of these being gold).Dressage rider Isabell Werth, representing Germany, has won the most medals. She has 12 medals to her name from six Olympic appearances, including individual gold in 1996 with Gigolo, and team gold in 1992, 1996, 2000, 2008, 2016, and 2020.The French rider with the most Olympic appearances is event rider Nicolas Touzaint, who has competed in five of the last six Olympic Games, missing only Rio in 2016.Paris will be Nicolas sixth Olympic Games. He has won two Olympic medals (team gold in Athens 2004 and team bronze in Tokyo 2020).A total of 49 nations will compete in equestrian at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. This is the second highest number after Tokyo 2020, where 50 nations competed.The sport17 nations will participate in all three disciplines.10 nations of these have teams entered: France (host nation), Australia, Belgium, Canada, Great Britain, Germany, The Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, USA.7 nations are represented by teams or individuals in all three disciplines:Austria (Teams in dressage and jumping; two individuals in eventing)Brazil (Teams in jumping and eventing; one individual in dressage)Denmark (Team in dressage; one individual in jumping and one in eventing)Ireland (Teams in jumping and eventing; one individual in dressage)Portugal (Team in dressage; one individual in jumping and one in dressage)Spain (Teams in jumping and dressage; two individuals in eventing)Switzerland (Teams in jumping and eventing; one individual in dressage)Lithuania and Moldova will be represented at Olympic equestrian events for the first time.Lithuania has one individual in jumping and one individual in dressage.Moldova has one individual in dressage.Estonia and Thailand are represented in Olympic showjumping for the first time (both have one individual entered).The UAE has its first team entered in the showjumping.India and Venezuela have one individual competing in the dressage events for the first time.Morocco has one horse and rider competing in the eventing for the first time.Qualifying for the OlympicsThere is a two-year qualification process for every horse and rider competing in the Paris Olympics. The process began at the FEI World Championships in 2022.Each horse and rider must have achieved the relevant Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MERs) and have Certificates of Capability verified by the FEI.No past Olympic title holder in equestrian (team or individual) is automatically eligible for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.Olympic stalwartsOne rider is competing in his eighth Olympics. Brazilian showjumper Rodrigo Pessoa rode at the 1992, 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2020 Games and won three medals (individual gold at Athens 2004 and team bronze at Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000).Britains dressage rider Carl Hester will line up for his seventh Games, as will Japans Taizo Sugitani (jumping), Belgiums Karin Donckers (eventing) and Germanys Isabell Werth (dressage).Seven riders are riding at their sixth Olympics:Steffen Peters (USA) in dressageNicolas Touzaint (France) in eventingRolf-Goran Bengtsson (Sweden) in jumpingVictoria Max-Theurer (Austria) in dressageMcLain Ward (USA) in jumpingSteve Guerdat (Switzerland) in jumpingRamzy Al Duhami (Saudi Arabia) in jumpingYoungest & oldest ridersThe minimum age to compete in dressage is 16 for riders and eight for horses.In eventing, riders must be 18 and horses must be eight.In showjumping, riders must be 18 years of age and horses must be nine.Age as of 31st December 2023 was the cut off for the Paris Olympics. So any horse or rider who met the minimum age required on or after 1 January 2024 are too young to compete.The youngest rider competing is Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi for the UAE, who is 21 years old and will compete in showjumping.The oldest rider is Juan Antonio Jimenez Cobo from Spain, who is 65 years old and will compete in dressage.View our Olympic timetable and find out how to watchMain image: Germanys Julia Krajewski is pictured riding Nickel 21 in the main arena in front of Palace of Versailles at the Paris Olympics. Image by FEI/Benjamin ClarkRelated contentOlympic eventing: how it works and useful facts about ParisParis Olympics eventing form guide: fifth gold for Team GB?An incredible place: Olympic eventers settle in at VersaillesCarl Hester and Andrew Hoy share Olympic memories and secrets to longevity ahead of Paris 2024Becky Moody promoted to Team GB dressage trio and Andrew Gould confirmed as alternate for Paris GamesThe post Interesting facts about the equestrian venue for the Paris Olympics appeared first on Your Horse.

Dr. Steve Adair describes common signs of pain and discomfort in horses with osteoarthritis.The post Signs of Discomfort in Horses with Osteoarthritis appeared first on The Horse.

Many Olympic horses will fly part of their journey this year, with veterinarians and elite grooms ensuring a smooth, more tranquil experience than traveling by truck.The post How Horses Travel by Air to the Olympics in Versailles appeared first on The Horse.

