The Badminton Horse Trials provided the ideal arena for horses and riders to showcase their skills and prove their potential for the Olympic teams. It also highlighted that Michael Jung and his horse La Biosthetique are the pair to beat if you have your eyes set on a medal.

Michael Jung was the first ever German competitor to win at the Badminton Horse Trials and he did it in style. Going into the showjumping final, he had a notable lead on his rivals and he dashed all hopes of someone else steeling the limelight by clearing all thirteen obstacles.

This horse and rider combination has previously enjoyed many successes and back in 2012, they held the Olympic, World and European Championship titles. Could we see a repeat of such an outstanding performance this year?

Michael’s team mate Andreas Ostholt and his horse So Is Et took second place at the Badminton Horse Trials, so it was a day of celebrations for Germany. There was also considerable elation from British competitor Gemma Tattersall and her horse Arctic Soul who finished third, also clearing all the obstacles in the final.

Waiting for a July Announcement on Rio

The final selection for the British Olympic Eventing team won’t be announced until July, but Gemma’s performance has certainly put her in the spotlight at a crucial time. The selection committee certainly have a tough job, as there are a number of strong contenders who could be heading to Rio to represent the country in equestrian events.

Other hopefuls include Zara Tindall and High Kingdom, Izzy Taylor and Allercomb Ellie, Francis Whittington and Hasty Imp, Kristina Cook and Star Witness, Ben Way and Galley Light, as well as the 2015 Badminton winner William Fox Pitt. We’ll have to wait until the July announcement to find out who has made the grade.

The anticipation of such an event can be overwhelming, but all efforts now need to focus on ensuring that the riders and horses are in optimum condition. As the only Olympic sport to feature animals, the equestrian events certainly involve unique preparations.

aWhen we watch international equestrian events on the television, we don’t take into consideration the effort, planning and preparation it takes to transport all the horses in a safe manner which doesn’t compromise their health. When the final selections are made, 300 horses will be travelling from around the world to stable facilities in Rio.

Like us, the horses have to adapt to a new time zone, along with changes in the weather, conditions and routine that occur when you travel somewhere new. The support of experienced equine vets, handlers and trainers is vital in the bid to provide the necessary care that helps the horses to adapt.

You and your horse may not be heading to Rio, but if you are competing in national and international events for the first time, an equine vet can provide pre-event checks and advice to help your horse to arrive in top form. If you are looking for an experienced, reliable equine vets, Hertfordshire based Farr and Pursey can assist. We are passionate about horses and effective horse care.