British riders are on top the world as countdown begins for Hickstead and the World Equestrian Games
Britain’s team of Di Lampard (Abbervail Dream), James Davenport (Enjoleuse De L’Eaugrenee), Andrew Davies (Limbo) and William Funnell (Cortaflex Amber Du Montois) strode to an impressive Samsung Nations Cup victory in Lummen, Belgium, beating France by eight faults.
William Funnell (pictured) jumped one of only four double clears in the competition over a course described as “big, but straightforward”.
Britain shared the lead at the halfway stage and Di led off with four faults at the final fence, a viaduct wall. Andrew and Limbo also made oneerror in the middle of the combination, while William, who had one fence in hand of France and Germany, achieved a tremendous clear.
“The team spirit was tremendous,” said chef d’equipe Derek Ricketts, “especially as none of the riders particularly wanted to come here so close to Hickstead.”
Di Lampard put up by far the best British performance in the grand prix, finishing sixth on Abbervail Dream, which will have boosted her chance of being included in the WEG SJ team.
William Funnell’s double clear will also have put him under consideration for Britain’s WEG team, which will be announced on the final day of the Royal International Horse Show (28 July). Six riders will be included, with two to be named later as reserves.
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