Italian rider Stefano Brecciaroli swept into a commanding lead with Apollo VD Wendi Kurt Hoeve on a score of 36.8.

It was all change at the top of the leaderboard this morning at the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials. Italian rider Stefano Brecciaroli swept into a commanding lead with Apollo VD Wendi Kurt Hoeve on a score of 36.8. His test, which included a raft of nines, and the competition’s first 10, showed quality work that combined power, accuracy and expression.“He was beautiful to ride. He did everything I asked and felt very good,” said Stefano. “I was a bit worried about the sudden change in the weather [this morning’s conditions were wet and windy], but this is England and it is to be expected! It didn’t seem to affect him.”Germany’s Sandra Auffarth and Opgun Louvo slotted into second place on a score of 41.3. They suffered the heaviest of this morning’s showers and a misunderstanding in the rein-back spoiled an otherwise punchy and accurate test.Yesterday’s leader, Christopher Burton and Holstein Park Leilani occupy third spot.