Canada:
Despite the loss of the ten-time Olympian Ian Miller, the Canadian team will be boosted with the likes of former Olympic champion Eric Lamaze leading the charge. Eric, who took a break from the sport following the tragic loss of his wonderful partner Hickstead in 2011, has returned to the top level with vengeance and will be heading for his third Olympics with Fine Lady 5.
The former Ben Maher ride Tripple X, who was part of the gold medal-winning team in London, has struck up a solid partnership with Tiffany Foster – a former pupil of Lamaze.
Sweden:
Swedish show jumping has long been represented by the likes of Rolf-Goran Bengtsson, who won silver at the 2008 Beijjing Olympics and the 2011 European title in Madrid on the now retired Ninja La Silla.
Rolf, arguably one of the finest riders to grace the show jumping arena with his quiet hands and coolness under pressure, will ride the 12-year-old mare Unita ASK who has been placed in several Grand Prix this season including the Global Champions Tour leg in Madrid.
Joining the former European champion will be the experienced trio of Malin Baryard-Johnsson with Cue Channa 42, London 2012 team member Henrik von Eckermann riding Yjamila and Peder Fredericson and All In.
The home team:
Brazilian show jumping has enjoyed tremendous publicity and success thanks to the likes of Nelson and Rodrigo Pessoa in recent times. The team, on home soil, can certainly rise to the occasion and have a selection of top class riders and horses to choose from, including Rodrigo.
Predictions:
Team Medals:
· Gold – Germany
· Silver – Netherlands
· Bronze – France
Individual Medals:
· Gold – Jeroen Dubbeldam and Zenith (NED)
· Silver – Nick Skelton and Big Star (GBR)
· Bronze – Ludger Beerbaum and Chiara (GER)
Timetable:
– 12 August – horse inspection
– 13 August – training session
– 14 August – first individual qualifier
– 16 August – team first round
– 17 August – team second round and presentation of team medals
– 18 August – second horse inspection
– 19 August – individual competition and presentation of individual medals