Thursday, 05 August 2021
Ahead of Friday’s Tokyo Olympic Equestrian Jumping team event at the Equestrian Park at Bajikoen, Team GB has made a pre-competition change in accordance with the FEI Regulations for Equestrian Events at the Olympic Games (article 609). Harry Charles, riding his own and Ann Thompson’s Romeo 88, will now join Ben Maher with Charlotte Rossetter, Pamela Wright and his own Explosion W, and Holly Smith and Denver, owned by Ian Dowie, who make their Olympic debut, in the team line-up.
Jefferson, owned by Lady Pauline Harris and Lady Pauline Kirkham and ridden by Scott Brash, will not compete because Jefferson sustained a minor strain while jumping the individual final.
Equestrian Team Leader Richard Waygood commented: “In consultation with Scott, his valued owners and our team vet, we’ve decided it’s in the horse’s best interests to withdraw from the competition as a preventative measure to avoid a more serious injury. While disappointing for Scott and his connections, the team is still a strong proposition ahead of Friday’s team competition, and we thank Lady Harris and Lady Kirkham for their support at these Games and to the sport. Ben and Holly were always going to be in our team line up and it’s great to bring Harry into the trio at his first Games.”