A new three-per-team with no drop score format was introduced at the delayed Tokyo Olympic Games and it remains in place for Paris. So what does this mean and how does it work? Read on to find outThe team and individual competitions in eventing will run concurrently over three consecutive days from 27 to 29 July. Dressage tests will be completed on Saturday 27 July, with the cross-country phase taking place on Sunday 28 July and the final jumping phases happening on Monday 29 July.All three scores countThere are three horses and riders on each team and all three scores count towards the teams overall final score. A rider rides the same horse throughout the competition.Results from each phase are added together for a final score. It is the lowest score that wins, both for the team and individual medals.Horses can be substituted for the team competition and a horse/rider combination may be substituted by a reserve combination for a medical or veterinarian reason in any of the three tests after the start of the competition.This means one horse and rider might do the dressage and cross-country, but then a reserve rider takes over for the final showjumping phase should the original pair be injured or similar.Any substitution will incur a penalty for the team of 20 points and only one substitution per team is permitted.Any substitute horse and riders called up will compete for the team only; they will not be able to qualify for the individual competition.Starting orderThe dressage test that will be ridden is the 2024 Olympic Games 5* test (short).The top 25 at the end of the team showjumping phase on Monday morning will qualify for the individual jumping final. These horses and riders will jump their second rounds on Monday afternoon.A drawn starting order will be used for the dressage and cross-country phases, but in the final showjumping rounds riders will go in reverse order of merit.As well as Friday mornings first horse inspection, there will be a second horse inspection on Monday 29 July before the final jumping phase takes place.The line upGerman rider Julia Krajewski made history at the delayed Tokyo Olympic Games when she became the first-ever female athlete to claim the Olympic individual eventing title.Other individual medallists in Tokyo were Britains Tom McEwen, who won silver aboard Toledo de Kerser, and Australias Andrew Hoy, who took bronze with Vassily de Lassos. Tom is also competing in Paris, but on a different horse JL Dublin.Great Britain come to Paris as the defending champions after winning team gold in Tokyo. Australia won team silver last time, ahead of France, who claimed bronze.Olympic eventing: fascinating factsThe oldest event rider competing in Paris is Ecuadors Ronald Zabala Goetschel, who is 57 years old.The youngest rider is Veera Manninen from Finland, who is 24 years old.Karin Donckers from Belgium is contesting her seventh Olympic Games the most of any rider competing in Paris.When the Olympic Games were last staged in Paris in 1924, The Netherlands claimed team gold and team member Adolph van der Voort van Zijp claimed the individual title with Silver-Piece.History was made when the USAs Lana du Pont was the first woman to compete in an Olympic three-day-event in Tokyo in 1964.There have been three back-to-back individual Olympic eventing champions:The Netherlands Charles Pahud de Mortanges rode Marcroix to victory on home ground in Amsterdam in 1928 and again in Los Angeles four years later.New Zealands Sir Mark Todd was back-to-back champion with Charisma in Los Angeles in 1984 and Seoul in 1988.Germanys Michael Jung was victorious aboard Sam at London 2012 and again at the 2016 Games in Rio.Paris Olympic eventing in numbers27 countries16 teams65 horse/athlete combinations11 countries represented by individualsMeet the officials Overseeing the Olympic eventing will be:Technical Delegate: Marcin Konarski from PolandAssistant Technical Delegate: Gaston Bileitczuk from FranceGround Jury President: Christina Klingspor from SwedenGround Jury Members: Xavier Le Sauce from France and Robert Stevenson from the USACourse Designer: Frances Pierre Le GoupilTeam nationsCountries fielding teams for the eventing at the Paris Olympics are:AustraliaBelgiumBrazilCanadaFranceGermanyGreat BritainIrelandItalyJapanNetherlandsNew ZealandPolandSwedenSwitzerlandUSACountries fielding individuals are:AustriaChinaCzech RepublicDenmarkEcuadorFinlandHungaryMoroccoPortugalSouth AfricaSpainView our Olympic timetable and find out how to watchMain image: Germanys Michael Jung is pictured riding Chipmunk in the main arena at the Paris Olympics with the Palace of Versailles in the background. Image by FEI/Benjamin ClarkRelated contentParis Olympics eventing form guide: fifth gold for Team GB?Interesting facts about the equestrian venue for the Paris OlympicsAn incredible place: Olympic eventers settle in at VersaillesIm thrilled for my whole team: Ros Canter reclaims top spot on World RankingsThe post Olympic eventing format: how it works appeared first on Your Horse.

Riding a strong horse isnt exactly a picnic: it is tiring, and it can even be scary. So its no surprise that the prevailing myth is that one way to control a strong horse is to use a stronger bit. However, the way to tackle the issue of having a strong horse depends on why they are strong and what you mean by that.Its not about what my perception of what a strong horse is, but what the owners perception is, explains BHS coach and certified bit fitter Louise Bates.It can be adrenaline if its an event horse taking control on the cross-country course, or a horse who is not in self-carriage so is using the bit as a way of coping. Maybe they snatch the reins, pull their head down or throw their head up. It could be because the horse is experiencing discomfort because of their bit or from elsewhere in their body.What I consider to be a strong horse is probably slightly different to what you consider it to be.There are so many factors that come into play, including rider experience and ability, horse and rider fitness levels, horses level of training.For example, you may not consider a keen horse who takes you into a fence with confidence as being strong but sometimes an eager horse like this can leave you feeling like you dont have control, which is the predicament I have always had with my Irish sports horse. I quickly learned that changing the bit isnt a quick fix.I asked Louise about three common scenarios where a horse could be considered strong, and Ive shared her advice below.The horse who leans on your handsIf youve ever ridden a horse who leans on your hands youll know that it quickly gets tiring for you as the rider; your aching arms feel as though they are carrying the horse along. In this scenario, Louise recommends beginning by checking that your horse is comfortable with the mouthpiece you are using.People think horses wont lean into discomfort but its actually the other way around horses will lean into discomfort, she explains. You want to make your horse feel as comfortable as possible, so start with the mouthpiece.If the horse is not working in self-carriage or is naturally downhill, they are more likely to lean on your hands, adds Louise. This can be a training issue or there could be some