Two more competitors have pulled out of the Mars Badminton Horse Trials ahead of the cross-country phase.
Irish rider Georgie Goss withdrew her 16-year-old mare Feloupe after finishing equal 15th in the dressage with a score of 30.8. Goss said the lack of expected rain prompted the decision to save the experienced horse for later targets this season, describing her as a true professional who loves the challenge but prioritising her wellbeing above all else.
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Sarah Bullimore and her home-bred gelding Corimiro delivered a clear round inside the optimum time to take the lead at the Mars Badminton Horse Trials cross-country phase on 9 May 2026. Holly Richardson and Ballyneety Silver Service were the first pair to complete the course fault-free and inside the 11min 30sec target. Several top riders incurred penalties or suffered falls, reshaping the leaderboard.
Three additional riders have withdrawn from the Mars Badminton Horse Trials ahead of the event scheduled for 6-10 May in Gloucestershire. The latest pullouts include two Irish competitors and a US rider. Competitors are beginning to arrive at the park for the competition.
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Two horses faced scrutiny during the opening trot-up for the Mars Badminton Horse Trials on May 6 but both passed inspection after re-presentation. All 61 entries advanced to dressage as a result. The event marks the start of the five-star competition in Gloucestershire.
The Mars Badminton Horse Trials has received 80 entries for its event scheduled for 6-10 May, marking no waiting list for the first time since 2023. This follows the cancellation of Mars Maryland 5 Star and comes amid discussions on the five-star level of eventing. H&H eventing editor Pippa Roome assesses whether the lower numbers signal concern.
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American rider Boyd Martin has pulled out of next month's Mars Badminton Horse Trials with his horse Miks Master C after it came up sore at a recent event. The 14-year-old gelding owned by OHP Hammertime Partners had been a podium contender. British pairs Selina Milnes on Cooley Snapchat and Harry Mutch on Shanbeg Cooley have also withdrawn.
Twenty-nine horses passed the first trot-up at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event on April 22, marking the start of the five-star competition in Kentucky. No horses were referred to the holding box despite minor spooks from two entries. The cross-country course, designed by Derek di Grazia, features 28 fences over 6312 meters with an optimum time of 11 minutes 5 seconds.
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Riders showcased a range of stylish ensembles during the first trot-up inspection at the Mars Badminton Horse Trials on 6 May. The event combined veterinary checks for the horses with a display of fashion choices from competitors. Several riders received attention for their distinctive looks as they prepared for the five-star competition.