CLAYTON TAKES EARLY LEAD

British based Australian Clayton Fredericks and Nullabor (no. 28) have taken a comfortable lead half way through the first day of dressage at The Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials.

Despite blustery conditions and a heavy rain shower Nullabor remained focused on his rider producing a fluent and consistent test which was rewarded with high marks from all three judges. “In the conditions I am very happy to be where I am,” said Clayton who is trained by his British neighbour Jane Gregory (nee Bredin) and German trainer Harry Boldt.

Clayton, winner of the Individual silver medal at the World Equestrian Games in 2006 with Ben Long Time, has yet to win Badminton although last year he was fifth at Luhmuhlen and sixth at Burghley four star events with Nullabor. “He is now much more confirmed at the level and really lets me ride him,” said Clayton whose wife Lucinda was last year’s winner of the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton trophy.

With dressage out of the way Clayton is now focussing on the cross country course. “It is a tough enough track and there are lots of decisions yet to be made on striding.”

Clayton has a six penalty lead over former Badminton winner William Fox-Pitt and his 2005 Burghley winner Ballincoola who in turn has a marginal lead over Zara Philips and her first ride Glenbuck.