discomfort through the body, so I would refer riders to a coach, vet, physio, saddle fitter or dentist, depending on what I believe the issue could be, to assess the situation fully.Types of bits to helpA bit with a light, mobile link in the middle. If its built anatomically and gives space for the pre-molar teeth, ideal.A bit that uses a little more bar and lip pressure but provides tongue and poll relief as every component moves. As the horse relaxes you need the bit to relieve pressure, which in turn removes resistance, making it useful for encouraging self-carriage.The powerful horse who is genuinely keenIts lovely to know your horse is excited to work, but it can make things tough on you as the rider if youre struggling to stay in control.There are a few things to take into account, like do they pull their head down or throw it up? That would decide what pressure points you would want to use or avoid, and you could decide on a bit from there, advises Louise. Here, you could use a milder mouthpiece and then try different cheeks to target the different pressure points.In the process of trying different bits, Louise wouldnt swap everything at once.I would only change one thing at a time, and this may include making adjustments to your bridle first and then moving onto your bit, she explains. Making changes step by step, rather than jumping straight to the mildest or strongest option, is important to give you and your horse time to adjust to the changes; this is to help you feel confident and safe.It can be a process to get it right. I only get to see a horse in a small window, and not in the moment when their adrenaline is pumping.Suitable bits to helpCurve gag: this shares the pressure over more points, which is better for horses who throw their heads up.Running gag: this is good for a horse who puts their head down, as it has a lifting action.The horse who is hard in the mouthIf your horse is really strong, there is usually something going on physically to cause this, whether its in their mouth or somewhere else in their body, advises Louise. Horses in pain will lean into that pressure. If your horse is bolting then it is usually pain-related and changing the bit may not make any difference.Its important for you to be safe when riding, so you should have your horse fully investigated by your vet. Youll likely need to enlist the input of a physio, equine dental technician and saddle fitter as well. If the horse is deemed healthy and pain-free, then you should start with groundwork and basic schooling.In this situation, Louse recommends you have your horse assessed by a bit fitter.I have put double bridles on horses before to share the pressure across two mouthpieces, but Ive also swapped the horse to a much milder bit that distributes pressure around the head, says Louise. It depends on why the horse is so strong. Sometimes less is more, but the most important thing is to be safe.Here, its key to see a professional to make sure your horse is comfortable and you will be safe. Do not try a milder bit without professional guidance.Riding a strong horse: the riders roleIt can be difficult to know when you need to address your riding, but Louise shares that its not uncommon to see riders who dont understand how they or their bit are affecting their horse.I find that educating the rider as to what happens with the bit in the horses mouth is helpful, says Louise. Many riders dont realise that the more the mouthpiece moves, the less stability they have.It also comes down to the feel that riders what to achieve.Some riders want it to feel light, but dont realise that they dont have a proper connection or thoroughness with such a light contact, explains Louise. They may also be using the reins to balance, or have an asymmetrical contact, which can make the horse feel hard in the mouth.Its important that you dont just assume the problem is with your horse. Riders who are heavy handed or use the reins to balance because they dont have an independent seat, for example, can cause a horse to be strong. Consult a trainer for advice.Louise recommendsA stabilising cheekpiece for unbalanced or asymmetrical riders: this makes the riders job easier and will give the horse clearer signals.Doing your homework: research the bit youre currently using to understand how it works in your horses mouth.Changing to a stronger bitIts not necessarily about using a stronger bit, but one that makes use of different pressure points in different ways.Its when a rider is looking for more adjustability, says Louise. Usually this is when youre stepping up a level at competition or the horse has matured. Perhaps you cant quite make the adjustment into a fence, or within a dressage movement. Its not about having a stronger bit, but one that lets you have a different type of control.It can be useful to have different bits for different disciplines, especially if your horse is only strong in one. Make sure the bit you choose is allowed for what you plan to compete in too the rules vary.Remember: eliminate other issues before assuming your horse needs a stronger bit. Make sure theyre not in pain, their teeth checks are up to date and all tack fits correctly, for example. Speak to your vet for advice.Changing the bit isnt a quick fixMy Irish sports horse, Romeo, loves to jump. I bought him 10 years ago and it quickly became apparent that he didnt appreciate beinginterfered with; if I tried to check him once hed found his line to a fence, hed charge like a rocket.It has left us clattering through jumps when he chips in a stride at the last moment instead of listening to my attempted adjustments. Ive fallen off a fair few times because of this, and it knocked my confidence; I was nervous to ride him with jumps up in the arena for a short time as even that could get him excited and strong.For a long time, we only did pole work or gridwork, as this type of work helped him to maintain a steady rhythm.When jumping a course, hed get faster and faster in between each fence.Taking the training routeIve tried plenty of bits in the time Ive ridden him, and nothing seemed to help. If anything, a stronger bit frustrated him more. Instead, we went down a training route.We jumped small fences from trot regularly, as he would maintain a steady rhythm in this gait, and we built up from pole courses to a mix of small fences.He still gets excited about jumping, but hes 16 now and Ive accepted its just the way he is.I look at the positives: Ive developed a quieter seat and hands, my confidence has improved, Im lucky enough to have a horse who loves his job, and Ive learned a lot especially that changing the bit isnt a quick fix.Louise Bates is a Stage 3 BHS Coach and LANTRA-certified bit fitter. She operates nationwide, offering bitting consultations, and stocks a wide range of brands including Neue Schule, Bomber, Myler, Trust and Winderen. Visit her Facebook page here.Lead image: Your Horse Library/Lucy MerrellRelated contentRos Canters grid exercise to slow a keen or strong horse when youre jumpingStrong horse? How to work with him rather than against him over fencesHorse bits: essential A-Z guide for every horse owner and riderThe post Why a stronger bit may not be the solution for a strong horse appeared first on Your Horse.

