Excitement was high among local Greenwich children on Tuesday 5 July, after they got the chance to witness world class Equestrian in the impressive surroundings of Greenwich Park on the second day of the Olympic Equestrian test event.
The 19 jump, 2.8km long Cross-Country course at the Greenwich Park Eventing Invitational proved to be a hit with the 39 competitors and the 5,000-strong crowd which was largely made up of local children. This is the first time horses have competitively jumped a Cross-Country course in Greenwich Park.
Images of the Cross-Country competition can be downloaded here.
British rider Pippa Funnell said of the day: "Having the children here, and their evident excitement, gives you such a buzz. One little kid, when she asked for my autograph, said: ‘Are you famous?’ I think if I was asked what the most special moment of the day was, for me that would be it."
William Fox-Pitt (GBR) was also impressed by the atmosphere: "It was great fun, there’s a real buzz out there. Lots of cheering and lots of children who seem to be loving it. And the course rode well."
After day two British rider Piggy French continues to lead the competition with Sara Algotsson Ostholt (SWE) in second place and Michael Jung (GER) in third.
In Equestrian Cross-Country, each horse and rider combination is given penalty points for jumping errors and time faults, which are then added to any penalty points awarded during the dressage phase.
Following the thrilling cross country event crowds witnessed a further dress rehearsal, this time a preview of the Paralympic Equestrian. Horse and rider combinations each performed one of the Dressage tests that will feature at the Paralympic Games.
The Equestrian competition will finish on 6 July, with the final discipline, Jumping, taking place in the main arena.
For more information, contact:betony.garner@london2012.com
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