Gemma Stevens has withdrawn her horse Chilli King from the Mars Badminton Horse Trials just before the first horse inspection. She will compete only on Chilli Knight this week. Several other riders also pulled out in the final days leading up to the event.
Gemma Stevens announced the withdrawal of the 11-year-old Chilli King on May 6. The five-star debutant showed signs of not feeling right during a morning ride, prompting the decision despite no serious injury. Stevens said she was gutted but unwilling to risk the horse at such a demanding level. She plans to aim the horse for Burghley later in the year instead.