View this post on InstagramA post shared by Julia Krajewski (@julia_krajewski) According to EquiRatings, since the SAP-Cup came into play 16 years ago, the leader after show jumping has gone on to win seven times. And thats exactly the enviable (or perhaps not because, well, pressure) position reigning Olympic champion Julia Krajewski finds herself in with the talented ten-year-old Nickel 21. Theyve been in this position before remember Boekelo? so we wont count our chickens just yet, but Aachens theirs to lose and we may very well find that weve got a winner really quite early in the day. Watch this space.If youre wondering what happened to the leaders after dressage and show jumping, Michael Jung has withdrawn fischerChipmunk FRH before cross country.If you want to follow along with the EquiRatings stats, youll find their form guide here. Catch up on all that went down in the dressage in Tillys round-up report.And youll find the show jumping report right here.And thats where we find ourselves. This is it folks! The dressage is done, the competitors have had their turn over the colored poles, and now weve just got the small matter of cross country (or at least part of it) before we find out wholl be crowned Aachen champion 2024.First, a look at the clubhouse leaderboard as things stand:1 Julia Krajewski and Nikel 21 on a score of 23.9.2 Christoph Wahler and Carjatan S on a score of 28 (+4.1).3 Emily King and Valmy Biats on a score of 28 (+4.1).4 Laura Collett and Dacapo on a score of 28.9 (+5).5 Tim Price and Jarillo on a score of 28.9 (+5).As far as the team competition goes, this is how things are looking: Great Britain 96.3 Australia 100.1 USA 102.1(Team riders indicated by * below.)Click here for the full individual scoreboard. Click here for the full team scoreboard. Our trailblazer today will be Lara de Liedekeike-Meier and Hermione dArville theyre due to get things underway at 9:55am CEST / 3:55am ET. If youre following the US camp, here are the times you need:James Alliston and Karma will get things going for Team USA at 4:58am ET.Liz Halliday and Shanroe Cooley are set to go at 5:33am ET.Alyssa Phillips and Oskar are due to leave the startbox at 6:05am ET.Hallie Coon and Cute Girl will wrap things up for America at 6:37AM ET. If you want to see when your favorites will be heading out on course, youll find the order of go here. Whilst youre waiting for things to kick off, feast your eyes on all of ENs Aachen content and mosey on along to our IG account @goeventing where theres a bunch of great stuff going on courtesy of roving reporter extraordinaire, Tilly Berendt.Ill be here from the first rider out on course to the last to leave the start box, so keep this page refreshed, and watch this space! If youre catching up with this later and are the type to like things in order, scroll and read . You can follow along with the live stream on ClipMyHorse here (subscription required).I am unreliably informed (by the gift that is Google Translate) that have a good ride translates to German as gute fahrt.So, um, gute fahrts guys, and go eventing!ENs coverage of CHIO Aachen in 2024 is brought to you with support from Deirdre Stocker Vaillancourt Real Estate, your prime choice for Aiken, SC property! World Equestrian Festival CHIO Aachen: [Website] [Program All Disciplines] [Program Eventing] [Entries All Disciplines] [Entries Eventing] [Live Stream] [Results All Disciplines] [Results Eventing] [ENs Coverage]6:14amAlyssa is still clear shes at the big combination at 15ABCD._______________________________________________________________________________________________Were into the final 10 to go now. New starter on course: Andrew Barnett and Go Tosca* Score: 32.5 + 0 32.5 (14th)XC Form: Andrews over in Europe this season with Paris in mind and will have given the selectors something to think about when he came 4th in the Nations Cup 4*-S at Millstreet in his most recent run, with a clear inside the time on the cross country and adding just one show jumping pole to his dressage of 29. Go Toscas been on hot form in Australia over the last few years in 18 FEI competitions hes racked up 6 wins and 6 second places There are a couple of 20s on his record, most recently in the 4*-S at Hastings in New Zealand this season, but hes proved he can be quick on his day and based on recent form, were looking at single figures. Can he repeat his Millstreet feat and add nothing today?_______________________________________________________________________________________________Go Tosca is another horse to back off fence 3, but Andrew pushes forward and they make it over they take the flag but hes marked as clear. They make nothing of the first water and looks to really mean business. Meanwhile, Alyssa is on her way home. Shes a little down on the clock as she comes to the open corners at 19ABC. Shes good through there. She comes into the main arena and round to the final water. The clock turns red. Through the water, round the corner, through the keyhole and over the line. Alyssa looks thrilled. 8.8 time for them. 6:10amOh no! Another fly by at 10B this time for Jonelle and Senor Crocodillo. They continue on and are clear up to the penultimate water._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Alyssa Phillips and Oskar* Score: 33.2 + 0 33.2 (17th)XC Form: According to EquiRatings, Oskar is the joint-fastest cross country horse in the field and his recent form certainly backs that up. He won the 4*-S at Terra Nova, adding just 4 XC time penalties, before making the trip to Europe and jumping clear round the 4*-S Nations Cup at Millstreet, where he added just 3.6 time. In 20 FEI competitions together, theres just one 20 and a rider fall on their record and time penalties are almost always low single figures. Hes good on US soil, and Irish, how will Oskar be with the German ground beneath his feet?_______________________________________________________________________________________________Alyssa looks to mean business as she doesnt waste a second at the water at 6ABC and 7AB wow, she was great through there. Meanwhile, Jonelle looks to have put that refusal well behind her as she flies through the combination at 19ABC and into the main arena. The clock turns red as she sets up for the final water. She swings round to the final fence, through the keyhole and over the line. 10 time penalties for them, and 20 jumping. Shed likely have made the time if it wasnt for that drive by.6:07amIan and Millridge Atlantis are quick through the complex at 15ABCD theyre clear so far._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Jonelle Price and Senor Crocodillo* Score: 31.9 + 0 31.9 (11th)XC Form: Kiwi team stalwart Jonelle has both booked her flight to Paris but is getting just a bit more eventing in before the big trip. Shes here with former Samantha Lissington ride Senor Crocodillo, who Jonelle took on in 2022. Theyve got a bit of a mixed bag of results in their seven runs together, with a win in the 4*-S at Kilguilkey House in Ireland, where they finished on their dressage of 31.2, and two occasions where theyve had a 20 out on course. So far this season, theyve