Its time for the EN team to make their picks for the Paris podium! Want to join the fun? Drop your picks in the comments!The Belgian team at the 2023 European Championships, where they qualified for Paris. Photo by Tilly Berendt.TILLY BERENDTTeam PodiumTeam Gold:On paper, its the Brits all the way they have a 40% win chance according to EquiRatings, putting them miles ahead of the competition and hot favourites to retain their Tokyo gold. And Id love that for them! But with my journalist hat on, rather than my personal affiliation hat, I think it has to be kept in mind that they arent infallible, and as we discovered at the World Championships in 2022 that sometimes, these Championship tracks dont offer enough terrain or dimension to back off bold five-star horses, which makes them harder to ride. I think that could be an influential factor this week, and if it is, we could actually see teams of slightly less experienced horses, or horses whove been produced on the Championship pathway rather than the five-star pathway, rise to the top. And so, heres my wild hair: after a really tough start to the week with both of Will Colemans horses out of contention, the USA claws it back with a milestone result and tops the podium, with three horses who are really, in the grand scheme of things, still at the start of their top-level careers. All three horses and riders are incredibly talented and have all the right stuff to do the job this week, I think theyll make all the pieces of the puzzle fit together, and the confidence lent by their upward trajectory over the last few years will only help them.Team Silver:Reigning champion Julia Krajewski is now on the team, and I think, in a funny sort of way, being pulled in at the eleventh hour is a great mental preparation for this kind of situation, because as the reserve, youll have found your way to making peace with the situation and will be calm, prepared, and simply ready if needed. And so, if you are then pulled in, youve also not really had the reason to get into your own head about it, and now you dont have the time. I think thatll pull an incredible performance out of Liz for the US, and I think itll also help Julia lay down the law in all three phases with her ten-year-old Aachen winner, Nickel 21. I suspect she could finish best of the Germans, because fischerChipmunks penchant for a rail might get him again this week, and I think Christoph and Carjatan will be one of the fastest of the day on cross-country but might lag a penalty or two behind in the first phase if the horse feels the atmosphere of the stadium a bit too much. All in, though, I think theyll each do what needs to be done and wind up on the podium.Team Bronze:I think I probably have to put the Brits here because I cant leave them off the podium, surely, even though they didnt medal in Pratoni. I think theyll have a close battle with France, though, wholl put up one hell of a fight for a medal here, and who tend to be at their best at the Olympics.Individual GoldIts hard to look past the icy-veinedRos Canter and the loveableLordships Graffalo here theyre our reigning European Champions, and won Badminton last year, and Ros, for her part, has also been World Champion. Theydidlook slightly less on-form at Bicton CCI4*-S in May, though they still finished second on a very respectable score, and in her next run at Bramham CCI4*-S she opted to run with the handbrake on to get the rideability back, so that doesnt really worry me much. I dont think theyll lead the dressage thatll be between Michael Jung and Laura Collett, both of whom could also easily win gold, but for the little niggle that both have variable championship form, and sometimes, its hard to get past that mental block. Both are extraordinary competitors, though, and both will have learned an enormous amount from their previous experiences. With all that said, though, I also think well see Frances golden boy,Nicolas Touzaint, pull out the performance of his life on his Boekelo winner,Diabolo Menthe. Theyre capable of starting on a 25 and staying there, and Nicolas, I think, is more likely to feel emboldened, rather than pressured by, the home crowd. It wouldnt surprise me at all to see them get the job done; in the meantime, Ill be dusting off my DuoLingo account ready to tackle that press conference.Dark Horse (Team or Individual)Im going to surprise absolutely nobody here by standing firmly by Belgium. This is their first time fielding a team at an Olympics since London 2012, but over the last Olympic cycle, theyve completely changed their structure now, they have a cohesive team training system and a full roster of support staff, helmed by Chef dEquipe Kai Steffen Meier, who took the role on in 2021 after a successful career as a top-level competitor for Germany. Theyve taken some time to settle into the new way of doing things, and team rider Lara de Liedekerke-Meier has had to also learn how to deal with having her husband play a unique role in her life now, theyre not just business partners and life partners, but they also know how to deal with this different dynamic, a learning process thats been helped along by Laras committed use of a performance coach, who has been an asset in giving her a new command of the mental side of the game. After a couple of tough years for her personally as a competitor, the extraordinary hard work shes put in was rewarded with a string of incredible results, including Belgiums first-ever five-star win at Luhmhlen in June. Shes joined on the team by the exceptionally talented Tine Magnus, who balances competing with helping run her familys chicory farm, and whose Dia Van Het Lichterveld Z is one of the horses who excites me most in our sport, and has done since she was a six-year-old. The ultra-experienced Karin Donckers rounds out the team with Leipheimer vant Verahof, a full brother to her stalwart Fletcha vant Verahof, and much-loved friendly face Maarten Boon is an incredible asset in the reserve position. Theyre on the up and up, individually and as a team, and their qualification for Paris at the European Championships (and their 2023 Nations Cup series victory, by a landslide) is the proof in the pudding. Belgium will become one of the major players in our sport, and this week, they could pull a serious result out of the bag.Dark horse. Photo by Sally Spickard.CHEG DARLINGTONTeam PodiumGoing for Gold: Germany.Theres no denying that there are some formidable teams in the Paris mix, but most formidable of all, for me, is Team Germany. Theyre proven team gold medal winners (from the 2022 World Championships in Pratoni), and theyve got the reigning Olympic Champion and a former Olympic and World Champion in their midst in Julia Krajewski and Michael Jung. They sure are carrying some weighty metal between the three of them, with six Olympic medals and seven from World Championships thats a whole lotta bling right there. Chipmunk FRH (Michaels ride) was a team silver medalist in Rio, has won Kentucky 5*, been second at Aachen and was fifth individually in Pratoni; Julias exciting young talent, Nickel 21, comes to the Games in hot form, having won Aachen a couple of weeks ago; and relative new kid on the block, Christoph Wahler, was part of the golden Pratoni