Stamford, England—Sept. 4

Australia’s Christopher Burton, one of the most talented riders to hit the eventing circuit in the last few years, emerged victorious on Nobilis 18 at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, even if he did live a little dangerously in the closing stages of the competition.

Stamford, England—Sept. 3

Christopher Burton and Nobilis 18 were pure class at the end of a challenging cross-country day at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, finishing just 8 seconds over the optimum time of 11 minutes 11 seconds—and they now have two fences in hand to win tomorrow.

Burton had to wait until nearly the end of the day and admitted to nerves. 

“Sitting watching in the riders’ tent didn’t help,” he confessed. “But I’m delighted now; the horse gave me a great feel.”

Stamford, England—Sept. 2

 The stylish Christopher Burton is on course to win his first CCI**** on British soil after storming into the lead at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials CCI**** with a stunning dressage test on the Nobilis 18.

Australia’s Burton, who also led the dressage at the Rio Olympic Games last month, eventually finishing fifth individually and with a team bronze medal, wowed the judges with his graceful riding and the Hanoverian gelding’s luxurious paces and balanced outline, scoring 30.2 penalties.

The cross-country course at the Land Rover Burghley CCI**** is arguably the world’s most formidable track. Set by Mark Phillips, this year’s course includes 31 numbered obstacles with 48 jumping efforts in total. Take a tour of the fences riders will tackle tomorrow morning in Stamford, England.

All photos by Libby Law Photography.

1. Olympic Legacy