jumped clear at both 4*-L and 4*-S, picking up 12 and 17.2 time penalties respectively. One things for sure, theres no better woman to have on board and shell give this 10-year-old a bunch of confidence as he makes his way round the Aachen track._______________________________________________________________________________________________We see Jonelle at fence 3, its caused a bit of trouble this morning but not for this pair. Meanwhile, Ian is at the water at 18AB. They weave through there and kick on towards the main arena. We see Jonelle at the other end of the course shes at the first water at 6ABC and shows us all how thats done. Back with Ian, hes on the final chase to the line he sets up for the gate into the water and then has a little slip on the turn towards the final fence. He takes the flag at the second last but it looks to be OK. They finish with 3.2 time penalties a great round for them. News on Malins flag penalties theyve been taken away.6amNadja has completed with 40 jumping and 24.8 time. Meanwhile, Malin is up at the combination at 15ABCD. Shes flying along, looking really confident. Quidditch looks like hes thoroughly enjoying this. They rattle the second gate at 16B but no problem there. They have been awarded the 15 penalties, but that will be reviewed._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Ian Cassells and Millridge Atlantis* Score: 33.1 + 4 37.1 (24th)XC Form: Based on his parents dairy farm in Ireland, Ian is here with the 10-year-old gelding Millridge Atlantis. Theyve had 13 FEI runs together and theres just one 20 on their card; that came at the Young Horse Championships in 2021. Theyve got three XC clears under their cinch this season in the 4*-S Nations Cup at Millstreet they had a great spin, adding just 2.4 XC time to their dressage of 36.3. They were quick round the 4*-L at Samur in France too just 2 XC time for them there in the spring. EquiRatings have this guy down as amongst the best cross country horses in the field and this looks to be an exciting horse for Ian. Its his first trip to Germany, lets see how he finds it_______________________________________________________________________________________________Malin puts a little bend in the line to the big open corner at 19C and then theres a huge cheer as she comes into the main arena. Shes quickly through the water in there and then flies on through the keyhole and through the finish line 7.2 time for them, and potentially 15 penalties for that flag.5:56amNadja is now at fence 14 and looks to have have put those early problems behind her._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Malin Hansen-Hotopp and Carlitos Quidditch K* Score: 30.2 + 8 38.2 (25th)XC Form: The Golden Snitch will be the last thing on this pairs mind as they set out onto the Aachen cross country today. They were 12th here last year, and 12th in 2021, adding just 5.6 and 2.8 time penalties respectively. Never mind Quidditch, this guy is a total cross country machine EquiRatings have him down as the third best cross country horse in the field. In 33 FEI runs, hes had no XC jumping penalties zero, zilch, null. They come here in winning form, fresh from a finish on their dressage first place in the 3*-S at Strzegom And thats not the only great result theyve had this season they very nearly made the podium in the Kentucky 5* in the spring, where they added just 6.8 XC time penalties to their dressage of 31.1. This pair are on the Olympic selectors watch list, so theyll be hoping the magic continues as they fly round Aachen today._______________________________________________________________________________________________Malin seems to have had a confident start to her round. They drop into the water at 6 and make it look very easy through there. Theyre really covering the ground as they gallop towards the solid table at 8. They take the big step up at 9 and then take the flag at 10B it comes up as a question mark on the live leaderboard.5:53amCyrielle is clear to the water at 18 as we pick up with a new starter_______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Nadja Minder and Top Jobs Jalisco* Score: 33 + 8 41 (30th)XC Form: On the flight to Paris with her Young Riders mount Toblerone, Nadjas first got a date with Aachen. Shes had the ride on Top Jobs Jalisco since 2021, and in 21 FEI runs together theyve had just three XC jumping penalties, all in 2022. They were clear inside the time in the 4*-L Nations Cup event at Boekelo last season, finishing top-20. They were just outside the top-10 in their last run in the 4*-S Nations Cup in Avenches, where they added 13.2 time penalties out on course. This young talent sure is an exciting prospect for the future of Swiss eventing. Lets hope she can add to her successes here today._______________________________________________________________________________________________Oh dear! Nadja has early troubles at fence 3 that three horses (I think) so far that have taken a dislike to that, seemingly unassuming, fence. She sets up for a brave line between the A and B elements at 7 in the water and, uh, they duck out to the side. Another 20 for them. Meanwhile, Cyrielle has completed shes delighted with her horse and points emphatically to him as they crowd clap. 8 time penalties for them.5:50amIzzy and SBH Big Wall have made their way to the tricky combination at 15ABCD. They look to have settled into their round now and Izzys done really well to put those early problems behind her._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Cyrielle Lefevre and Armanjo Serosah* Score: 37.1 + 4 41.1 (31st)XC Form: Cyrielle is here at Aachen with her World Championships ride and cross country machine Armanjo Serosah. Its not surprising that EquRatings have him down as amongst the best cross country horses in the field when you look at his form. You have to go all the way back to 2017 and the geldings first couple of FEI competitions to find anything other than a single 11 penalties for activating a frangible device (which happened way back in 2019). Seriously, there are a whole lotta zeros running down their scoresheet. Theyre no slouches when it comes to time as well they added 7.2 in the 4*-S at Marbach this year, their first run back after a break last season. This pair not only have championships experience under their girth, but have completed at Pau and Badminton too, and theres nothing quite like a long-term partner when youre sat in the start box on cross country day. Clear round coming up..?