team with Luhmuhlen 5* runner-up and Aachen fourth place finisher Carjatan S. I mean, this team just smacks of quality and it will be no surprise to see them reign supreme in Paris.More silver success for the US? Theres a bit of a crossover here with the dark horse category, as Im pitching Team USA to beat out the British and take silver, although, really, when we look at the World Championships in Pratoni (with two thirds of that silver medal team competing in Paris), Team USA cant be considered dark horses at all, except for the literal dark horse in their ranks, HSH Blake. Theres, understandably, a lot of chat about Team GB, the reigning Olympic team gold medalists, however, in my honest opinion, I think the USA will pip them to the second step on the podium. Time will tell, but the US team are coming in hot, theres absolutely no doubt about that. Team USA are somewhat of a triple threat, with a healthy mix of championships experience courtesy of Boyd Martin (whos been to three Games and four World Championships), Liz Hallidays consistency, and exciting new talent thats been well and truly realized (when they won the individual honors at the Pan-Ams in Santiago) in Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake. And they have Sydney Elliot in the traveling reserve role, who was part of the USs silver success in Santiago. I think spirits will be high in the US camp as they take on Paris, and for good reason.Going against the grain and predicting bronze for Britain.Being British, youd think Id be all patriotic and go for Great Britain to defend their title and take the gold, but for one, I live in Wales, (which yes, is technically Great Britain but I would be keen to see Wales competing under the Welsh flag at the Olympics one day; also, Welcome to Wrexham, yall), and two, Im not one to support a team solely because we share a nationality. Of course, the British team are awesome, and Im throwing absolutely zero shade, but if I honestly think about how I see things playing out in Paris, this is how. I may be totally wrong, but its all part of the fun and well see how things actually stand on Monday. Ill be equally thrilled for whoevers on the podium and whoever goes out there and gives it their best shot on the horse theyre riding; Im unequivocally a champion of our sport and have total respect for everyone talented enough, brave enough, dedicated enough and who show the top levels of horsemanship needed to do it, and I also know that the medals will fall where they may. This games an awful lot about preparation, of course it is, but theres always that little bit of luck on the day with horses. Do I think this teams as strong as the Tokyo team? Absolutely. But do I think history will repeat itself this time around? Im not so sure.Individual GoldKarma comes good, finally, for Michi.We all know how things have played out thus far for Michael Jung and fischerChipmunk (that frangible device, that ducking at the European Championships, that fence at Pratoni). I was thrilled for Julia when she won in Tokyo, but this time I think itll, fairly, be Michis turn at the top of the podium. I distinctly remember the excitement surrounding Chip when he first hit the international stage, and despite all the success hes deservedly had, I cant help but feel hes not quite reached the lofty echelons expected of this talented gelding yet. Hell put that right in Paris. But I think Ros Canters Walter (Lordships Graffalo) will give him a run for his money.Dark Horse (Team or Individual)One word: gold-kini.Shane Rose has said, on record, that hell wear a gold-kini if he wins the Olympics. So yes, I want to put his word to the test and see if, one, he actually owns a gold-kini (what, does he have a whole bunch of mankinis in his closet?), and two, I think it will liven up proceedings dramatically should he wear it to the medal ceremony. On the other hand, no, Im not sure Im ready to witness such a sight, having had the orange debacle burned into my retinas for the foreseeable. I do wonder what Virg thinks of Shanes exploits in underwear as outerwear (or is it in fact swimwear?). In all seriousness, this pair are an epic team; Shanes a fearless competitor and Virgil really is an eventers eventer, up for the game and relishing a good gallop. They were on the team podium in Tokyo and Id love to see them up there in their own right in Paris. Shanes overcome more than his fair share of bumps and bruises to make it to the Games and it would be a cool story should he take home a medal with his veteran campaigner.Time for Another Gold Medal? Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo. Photo by Tilly Berendt.DIANA GILBERTSONTeam PodiumWell, well, well, as if life wasnt complicated enough, Im now being asked who will win what. In short, I have no idea, and I am reluctant to make any guesses really, because this is the Olympics and anything can happen. Add horses, frangible pins and no drop score into that and you really do bust it wide open that Gold is there for the taking, and it really is anyones guess which team will eventually step up onto that top step. Still, there are a few obvious contenders, and I have spent many an hour thinking about this, and weighing up all of the possibilities. This is what I have come up with fingers crossed I get at least one of them right, because I really do HATE being wrongTeam Gold:Again, if I am being perfectly honest, I am not 100% decided on this, but I narrowed it down to two teams and then the patriotic side of me won out, and that is pretty much how I got here. Yep, I would say that Team GB are going to take home an historic consecutive Gold medal. I am also now terrified that I have jinxed it, and that they are now not going to, and it will be all.my.fault. Hopefully that is just my stupid, overly superstitious brain, and that wont actually be the case. On a serious note though, it is very hard to look past the Brits. Admittedly, all but Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo have proved themselves fallible it may be two years since London 52 had that gasp moment at the World Championships in Pratoni, running past the skinny at the bottom of the slide. Similarly, the last minute parting of ways for Tom McEwen and JL Dublin at the final water in Haras du Pin at last years Europeans is still very fresh in my mind. However, they all seem to have come out stronger as a result, and arguably, mistakes like that only help to make you even better next time out. That is certainly the case with Tom and Dubs, who won the CCI4*-S in Kronenberg on a 20.9 dressage, and have since been runner up in both Kentucky (5*) and Luhmuhlen (4*-S). Admittedly, Londons overreach in Luhmuhlen prevented them from entirely proving themselves, but their first phase performance proved what a formidable partnership they are, and their form leading up to that really was impeccable, with wins at Bicton and Burnham Market CCI4*-S under their belt. Add to that the incredible Ros and Walter who, as I say, have yet to fault (oh please, do not let that be a jinx), and it seems difficult to see past this team. Especially since all three horses are almost faultless show jumpers too, which can only ever be a good thing with two rounds of jumping to contend