William Whitaker jumps clear on day one of European Jumping Championships
Wednesday 23 August 2017
The first day of the jumping competition at the Longines FEI European Championships got underway this morning, with the first qualifying competition for both individuals and team.
William Whitaker riding Ludwig Criel’s Utamaro d Ecaussines, produced a superb clear round earlier this morning, completing in 85.81 seconds, which sees them sitting in 39th place on the scoreboard at the end of day one.
“It’s a good start,” said William. “To be honest, my horse couldn’t have jumped any better, he gave me everything in there today, and all-in-all I’m very happy. He’s a brilliant horse and has been a joy to deal with.”
Commenting on the course he added: “It’s challenging but fair for the first day. We’ve seen some good horses doing some uncharacteristic things. We [William and Michael] walked the course together and discussed the plan earlier.”
Unfortunately before the first round of competition, Michael was warming up with Viking, owned by Melissa Braybrooke, and felt that the horse didn't give the same feeling over the fences as he usually does, and the decision was made to withdraw him from the competition.
Tomorrow sees the first round of the team competition, and the second round of the individual qualifier.
The British senior teams are supported by the BEF’s UK Sport National Lottery funded World Class Programme.