_______________________________________________________________________________________________Cyrielle is clear up to fence 12 as Izzy comes into the main arena. This young horse will have really learned a lot from his round today. They have a moment over the gate into the water but Izzy sits tight. She gets a really nice shot at the final fence and they complete.5:46amKevin is in the main arena and is over the time. They finish up with 16.4 penalties. That means with Izzys problems as well the USA have gone into the lead in the team competition.5:45amKevin and Miss Pepperpot make nothing of the big hanging log over the river. Update on the leaderboard Julia and Nickel 21 are hanging on to the lead thus far._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Isabelle Taylor and SBH Big Wall* Score: 31.4 + 8 39.4 (27th)XC Form: In 16 FEI competitions, this 9-year-old gelding has had just one 11 penalties for activating a frangible device, thats it. And hes no slouch in terms of speed either. He added just 4 penalties to his dressage score of 28.5 to finish 5th in the 4*-S at Bramham this season and was top-10 in the 4*-S at Bicton where he jumped clear with 8.4 time. He looks to be a real up-and-comer for Izzy, so watch this space. Lets see how he finds his first run on German soil._______________________________________________________________________________________________We see Kevin through the combination at 15ABCD theyre very clean and tidy through there and on track for the time. Oh no! Izzys having early troubles at fence 3. SBH Big Wall takes a real dislike to it and stops, she comes round and they make it over but theres more trouble at 4. The gelding looks to have gone a bit green but Izzys supporting him and they continue on.5:40amGinnys now coming to the end of her round. A great clear for her, she looks really pleased with her horse. 7.6 time for them. Meanwhile, Liz and Shanroe Cooley are coming up to the big log over the river at fence 13. Clear all the way so far for them._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Kevin McNabb and Miss Pepperpot* Score: 31.5 + 4 35.5 (21st)XC Form: Kevins booked his seat to Paris later this month, but first hes having a trip round Aachen with Miss Pepperpot. This sweet mares been with Kevin since 2020, having formerly been piloted by Britains Caroline Harris. Shes had a few ups and downs in terms of XC jumping penalties since then, but shes jumped clear in both her FEI starts this season and kept time penalties to single figures, producing her best finishing score (since Kevin took on the ride) in the 4*-S at Strzegom, where she was 10th on a 42. At Marbach in May, she finished on her third best score of 47.6. Things look to be coming together for this combination so far this season, lets hope that continues for them here today._______________________________________________________________________________________________Liz gives us a riding lesson through the tricky complex at 15ABCD and then weaves on through the trees to the double of rustic gates at 16AB. Meanwhile, Kevin is at the first water and is real smooth through there. Were back with Liz as she makes her way into the main arena. Theyre down on the clock but are absolutely flying the queen of speed is in the house. They come round to the last and through the keyhole 7.6 time for them 43.3 overall.5:35amOh no! Austins had 20 penalties at 19C the open corner just before the main arena. Thats so disappointing for him, especially as he was going so well. He continues on and finishes 20 jumping and 25.2 time for them._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Ginny Thomasen and Capitaine de Hus Z* Score: 37.8 + 4 41.8 (42nd)XC Form: Ginny and Capitaine de Hus Z come here in hot form, having won the 4*-L at Kronenberg in May. They jumped a quick clear across the country that day, adding just 2.8 time penalties. They were clear in the 4*-S at Marbach too, that time adding 14 time. They had a 20 in their season opener in the 4*-S at Burnham Market, and there are a couple of other jumping penalties on their record, but there are plenty of clear rounds too. Will they channel their Dutch luck today?_______________________________________________________________________________________________Ginny and Capitaine de Hus Z are clear to the big combination at fence 15. And weve got another new starter_______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Elisabeth Halliday and Shanroe Cooley* Score: 35.7 + 0 35.7 (22nd)XC Form: Liz is off to Paris in a couple of weeks as traveling reserve for the US team, but before that shes having a spin round Aachen with Shanroe Cooley. This 9-year-old gelding has shown some serious talent since starting his FEI career. From 19 runs, hes got six wins on his card, three 2nds, two 3rds, a 4th, a 5th, an 8th and two 9ths. Theres also an 11th and one rider fall. But man, is that a record to be envious of. Aside from that one fall, there are zero XC jumping penalties on their record not a single one. And we all know Liz is smoking hot quick. Time faults are almost always single figures for this guy. This pair are surely ones to watch _______________________________________________________________________________________________5:28amThose frangible devices have had their say once more for Michi Jung. Hes had 11 penalties at 15A. Hes continued on and completed 7.6 time for them._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Austin OConnor and Isazsa* Score: 35.1 + 4 39.1 (26th)XC Form: Austins booked his place in Paris thanks to some awesome 5* results with his Olympic ride Colorado Blue, not least making the trip to Maryland last season and winning the whole dang thing. While Salty makes his preparations for the big time, Austins here with 10-year-old mare Isazsa. Shes had a bit of a mixed season so far, with a 20 in the 4*-S at Thoresby in the spring, but well put that down to her clearing her pipes, as she came back out in the 4*-S at Bramham known for being a tough track with a clear round and just 6.8 time penalties, ending up in 10th place. That 20 broke a streak of 8 clear XC jumping rounds, and the only other penalties on her card were way back in 2021 in the Nations Cup event at Houghton Hall. Thats a clear rate of 18 from 20 FEI runs. Shes not always the quickest across the country Bramham was one of her best rounds at the level but Austins one heck of a quick rider, so well see whether hes got his pedal to the mettle today._______________________________________________________________________________________________Austins clear up to fence 12. Hes kicking on as he comes down the hill towards 13. He gets a great shot over that big log over the water. Hes motoring along looking very confident.5:24amWere hearing of more troubles at the skinny brush at 10B another drive by, this time for Carla Brunner and Brookwood Supersable. They carry 20 penalties as they continue on their way._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Michael Jung and Kilcandra Ocean Power* Score: 30.2 + 12 42.2 (33rd)XC Form: Former Olympic, World and European champion Michael Jung needs no introduction to eventing fans, or show jumping fans, or indeed dressage fans. Hes basically Super Michi Jung, here to give us a masterclass, once again. Hope I havent just jinxed him, but hes had the most cross country clears at Aachen of all the riders in the field, so well go with the stats over any kind of woo woo I may/may not be able to conjure up. Anyway this gelding has a rare 20 penalties on his last trip here in 2022, just one of two hes had in 26 FEI runs with Michael. Hes here off the back of a 4th place finish in the 4*-S at Luhmuhlen last month, where he added just 5.6 XC time penalties to his dressage