Opening the Four-in-hand European Championship event were 12 of the 39 athletes. Staking their early claims to podium places were Germany’s Michael Brauchle who tallied 50.91 and fellow marathon specialist Koos de Ronde (NED) who smiled broadly at the end of his smooth test to finish in 2nd overnight on 52.91 – both decent performances for team and individual placings. Driving his bay Lusitanos, France’s Benjamin Aillaud is currently in 3rd with 56.84.

Afterwards Michael said, “I was really happy with my horses who made a good job of the test today. The atmosphere was good and not too exciting for the horses, and it was great to have Boyd helping me as team trainer.” – Michael Brauchle (GER)

Day two of Dressage for the Four-in-hands starts at 10.00 local time when the favourites Ijsbrand and Bram Chardon will be up against German Dressage supremos, Mareike Harm and Anna Sandmann. No doubt the order will change throughout the day so tune into FEI TV for all the live action and commentary from Exloo.

Friday – August 25

10:00 – Four-in-Hand Dressage Part 2

Saturday – August 26

10:00 – Marathon

Sunday – August 27

10:00 – Cones
4:30 – Award Ceremony