with on Monday. AND (sorry, I know Im getting carried away here) all three also have past Olympic experience, and are aware of the potential psychological pitfalls that may await them, under the pressure of an Olympic Games, and how best to avoid them. SO yeah, short answer Gold = Team GB.Team Silver:I promise I will make this shorter than the veritable essay I gave you for Team Gold. (I mean is anyone still reading my drivel at this point?) I would say that the Silver goes to Germany. They missed out on a Team Medal in Tokyo, and although they did redeem themselves at the World and European Championships with Gold and Silver, respectively, they will not want to leave Paris without an Olympic team medal, that is for sure. They are sending a slightly reduced version of the same team, with Sandra Auffarth,Michael Jung and Christoph Wahler all riding the same horses that they did at those championships, so that in itself would suggest that they are capable of bringing home a medal, albeit not necessarily the colour they would ideally want. Arguably, Michaels and fischerChimpmunk will be well out in front after dressage, but there have been a few too many blips to say that he will remain there, and give the Team the strong shot for the Gold that they will be hoping for. Hold on! I hear you say, Team GB is not without fault, you wrote a dissertation excusing that, why is this different?! I guess in my mind, it has happened once too often, and I just dont want to put all of my eggs in the Chipmunk basket, when time and again he has done something even just clipping a pole to knock him off the top. Add to that Sandra and Viamant du Matzs recent 20 in Aachen, as well as their 20 penalties at the last Olympics, and it just seems like a few things can and have gone a little wrong, and it is those tiny mistakes that could prevent Germany taking Gold. Even Christoph Wahler and Cartajan S who were undeniably consistent at the Worlds and the Europeans, taking fourth place at the latter, had a random 22 cross country penalties at Marbach in the Spring. Even if that was just a blip though, their first phase score is certainly very good, but again, for me, it is not going to be good enough to threaten the dressage divas of Team GB, and again, will prevent Germany taking or keeping the lead overall. Oh heck, were in essay territory againApologies. On to BronzeTeam Bronze:I think this was the hardest one for me to decide on. As in, I knew which two teams I had to choose between for Gold and Silver, but it has proven incrediblyhard to narrow it down for one team for Bronze. The closet Kiwi in me once to say it will be Team New Zealand, and while I am no saying that is out of the question (see the lengthy preamble on how ANYTHING is possible at the Olympics), especially with the collective experience of Team Price leading the way, I do think they will have one hell of a battle to get onto that podium again. It goes without saying that the Belgian team are heading to Paris on one heck of a good wave. Lara de Liedekerke Meier has just won her and their first ever 5*, and the team as a whole, with Laras husband Kai at the helm, have gone from strength to strength these last few years just ask Tilly. However, while I think that they will put up a bloody good fight for a medal, I cant help but think that it will be the Australian team who snatch it from their grasp. It will undoubtedly have been a blow to the Team *NOT* to have their absolute stalwarts, Andrew Hoy and Vassily de Lassos lining up for Andrews millionth games, after an uncharacteristic few blips in the build up, but they have still managed to put together one hell of a team. Even travelling reserves, Shenae Lowings and Bold Venture have a consistent and reliable record, belying their relative inexperience. Chris Burtons return to the sport after a three year absence will have certainly assuaged the loss of Andrew Hoy, especially given the strength of the partnership between he and Shadowman, despite only having been together since earlier this year. He proved he is still the fastest man in eventing with a wall to wall victory in the CCI4*-S in Millstreet on their last run before the Olympics, and with Chris experience as a pure show jumper, the two rounds on the final day should not trouble them at all. Add to that the undeniably consistent and dependable Shane Rose and Virgil part of the Silver medal winning team, and 10th individually in Tokyo and mainstays of Australias Championship team. As if that wasnt enough, Kevin McNab and Don Quidam, also part of that Tokyo team, and 14th individually, have also got the call up. Add all of those ingredients together, and for me, you have a medal winning team. Not a Gold, nor necessarily a Silver, but enough to get themselves up onto that podium in the same dogged and determined way that saw them get there in Tokyo.Individual GoldYou will be overjoyed to read that this was a relatively straightforward decision for me, and as such, I am not going to bore you with the train of thought that led me here. Plus, I dont really think that it needs that much clarification. Its Ros Canter current World Number 1, former World Champion, current European Champion, multiple 5* winner and the wonderful, inimitable and arguably unbeatable, Lordships Graffalo, AKA Walter. Like I say, no elaboration or justification needed. Or if you think that there is, then I suggest you take a look here, and hear from Ros herself just how great this horse is, and in doing so, remind yourself how incredible his jockey is, too.Dark Horse (Team or Individual)This is another brain blocker for me, mainly because I dont really know what counts as a dark horse. Like how do you determine who is or isnt? Since there is no one to police the category or at least clarify the rules, I shall take a stab in the dark (sorry, no pun intended, honest), and say Team Ireland. They have been quietly plugging away, doing the work, and slowly but surely, getting the results. You only need look as far back as Aachen as proof, with a third place in the Nations Cup there. Admittedly, it was not the same team that will line up in Paris, but it is evidence enough of their increasingly good form. Austin OConnor and Colorado Blue, winners of Maryland 5* last year, heads up the Team in Paris, and what a weapon they are. Best of the Irish in Tokyo despite initially being Team Reserve their reputation on cross country day is almost impeccable, bar a blip at Burghley last year. Susie Berry and Wellfields Lincoln may not have similar experience to fall back soon this will be Slinkys first Championship- but Susie has proven herself time and again to be a fierce and determined competitor, bringing home a good result when it counts. Ditto Sarah Ennis and Action Lady M, one of the youngest horses in the field at just 10 years old (and also one of, if not the smallest horse at 14.3hh), but like Austin, Sarah can be relied upon to fly around the cross country close to, or safely within, the optimum time. All of that consistency will add up, and while they may not land on the podium, I would say that they wont be far off, cementing Irelands place as a burgeoning threat to the superpowers of the sport.Will we see a three-time gold medalist? Michael