At the Military Boekelo event, Laura Collett, typically known for competing with Dacapo, is making a strong impression with her new mount, Count Onyx. Despite Dacapo being sidelined due to selection constraints, Count Onyx has quickly proven his potential, delivering a personal best dressage score of 26.6 and taking the lead. Laura is optimistic about their partnership, viewing this year as an intense learning curve and looking forward to further development in the future. Close behind are Jesse Campbell and Speedwell, who achieved a personal best of 27.1, continuing the legacy of Speedwell’s late rider Georgie Campbell and building a trusting new partnership.

Other notable performances include Ireland’s Padraig McCarthy and MGH Zabaione, who posted a strong 27.4, marking the horse’s first sub-30 four-star score and positioning them well as serious contenders. France’s Alexis Goury and Coloree de Poteau Z, a new but promising combination, also impressed with a score of 28, while Belgium’s Lara de Liedekerke-Meier is rebuilding confidence with Kiarado d’Arville after a challenging season. The Nations Cup remains tightly contested, with Great Britain narrowly leading Ireland and New Zealand, setting the stage for an intense cross-country phase on a technical course designed by Aidrian Ditcham.