of 27.1, and a 3rd place in the 4*-S at Wiesbaden, where he picked up 10.4 time. Will he put his 20 here last time to bed today? Never bet against Michi._______________________________________________________________________________________________We see Michi having to work hard through the water complex at 7AB he had to make that happen. He kicks on his way. Meanwhile, Carla has completed with 21.6 time and 20 jumping.5:19amThings are looking a little sticky in places for Morgane and Fixin de Conde. Theyre clear through to fence 15._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Carla Brunner and Brookwood Supersable* Score: 45.9 + 0 45.9 (41st)XC Form: Young Swiss eventer Carla brings fellow Aachen competitor Ian Cassellss former ride, 9-year-old mare Brookwood Supersable forward. They had a 20 on their last run in the 4*-L at Baborowko in Poland in May, where they ended up 6th. They were clear inside the time in the 4*-S at Lignires last season, and were clear round the 4*-S Nations Cup in Arville, but had a 20 in the Nations Cup event in Avenches. So a bit of a mixed bag of results for them. Theyve proved they can be clear and quick, but they can also have a green mistake, and Carla doesnt always have her foot on the accelerator. Lets see how they get on today._______________________________________________________________________________________________Brookwood Supersable is a bit hesitant over fence 4, but Carla gives him a pat and they continue on with their round. Theyre tidy through the water at 7AB. Meanwhile, Morgane is through the water at 18AB. Shes down on the clock at this point. They take the flag with them at 19B, but all looks OK. They come into the main arena and rattle the gate on the way into the water. They come through the keyhole and its big pats and a huge smile and wave from Morgane. 10.8 time for them.5:15amAndrew makes the open corners at 19ABC look relatively easy, but the clock turns red as he makes his way into the main arena hes carrying that 20 from fence 10B. No problems for them through the arena and they fly through the keyhole and over the finish line. 20 jumping, 16.4 time for them. Meanwhile, Kirsty is clear through to the triple rail at 12._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Morgane Euriat and Fixin de Conde* Score: 36.5 + 8 44.5 (40th)XC Form: Its a clean sweep in terms of XC jumping clears for Morgane and 9-year-old gelding Fixin de Conde from their 10 FEI competitions together, and theyre proving to be pretty speedy to boot. In their two previous runs at 4* (both short format), theyve kept time penalties to single figures. This is their first time competing outside France, so lets see how they take to this German track Bon chance Morgane!_______________________________________________________________________________________________Kirsty navigates her way past the driving obstacles between 13 and 14 as we see Morgane doing a great job of holding things together through the water at 7AB. Kirsty is really quick to get to the main arena and is absolutely flying. The clock turns red as they leave the water, they pop through the keyhole and cross the finish 5.6 time penalties for them. The first score in for the British, its not counting at the minute but is a decent score for them to fall back on if needs be.ENs coverage of CHIO Aachen in 2024 is brought to you with support from Deirdre Stocker Vaillancourt Real Estate, your prime choice for Aiken, SC property! 5:10amOh! Another drive by at 10B this time for Andrew Hoy. They just slipped past it. That momentum down the hill just seems to carry them along a bit too much. A shame for them._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Kirsty Chabert and Classic VI* Score: 34.3 + 9.2 43.5 (35th)XC Form: Betty has racked up three wins, two second places, two thirds, a fourth and a fifth at 4*-S, most recently taking 3rd place at Kronenberg this season, where she added just 3.2 XC time penalties to her dressage of 29.8. Last season, she won the 4*-S at Lisgarvan House, Ireland, after finishing on her dressage score of 26. Shes also a 5* runner-up (Luhmuhlen 22), so theres no questioning this mares experience or ability as she heads out onto the Aachen cross country for the third time. Kirstyll be hoping its third time lucky, as Aachen hasnt necessarily been this pairs pal in the past, with a 20 in each of their two previous runs. Lets hope they can put those mistakes well and truly behind them today. EquiRatings has this mare down as the fastest horse in the field today. Blink and you may well miss em._______________________________________________________________________________________________Andrew continues on after that 20 at fence 10B. He gives a bit of vocal encouragement over the hanging log over the river and they fly that. They manage the complex at 15ABCD really cleanly. Meanwhile, Kirstys at the first water and is quickly clear through there.5:07amJames is clear through the double of gates at 16AB hes looking very smooth and confident. Hes good on the clock as he skips through the water at 18AB. Oh, theyre brilliant through the corner combination at 19ABC total class. He flies into the main arena and makes absolutely nothing of the tricky fences in there. Theyre close on their time. Coming to the finish. They clear the last just 6 seconds over. Thats 2.4 time for them 38.4 overall. A great round from them and a great Aachen._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Andrew Hoy and Cadet de Beliard* Score: 35.1 + 8 43.1 (34th)XC Form: In 27 FEI competitions, Cadet de Beliard has just one XC jumping penalty on his record, which came back in 2021 when he was piloted by Frances Tom Carlisle. He jumped clear inside the time last season in the 4*-L at Strzegom with Andrew to finish 3rd. Most recently he was 5th in the 4*-S at Kronenberg in May, where he added 19.2 time penalties to his dressage of 31.5 and rolled two poles to add a further 8. Thats the most time hes ever had though hes generally inside or low single figures. One things for sure, he couldnt have a more experienced rider in the irons and hes well-used to going eventing in Europe, with the majority of his runs having taken place on the continent._______________________________________________________________________________________________News in for Christoph Wahler and DAccord FRH theyve been eliminated for missing fence 10B.5:03amCaroline and CBI Aldo seem to have settled into their round as they come to fence 14. Meanwhile, we have our first US combination on course_______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: James Alliston and Karma* Score: 36 + 0 36 (23rd)XC Form: Over from the US, James is sitting pretty on the best cross country horse in the field according to EquiRatings. The 10-year-old mare has just 9 FEI runs under her cinch, and ignoring the first one, shes got five finishes on her dressage on her record and six XC clears inside the time. The two occasions when she didnt make the time, she wasnt a million miles off. That all translates to three wins and two 2nds seriously, this mare is one to watch _______________________________________________________________________________________________We see James get off to a confident start and then go back to Caroline and CBI Aldo. Theyre through the double of gates at 16AB. The clock turns red as they come round to the water at AB, but with those early problems thats not surprising. Caroline comes very quietly up to the big open corner at 19A, really setting Aldo up. Theyre neat through there and then gallop on into the main arena. He leaves a leg on the gate into the water but Caroline sits tight and then pushes on to the finish line 151.2 is their overall score.5:01amSam and Ballyneety Rocketman are looking keen as we see them at the big combination at 15ABCD theyre flying thus far._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Caroline Powell and CBI Aldo* Score: 36.2 + 8 44.2 (39th)XC Form: Badminton hero Caroline Powell heads to Paris in the traveling reserve role with her newly minted 5* winner Greenacres Special Cavalier. Shes here with the 9-year-old gelding CBI Aldo, whos had a bit of a mixed bag of results thus far in his FEI career. He showed his inexperience at his first attempt at 5* in the spring, and Caroline sensibly put her hand up and walked him home. Before that, hed come 4th in the 4*-S at Oudkarspel in the Netherlands, where he added just 7.2 XC time to his dressage score across the competition. He was a fair bit slower round the 4*-S at Kronenberg this season, adding 17.2 time penalties that day. How will he go at Aachen? Lets see._______________________________________________________________________________________________Carolines showing as having had problems at fence 3 we didnt see it but the live leaderboard is saying theyve had 2 refusals at 3 and theres a flag question at 4. We see them through the water at 7AB, looking well enough. Meanwhile, Sams in the main arena and clear jumping. Hes over the time already and finishes with 13.2 time penalties. But overall that looks to have been a good round for them.5amWere seeing a couple of problems for Christoph and DAccord. They have a drive by at the skinny brush arrowhead at 10B and then pick up more penalties when they come back round. They continue on but theres another problem at the water at 18 DAccord stops at the hanging log in. Christoph brings him back round and they tentatively drop in and continue on. What a shame for them, and unusual for this horse I think. But they make their way into the main arena and Christoph will be trying to build DAccords confidence over the final couple of fences._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Sam Watson and Ballyneety Rocketman* Score: 40 + 4 44 (38th)XC Form: EquiRatings brainbox and World Championships medalist, Sam comes to Aachen with Ballyneety Rocketman fresh from a win in the 4*-L at Millstreet in May, where he added just 9.6 XC time to his dressage score across the competition. Hes been on hot form in both his FEI events this season, very nearly finishing on his dressage score in the 4*-S at Ballindenisk in his first run of the year, claiming 5th place. He had an uncharacteristic 20 in the 4*-L Nations Cup at Boekelo last year, but they were the only jumping penalties in his five runs of the season. We know Sams quick in terms of brain power and speed across the country and this gelding seems to be a good match. Even with a 20 at Bokelo he only had 9.2 time penalties. Blink and youll miss em!_______________________________________________________________________________________________Christoph and DAccord come through the finish the score has a bit of a question mark over it on the leaderboard, so Ill update once things are confirmed.4:54amPhilip is clear through to fence 16AB the double of gates. All good so far for them._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Christoph Wahler and dAccord FRH* Score: 31.2 + 12.8 44 (37th)XC Form: Fun fact dAccord has the same sire as Tom McEwens potential Olympic mount and Kentucky runner-up JL Dublin. He was top-10 on his 5* debut at Kentucky this year, arriving in the States off the back of a 2nd place in the 4*-S at Strzegom, where he added just 2.4 XC time penalties to his dressage of 32.8. He was clear inside the time in the 4*-L Nations Cup at Boekelo last season and finished on his dressage in the 4*-S at Luhmuhlen on his way to 2nd place. Hes on a streak of 9 XC clears you have to go back to Jardy in 2022 to find a jumping penalty and he was inside the time in 7 of those runs, adding just 2.4 time in the other two. Blink and youll miss em!_______________________________________________________________________________________________Philip takes the flag at the big open corner at 19A, but it looks to be OK. He splashes into the water in the main arena and is delighted when he flies through the finish. Hes pointing at Amansara. Great work from them. Clear with 9.6 time.4:50amArthur and Pumba have made their way to the double of gates at 16AB he taps the gate and theres a bit of a shake of the head, hell perhaps be very glad to see the finish flags today. He makes his way through the water at 18 and runs on into the arena towards home._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Philip Ryan and Amansara* Score: 38.2 + 12 50.2 (44th)XC Form: This mare has had some very good form since stepping up to 4* last season, jumping clear across the country in all but her first attempt at the level, with just an 11 penalties for activating a frangible device in the 4*-L at Strzegom in April upsetting the list of zeros. They were 4th in the 4*-S at Montelibretti at the end of last year, where they added just 2.4 time penalties to their dressage of 37.5. They were quick round the Nations Cup event there this spring too, adding just 3.6 XC time that day and finishing up 9th. So they can be clear, and they can be quick will the two come together here at Aachen today?_______________________________________________________________________________________________Meanwhile, Pumba rattles the fence into the water in the arena too, but theyre through there, over the last and through the finish 20 jumping, 18 time, and theres a missed flag in there also for a further 15 penalties.4:46am_______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Arthur Marx and Churchile* Score: 38.3 + 8 46.3 (42nd)XC Form: Arthurs in Aachen with family homebred Pumba, whose dam and grand-dam were competed by Arthurs dad. Fun fact as well as running his barn at home, Arthur works in a stationery shop each morning. This pair came here last year and had a bit of a tricky time out on course, adding 35 penalties (20 jumping, 15 for a missed flag) as well as 20.4 time. Generally though, XC jumping penalties have come at 5* for them, with 10 clears from 11 runs at 4*, six of them inside the time (including both long and short format). He had a tricky time at Badminton in the spring and will be looking to get a good clear under his girth here today, hopefully a quick one._______________________________________________________________________________________________Its a dramatic start for Arthur as Pumba sets off on his back legs. He