Admittedly, the differences are minimal. But in a competition of this level, isn’t the main thing to make an impression on your opponents? At 26, Bubby Upton outdid his compatriots Tom McEwen and Oliver Townend, who ultimately tied for second place after the dressage test. This was a logical result for the British team, as they had the largest number of riders competing. The results were mixed for the French, with Astier Nicolas and Benjamin Massié also tied for 21st place this evening. Next up: the cross-country event, scheduled to start at 12 noon tomorrow, Saturday 25 October.
Cannavaro, Ballaghmore Class. Two eighteen-year-old horses, among the most experienced on the circuit, currently occupy two of the top three places. This proves that eventing riders take great care to preserve their horses’ health in order to ensure they enjoy a long career at the highest level. Sixth last year here at the 5 Etoiles de Pau, Cannavaro and Bubby Upton have already improved their dressage score (25.6 points compared to 33 points in 2024). This bodes well on the eve of the cross-country, a test that the Dutch stallion particularly enjoys.
The duo is followed by two top riders, Tom McEwen and Oliver Townend, ranked 4th and 8th in the world respectively. Tied in dressage, they are also serious contenders for the podium. The former rides Brookfield Quality, with whom he finished 3rd in last year’s event. The latter has chosen his trusty 18-year-old Ballaghmore Class, who has an impressive track record. Winner of the CCI5*-L in Elkton (USA), Lexington (USA) and the legendary Burghley (GBR), he is currently one of the best horses in the world. Will he add Pau to his list of achievements? It will certainly take a good dose of talent and luck to complete the 30 obstacles that make up the course designed by Pierre Michelet, the iconic course designer of the 5 Etoiles de Pau. Two French riders are lying in wait less than 6 points behind the leader: Astier Nicolas (winner in 2015) and Benjamin Massié, both in 21st place. The latter could have done better if he hadn’t missed his flying changes, an exercise that his horse Filao de Perle usually performs perfectly.
Spectators are invited to attend tomorrow at 10 a.m. for the Pony Derby, before the cross-country event begins at 12 noon.
Watch the event live on https://tv.event-pau.fr/
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