Jung and fischerChipmunk FRH. Photo by Tilly Berendt.ALLIE HENINGERTeam PodiumGreat Britain Reigns (Team Gold)Original, I know but Im a stats girlie through and through, and Team GBs Paris contenders are off the charts in a way that just cant be overlooked. With our Euro Champs Queen and 2023 Badminton winners on the team in Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo, Tokyo #9 rider Laura Collett and her Top-Ten partner London 52 (check out his FEI record, youll see what I mean), and reigning Olympic Silver medalist Tom McEwen aboard previous Euro-Champ JL Dublin, its hard to argue that this will go any other way than victory for the Brits. When you have such a star-studded team that one of the most competitive international selection committees places the current World Champion Yasmin Ingham as your alternate you have to be pretty confident in your chance of success. Lordships Graffalo especially is about as consistent as they come, and after having the last several years to examine every inch of the grounds at Versailles with a magnifying glass, tweaking and adjusting every question and obstacle to create the best show possible, his consistency will be key in whats sure to be a highly-influential phase.Tom and Laura will be reigniting their Team Gold partnership one which obviously proved quite successful just three years ago and when the new blood is as rich as that of Ros and Walters, I cant see any reason why they wouldnt put in just as competitive of results as they did during Tokyo or more so, given the rather less hostile biosecurity measures needing to be taken this year. And to bring it all back to the basics of math and science itself, as I love to do, EquiRatings has just released their Prediction Centre, which places our three GB riders in the top three most likely to medal. Cant argue much with that.Germany Shines (Team Silver)In a once-again ballsy move, placing the reigning Olympic Gold Medalist as your teams traveling alternate shows a level of confidence that I will likely never reach in a lifetime, but despite her attempted benching, Julia Krajewski RETURNS to defend her 2020 title, offering some wisdom only those officially dubbed Best Rider in the World (Literally) can provide with. Nickel 21 may be young, but he has only been outside the top 10 three times in international competition, which is a rousing recommendation when paired with Julias expertise.Team Germany also has the only other actively competing Gold medal winner in the saddle in Michael Jung (a bit overkill if you ask me, give the other teams a chance). Do you think he brought both his Olympic Gold medals with him to Paris? Because theres no way Id pass up the chance to take a picture in front of the Eiffel Tower with three Golds around my neck (a totally realistic and rational mental scenario for myself, of course). And this doesnt even factor in Christoph Wahler and Carjatans offensively-clean record over the past few seasons, as well as their steadily-decreasing dressage marks, making him the most capable to potentially offset any rails or frangibles his teammates may take especially in a game where show jumping happens twice. These three are really going to be putting pressure on Team GB.US Makes a Comeback (Team Bronze)The last time the whole of Team USA was on the podium at the Olympic Games was in Athens 2004, when one of my childhood all-star role-model partnerships in Kim Severson and Winsome Andante took the Individual Silver, leading the US to a Team Bronze. Twenty years seems about long enough to wait I think, especially since our team is as rock-solid as Ive seen yet. When asked a few months back why the US wasnt really publishing a short-list, I told my barn mates, Why would we need to? We pretty much know whos going to be up there.Weve all tuned in to the Will, Boyd, and Liz show at practically every East Coast event all year, and Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake havent missed a single step at every event theyve conquered (and won). While this might not be the equine line-up I or many other Americans may have pictured last fall, of the horses able to make the flight, these are easily our best and brightest. Theyve each held their own internationally, and I think (aside from my aforementioned teams), they have the potential to be highly-competitive against every other combination out there. While we are all absolutely gutted for Will to be out of the running with both his equine partners, last nights addition of Sydney Elliott as our new official traveling reserve means that I get another chance to fangirl my absolute favorite horse in the country in QC Diamantaire, who is more than ready to step in if needs be to help our team. Also Im an American, and itd just be really nice, okay? Will they give us a medal if I ask pretty please?Individual GoldChipmunk FRH has won 50% of every event hes completed since Tokyo where he still finished eighth, by the way so if he can keep the pins in the frangibles this go-round, I feel like this horse will be leading the field from the get-go. Its no surprise for anyone to predict that a German will lead after dressage, and so unsurprising I shall be. This Olympic test is a difficult and strange beast, and so with the lowest 6RA (21.2) and highest Elo rating out of 81 riders, this pairing are going to come out the gate competitive as hell. Provided he doesnt present one of his fluke rounds in cross country or show jump with a spare rail or refusal, I think good ole Chip can maintain a lead over all three days in Paris. If we do see a slip-up though, I guarantee Lordships Graffalo, or London 52, will be an inch behind, waiting to take advantage and surge past so Michi better stay sharp and steer Chip straight if he wants that triple-gold photo op.Dark Horse (Team or Individual)Why not both?Talk about waiting the last time Belgium saw any podium action at the Olympics was in 1920 (only the second year that eventing was featured), and I think a century is about enough time to let pass before we are allowed a repeat. While youve at this point already read through what Im sure is a love ballad to Belgium in Tillys picks, and a great deal of our Belgian love (non-waffle-related, that is) is on behalf of the powerhouse that is Lara de Liedekerke-Meier who frankly, couldve made a team out of just her own horses, if that was allowed. She wins Jardys, she wins Kronenbergs, she wins Luhmhlen and on Origi himself, shes been allergic to anything below fourth or fifth place for some time. My prediction is another fourth or fifth place triumph for this frontrunner, just barely out of the medals, but enough for everyone else in the world to sit up and take notice once again.On the team side of things, Karin Donckers has literally been on the team in every Olympics since Ive been alive, so I think that alone is enough of an endorsement as my grassroots-record self is allowed. And while Tine Magnus isnt someone whos been on my personal radar, her results at Strzegom a few months ago and fairly consistent dressage scores with Dia lead me to think that this lot will be steady crawlers, sneaking their way through the ranks of the Top 6 nations to hold their own.Photo by Shannon Brinkman Photography.EMA KLUGMANTeam