sure looks keen this morning. They mark the start of the team competition. While Arthurs hanging on, Laras setting up for the hanging log into the water at 18A. They turn in the air over the house in the water and comes round to the big corner complex at 19ABC. They weave through there and then over the road towards the main arena. Shes looking pure class. Lara crosses the line with a huge smile on her face 6 seconds over. Oh no! Arthurs had a run out at 6C the narrow brush in the water. He kind of flew past there. He continues on though.4:43amDirk Schrade is coming to the water at 18AB now Casinos ears are pricked and he looks to be relishing his job here today. Hes a little down on the clock as he heads towards the main arena._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Lara de Liedekerke-Meier and Ducati dArville Score: 31 + 0 31 (10th)XC Form: Laras on great form having become Belgiums first ever 5* winner a few weeks ago at Luhmuhlen. She brings Ducati dArville back to Aachen after finishing 10th here last year, jumping clear XC and adding just 2.8 time. This gelding is a cross country machine! In 33 FEI competitions, theres nary a jumping penalty on his record not one or any zero. And hes speedy to boot. He was clear inside the time in the 4*-L Nations Cup final at Boekelo last season on his way to coming 2nd and hes only ever had time penalties clocking up into double figures twice once was here in 2022, and it 10.4. Hes had two 4*-S runs this season he was 5th at Kronenberg where he added 4.4 XC time and 2nd at Baborowko where had 1.6 XC time (and, incidentally, 1.6 SJ time also). This pair could very well be ones to watch _______________________________________________________________________________________________Dirk gets a clap from the home crowd as he comes into the arena. The clock turns red as he drops into the water and he flies through and round to the final fence and over the line 6.4 time for them. Meanwhile, Laras out on her second ride shes up at the hanging log at 14 and clear so far.4:40amDavid Doel is clear through to the water at 18, from what weve seen, this looks to have been a very smooth ride. Hes heading into the final stages of the course._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Dirk Schrade and Casino 80 Score: 32 + 0 32 (12th)XC Form: Dirks another one whos under scrutiny from the Olympic selectors this weekend, but this experienced eventers unlikely to let the pressure get to him having been a team gold medalist at London 2012 and the World Championships in Caen in 2014. Dirks had the ride on Casino 80 since 2020 and theyve had a busy season thus far after a very quiet 2023, with five FEI runs under their cinch already, including a 2nd place in the 4*-L at Marbach, where he added just 4.4 XC time to his dressage score of 28.8. He had 4.4 XC time in the 4*-S at Luhmuhlen also, to finish just outside the top-10. They do have a 20 on their card this year; that came at in the 4*-S at Strzegom in April, but theyve jumped clear in their three runs since. Casinos been here before, back in 2019 with previous rider Peter Thomsen; he was eliminated on the cross country that day. Fingers crossed that history doesnt in fact repeat itself._______________________________________________________________________________________________Dirk is clear through the combination at 11AB. But we go back to David and some problems in the main arena. He has a bit of a stumble up the step out of the water and has to circle before the B element a really late 20 penalties for them. They cross the line 16 time for them. Thats a real shame, but the geldings only a 9-year-old so will have gained an awful lot from his trip round here today.4:35amCalvin is absolutely flying for sure this is the quickest weve seen so far._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: David Doel and Kenzo Power B Score: 39.1 + 8 47.1 (43rd)XC Form: Eventer/ice-cream man and all-around nice guy, Davids here as an individual for Britain with 9-year-old gelding Kenzo Power B. Known for enjoying the European circuit, Davids focused on events primarily in the Netherlands with this guy, since taking on the ride from Belgian rider Geert Adriaensen in 2022, with a trip to Arville last season and runs at Chatsworth and Ballindenisk sprinkled in, you know, for a bit of variety. The gelding hasnt had a single XC jumping penalty in 14 FEI competitions, although the time penalties have crept up slightly since making the step up to 4* this season he added 13.2 last time out, on his way to 4th in the 4*-S at Maarsbergen last month. Their European campaign continues here today how will he find eventing in Germany?_______________________________________________________________________________________________Davids coming down to the Rolex water at 7AB and gets a very good line through there. Very neat, if a little steady. Someone whos not steady is Calvin. Hes over the water at 18AB and is now at the big corner complex at 19. Hes looking likely to be there or thereabouts on the time. He flies into the main arena and takes on the water complex in there. Hes through the keyhole and is inside the time! 30.9 into second for them.ENs coverage of CHIO Aachen in 2024 is brought to you with support from Deirdre Stocker Vaillancourt Real Estate, your prime choice for Aiken, SC property! 4:28amUnfortunately we havent seen much of Julias round. Like, at all, really. We see her in the main arena coming home. Shes over the finish line and shes left the door ajar 6.4 time penalties for them shes in the lead on 30.3. Will she hang on?_______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Lea Siegl and Van Helsing P Score: 28.6 + 4 32.6 (15th)XC Form: The youngest eventer at the last edition of the Olympics (where she was 15th individually), Lea finished top-20 at Aachen in 2022 with her Tokyo ride DSP Fighting Line. Shes headed to Paris in a couple of weeks, but before that, shes here at Aachen with Van Helsing P, her European Championships ride and the winner of the 4*-S Nations Cup at Strzegom last season. They had a 20 at Le Pin au Haras and retired on course, but that looks to be a bit of a blip in an otherwise generally clean record. They were 9th in the Nations Cup in Avenches this season, where they jumped clear and added 22.4 time penalties, but no one made the time that day. This gelding can be quick he finished on his dressage on his way to winning the 4*-L at Montelibretti last year, and added just 3.2 time faults when he won at Strzegom. If things come together for them, this could be a combination to watch _______________________________________________________________________________________________Leas clear to the water at 18, but we havent really seen anything of her round. We are, however, seeing plenty of Calvin Heres a bit about him:_______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Calvin Bckmann and The Phantom of the Opera Score: 30.9 + 0 30.9 (9th)XC Form: This 23-year-old (Calvin, not Phantom, who, incidentally, is the former ride of fellow Aachen competitor and compatriot Sandra Auffarth) has been making a bit of a name