Monthly diary — April 2014

Lucinda Green

Read all about what legendary eventer Lucinda Green has been up to this month.

Cry Freedom and I had pleasing runs at both Gatcombe and Belton OI, coming 12th and 4th respectively. Gatcombe was muddy so I rode CF more forwards in the showjumping - as a result I wasn’t over-controlling and he jumped better. Two down there and only one down at Belton constitutes a record for us. At Belton he then whizzed the cross-country to be the only one inside the time. Just delighted… We’ll now aim for Chatsworth Advanced, but as my sister, CF’s owner, is unwell he’s unfinanced this year so may soon retire.

Next I watched Lissa with Raffa and Daisy at Goring Heath Pre Novice. Raffa has developed a love for crosscountry following our hunting but Daisy still needs confidence (I couldn’t hunt both). So Lissa put a team together for their first foray into team chasing, so an experienced horse would lead and Daisy could follow. As they set off chaos ensued. The lead horse refused, bumped Daisy who bumped the third combination. Daisy then manned up and trailblazed the course, over some big hedges too. Somehow, despite the unscheduled antics, they won. It was very funny and made a wonderful escape from the intensity of eventing.

Then I previewed Badminton’s cross-country for Horse & Hound. New designer Giuseppe della Chiesa (creator of the excellent Rome '07 European Championship track) has worked closely with director and previous designer Hugh Thomas to create a magnificent, clever course. Apparently the only course to receive more investment was for 1988 Seoul Olympics. Giuseppe has reignited Badminton’s old character and opened out the track. Competitors will need to be bold and able to run through their gears quickly, rebalance and refocus. It will be fascinating watching.”

Don't forget to visit the archive to find out what Lucinda and Lissa have been up to in past months.
Click here to visit Lucinda's archive

Lucinda Green Signature