Podium:Brits Gold, Germans Silver, Aussies BronzeMost eventing enthusiasts would agree that the dominant nations of the sport at the moment are Germany and Great Britain. The Brits have so much depth in their team that they gave the reigning world champion, Yasmin Ingham, the reserve spot. Any other nation would happily take three Yass to make up their team! The Germans have a robust system of developing riders and horses, and are particularly good at keeping their best horses in their country. I would expect the team gold and silver medals to be a race between the Brits and the Germans, and then the bronze spot to be a tussle between some of the less dominant, but still strong, eventing nations. The Australian team boasts significant experience (of both riders and horses), and generally their strong jumping performances have them in the hunt. However, it is important to remember that the three-person team format means there is no drop score so if a single team rider from GB or Germany has an issue on cross country, they will be out of the medal hunt, meaning it could be anyones game!Individual GoldRos Canter and Lordships Graffalo are my pick to win the whole damn thing. They are extremely consistent, and if the time on cross country proves hard to get, they are almost guaranteed to make the time. Ros is a wonderful role model for all riders in our sport, but particularly for women. Her focus and determination are incredible, and she will be very hard to beat. Finally, she has Olympic experience already, having served as the traveling reserve in Tokyo, so she knows exactly what to expect. We should expect her to leave it all on the court in Paris.Dark Horse (Team or Individual)It seems fitting to pick a horse called Shadow Man to be the dark horse of the competition. Shadow Man has been somewhat in the shadows for the last few years with his original rider Ben Hobday. While he would not have made the extremely competitive British team with Ben aboard, the horse did in fact put competitive scores on the board with Chris Burton of Australia this spring doing enough to gain Australian selection. The individual medals at the Olympics are won and lost in the show jumping and Burto has been jumping 1.50-1.60 tracks for the past several years on his string of jumpers, so Id say his odds in that phase are rather good. If he does manage to win an individual medal, Burto will show that an extremely successful partnership can be forged with a horse in a short amount of time.Austin OConnor and Colorado Blue. Photo by Tilly Berendt.SALLY SPICKARDTeam PodiumThis is a tough one for me, and as much as I think I could be proven wrong, I am still going to bet on the Brits to take another team gold. Yes, there are a couple of mishaps on the records of some of these horses, but in particular I think Ros Canter as the anchor rider will help solidify a strong cross country performance. The one thing that will trouble the team could be this phase, though, as with its dimensions and lack of terrain it *could* be difficult to back off a horse accustomed to running big 5* courses. Truth be told, though, the performance in Tokyo shouldnt be discounted, and the team returns two of its Tokyo riders this year in an effort to bolster another victory.Its been a whirlwind of upheaval amongst the U.S. team, with multiple replacements already made before the competition begins, but I still put my money on the U.S. to get up on the podium, and Im going to manifest into existence a silver medal to match the one earned in Pratoni. Will we missing Will Colemans quiet expertise this weekend? Yes. Will Liz Halliday be strapping on her racecar driver mentality and locking in to step in to this role? Absolutely. I think its a good time to be an American rider, and I think the efforts of the whole system will pay off this weekend.Bronze is also a tough call, as I think you could throw a handful of nations at the wall and still end up with a bronze team. Im going to divert from the predictions I made on EquiRatings last week and put Australia on the podium here. Chris Burton will be a strong rider, despite his absence from eventing for a couple of season (you can take the boy out of eventing, and so on), and with speed being surely a factor come Sunday on cross country coupled with Chris expertise in the final phase, along with the incredible determination of Shane Rose and the experience of Kevin McNab, the Aussies surely have a strong chance for a medal here.Individual GoldRos Canter and Lordships Graffalo are my pick here. Theyre among the most consistent in the field and have already proven themselves capable of winning a championship under pressure. Pierre Le Goupils cross country will look different than his Europeans track, which Ros was victorious on with this horse, but shes a fierce competitor who knows exactly what it takes to win a medal, and shes got a horse whos ready to throw his heart over the line for her in all three phases.Dark Horse (Team or Individual)Most of my friends by now know of my obsession with Colorado Blue, the ride of Irelands Austin OConnor who absolutely exploded onto the mainstream radar as a last minute call-up in Tokyo. This pair then followed up that performance with a 5* win at Maryland in 2023. This horse truly has all of the ingredients to be an individual medalist and/or to assist the Irish to a team medal, and while it remains to be seen whether this track will suit him, I think its safe to say that hes a versatile, rideable horse that will likely thrive on just about any course you throw at him. I would not be shocked to see Austin on the podium or quite close to it when the dust settles come Monday.Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Origi. Photo by Tilly Berendt.GILLIAN WARNERTeam PodiumGreat Britain for Gold: All of these teams bring forward some serious talent. But my pick for top of the podium goes to Great Britain. With Olympic Gold medalists in Laura Collett and Tom McEwen, and 2018 World Champion Ros Canter, this team will be hard to beat.Silver to Germany: While I picked Great Britain for Gold, Germany will give them a tough competition. With three time Gold medalist Michael Jung, Olympic champion (and first woman to win a Gold in eventing!) in Julia Krajewski, and winning Pratoni team member Christoph Wahler, the German team is packed with experience and skill.United States takes Bronze: With the experience of three-time Olympian Boyd Martin, the consistency of Olympian Will Coleman, and talent of individual Gold Pan-Ams winner Caroline Pamukcu, the United States is set to leave an impression.Individual GoldIm anticipating seeing Michael Jung and Chipmunk FRH at the top of the leaderboard. With some wildly impressive sub-20 scores at Bramham and the World Equestrian Games, theyll be tough to catch.Dark Horse (Team or Individual)Ill be keeping my eye on Team Belgium. With Lara de Liederkerke-Meiers recent historic first 5* win for Belgium at Luhmhlen, six-time Olympian Karin Donckers, and 4* winner Tine Magnus, Im excited to see how these ladies progress through the week!#Paris2024: [Website] [Equestrian Schedule, Timing, Scoring] [Peacock for U.S. Viewers] [How to Watch Guide] [Ticket Resale Market] [Spectator Guides] [ENs Coverage]