for himself since becoming the new kid on the block of the senior ranks, and is one of the riders the Olympic selectors are keeping a close eye on with regard to designated alternates for Paris. They had a green 20 at Kentucky on their 5* debut, but dont let that fool you into thinking theyre inexperienced at 4*, because theyre not. Theyve had 9 FEI runs together at the level over the last three years, including three 4*-S Nations Cup appearances coming 9th in the at Strzegom this season where they added just 4.8 time penalties in the cross country, 10th at Jardy where they added 2.4 time, and 7th at Arville where they went clear inside the time. Theyre exciting up-and-comers in the world of German eventing, thats for sure._______________________________________________________________________________________________Calvin and Phantom are clear through the combination at 10AB and then quickly through 11AB. Hes got his foot down today, thats for sure. Meanwhile, we finally see Lea crossing the finish line 5.2 time for her, putting her in 3rd as things stand and on track for a top-10 finish. 4:21amLauren comes through the finish 20 seconds over the time for 11.6 penalties. A good solid round for them._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Peter T. Flarup and Impressed Score: 39.6 + 4 43.6 (36th)XC Form: Another rider headed to Paris this month, Danish Olympian and World Championships rider Peter has brought this 11-year-old gelding up through the levels, and spent last season building up a fair bit of experience at the 4*-S level. In 18 FEI competitions, this gelding has just one jumping and one flag penalty on his record. He came out this season and took 3rd in the 4*-S at Kristianstad, in season, jumping clear across the country and adding 8.8 time. Generally, time has been where hes added, with penalties usually in the mid-teens and into the twenties; he tends to get closer to the time at long format. He was clear jumping with 21.2 time last time out at Wiesbaden in May. How will he find Aachen?_______________________________________________________________________________________________Unfortunately Peter has trouble at the Rolex water at 7AB he runs past the angled brush shoulder in the water. Theres also a flag question at 3 for them. A couple of questions for them on the live leaderboard Ill update once things are confirmed._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Julia Krajewski and Nickel 21 Score: 23.9 + 0 23.9 (2nd)XC Form: Reigning Olympic Champion Julia is realistically, according to the Block shes sitting in on the nominated list vying for an alternate spot for Paris, following the retirement of Tokyo mount Amande de BNeville, whos busy at home growing a mini Mandy. Although, shes heading out onto cross country as clubhouse leader Aachen is hers to lose. Nickel may not have the same kind of experience as Julias mare, but man, does he make up for it in pure talent, and EquiRatings have him down as second favorite for the win; hes ranked as the second best cross country horse in the field. Since the beginning of the 2023 season, hes racked up two wins, two 2nds, two 3rds, and a 5th, 7th and two 9th place finishes. Thats in 11 FEI runs. Yup, count em up. The single anomaly is the 4*-L Nations Cup event at Boekelo last season, when he was leading going into cross country and then was one of many that day to have a trip at the water, giving Julia an early bath (she wasnt the only one). Hes got just that fall and one other on his record, and a whole bunch of clear XC jumping 20 clear rounds to be precise. And yup, you guessed it, hes quick too. The most time penalties hes ever had is 10; he had 3.2 in the 4*-S at Luhmuhlen this season, where an expensive pole in the show jumping dropped them down to 9th. If youre looking for clear and quick today, these guys are ones to watch _______________________________________________________________________________________________Peters continuing on his way to the narrow gate at 16. Julia is out on course but were with Peter for now. Peters at the penultimate water complex at 19ABC but the clocks already turned red for them. Theyre carrying that refusal and there is a 15 for the flag at 3 showing up for them too. He comes into the main arena and is almost there now. He comes through the water combination in there and then takes the keyhole. They complete on 136.4:18amYou can hear the home support for Anna as she makes her way round the track. Shes up at the water at 18AB and drops in over the log and then makes a smooth turn to the house in the water. She weaves through the corners complex at 19 and then comes into the stadium towards the finish. They canter on through the water and the clock turns red. Through the keyhole finale and over the finish line. 2.8 time for them._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Lauren Innes and Global Fision M* Score: 53.2 + 4 57.2 (45th)XC Form: In real life, Laurens a full-time accountant and Flipper spends his days in the field while Laurens at work. If youre thinking youre pretty sure Laurens British, youre not wrong she swapped to her dads nationality last season to compete under the Kiwi flag. Flipper is a true eventer, in it wholeheartedly for the cross country. He gets hot hot hot in the dressage, as you can see from his score, but get him in the start box and hes 100% focused on the job at hand. He jumped clear round Badminton in the spring (a feat hes achieved three times, as well as producing a clear round at Burghley) and was clear in the 4*-S at Burnham Market in his season opener. In 39 FEI runs, hes got XC jumping penalties on his card on just 5 occasions. Hes not going to be the quickest we see today, but the chances are he wont be the slowest either. Lets enjoy watching this true partnership in action._______________________________________________________________________________________________Laurens already at fence 13 before we see anything of her, sorry. They take on the hanging log at 14 and are clear to this point. Flipper has a little skip as he comes up the bank after the ditch, but hes smooth over the wide brush at D and they make their way to the double of gates at 16. Flippers very neat over those two very upright fences and looks to be enjoying his time out on cross country far more than he likes dressage. They make an easy turn in the water at 18 and make their way into the stadium.4:15amSandras now at the combination at 15ABCD she gives the first part a rattle but no trouble there. Oh, shes pulling up at the same spot Christoph did German team orders perhaps?