Allison Springer: age 35, Marshall, Va.

Arthur: ch. g., 17 hands, 11 years, U.S.-bred Irish Thoroughbred (Brandenburg’s Windstar—Like Quick), owned by rider and William and Carolyn Springer, Marshall, Va.

This pair finished 13th at Rolex Kentucky in 2008 and 14th here last year. Last fall, they placed 22nd at the Blenheim Palace CCI*** (England). This spring, they placed fifth in the Red Hills CIC***-W (Fla.), second in The Fork CIC*** (N.C.) and fourth in an advanced division at Southern Pines (N.C.).

Jimmy’s Prediction: Arthur is the Rodney Dangerfield of the horse world. He doesn’t get the respect that he deserves, and I don’t understand that. At the same time, this pair has shown a distressing tendency to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. I’ve been waiting for Allison to have a “breakout” season ever since they first appeared at Rolex. I’m still waiting, but I’m no longer waiting patiently. A top 10 finish is waiting for them if they go the way I know they can go.

2010 Rolex Kentucky Preview Roster