_______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Anna Siemer and FRH Butts Avondale Score: 36.4 + 4 40.4 (29th)XC Form: As are all the German riders here at Aachen, Annas on the Olympic selectors radar, likely for a slot as an alternate reserve. This is her fourth trip to Aachen with FRH Butts Avondale; last year they jumped clear and added 4.4 XC time, finishing up in 16th due to an expensive couple of poles in the show jumping. They were clear inside the time in the 4*-S at Luhmuhlen last month and finished on their dressage on their way to a win in the 4*-L at Sopot in Poland in May. They had a 20 in the Nations Cup 4*-L at Boekelo last season and another one earlier in the season; they retired out on course here at Aachen in 2022. By far and large though, this is a gelding who should jump clear across the country, with those errors blips in an otherwise clean record. When he has them, time penalties are in single figures. We should be looking at a solid round from this experienced pairing, lets see if the form holds up._______________________________________________________________________________________________Annas actually been on course for a little while and is at the triple rail at fence 12. She looks like shes feeling a bit more competitive than the other German riders thus far. They come down to the hanging log at 14 and make nothing of that. And now theyre at the bank complex at 15ABCD she makes light work of that and kicks on. 4:10amChristoph and Carjatan make nothing of the water ditch at 13 its basically a river running under a hanging log. They cruise through the big combination at 15 and then Christoph decides to put his hand up Paris very much on his mind._______________________________________________________________________________________________New starter on course: Sandra Auffarth and Viamant du Matz Score: 29.9 + 0 29.9 (7th)XC Form: Hoping to secure her spot on the the flight to Paris, former World Champion and three-time Olympic medalist Sandra brings 2022 Aachen winner and, according to EquiRatings, one of the highest rated horses in the field Viamant du Matz for another spin round. They picked up too many time penalties to be competitive here last year 17.2 but have been quick enough in their two 4*-S runs this season, adding 7.2 XC time at Strzegom and 5.6 for 6th place at Luhmuhlen for 5th. You have to go all the way back to Tokyo to find a XC jumping penalty on their record, and then here in 2019 to find another. Impressively, from 54 FEI competitions, this gelding has just two non-completions, and has had XC jumping penalties on just 6 occasions. Theyre on a streak of 15 clear cross country rounds and are you guessed it ones to watch _______________________________________________________________________________________________Sandra and Viamant seem to be having some troubles at 10AB an early problem for them. They fly the brush at the top of the hill but then have a drive by at the skinny brush. They come back round and carry on, but thatll take them out of contention here today. Thats a blow for her but shell put it behind her as she continues on round this track.4:05am_______________________________________________________________________________________________Second horse on course: Christoph Wahler and Carjatan S Score: 28 + 0 28 (3rd)XC Form: Currently looking likely for an elusive spot on the German Olympic team (final decisions will be made following the weekends competition), Christophs no stranger to the championships podium with his compatriots, having won team gold at Pratoni. Hes here with last years Aachen 4th place finisher and, according to EquiRatings, amongst the highest rated horses in the field Carjatan S, who added just 1.6 XC time to his dressage of 33.6 twelve months ago. This impressive gelding has been runner-up at Luhmuhlen 5* (in 2021, where he finished on his dressage of 32.1), 4th at the European Championships (2023) and winner of the 4*-S at Baborowko, Poland two years running, meaning he comes here straight off the back of a win there, where he clocked up just 3.6 XC time (and 0.4 in the show jumping) to finish on 32.7; last year he finished on his dressage of 27.9. He had a bit of a blip at Marbach in the 4*-S in May, activating two frangible devices for 22 penalties, one of only five occasions where hes had a mistake on course from 47 FEI competitions. Ones to watch methinks _______________________________________________________________________________________________Christoph doesnt look to have gone out flying, probably with Paris on his mind. Theres a question mark for a flag at fence 3, well have to wait on confirmation for that. They drop down into the water at 6ABC and Christoph makes a tight line between the B and C elements. They gallop off towards the solid table at 8. Were hearing that the flag penalties have been given, but that may be reviewed further. They make the tricky combination at 10AB look very simple and then loop back to the combination at 11AB that comes up very quickly. All very straightforward so far for them.4amSo far so good for Lara and Hermione. Shes making this tricky track look really quite easy. Theyre up at the double of gates at 16AB. They come up to a rustic upright gate and then comes down the decline to another rustic gate. Shes spot on the time. They come to the second water at 18 and make a lovely sweeping line to the house in the water at B. They make nothing of the corners combination at 19 a big open corner at A, over a brush topped box and then onto another open corner at C. No problems. Theyre similarly smooth through the water in the main arena and then over the last. 3.6 time for them what a great first round. Thatll give the others to go a whole bunch of confidence.3:58am_______________________________________________________________________________________________First out on course: Lara de Liedekeike-Meier and Hermione dArville Score: 34.1 + 0 34.1 (19th)XC Form: Since the beginning of the 2023 season, this mare has had XC jumping penalties twice in 10 runs and has jumped clear in all of her four runs this season. When shes clear, shes quick shes been inside the time at long format, finishing 3rd at Montelibretti last year, and generally keeps penalties to single figures at short format. She was 7th in the 4*-S at Luhmuhlen last year, where she jumped a speedy clear with just 3.2 time penalties, and followed that up with a clear jumping and 2.8 time at the Nations Cup leg in Jardy. She had 4.4 time in her most recent run in the 4*-S at Baborowko where she finished 6th. Laras on a high after her Luhmuhlen 5* win will that carry her clear and quick round the track today? Well soon see!_______________________________________________________________________________________________And theyre off over the first and getting the competition at Aachen started. They fly the hay cart at fence 2 and then take the solid corner at 3 riders get to choose to go right or left there. The first water comes at 6ABC theyre over the skinny brush roll top and then over the bridge into the water. The narrow brush in the water is no bother for them, its a tricky line through there but Lara and Hermione make absolutely nothing of it. Thatll have given Lara confidence at the start of this course. Theyre just as good through the tricky combination at 10AB and come round to the wide brush and angled log at 11AB. Oh no, Hermiones lost a shoe we see it fly off. Laras aware though. Lets hope that it doesnt affect them.ENs coverage of CHIO Aachen in 2024 is brought to you with support from Deirdre Stocker Vaillancourt Real Estate, your prime choice for Aiken, SC property!