Ashker and her own Anthony Patch proved the strength of their 13-year partnership with a consistent and expressive test. Currently leading the Rolex/USEF CCI4* Eventing National Championship and lying in second overall, the pair will head into Saturday’s cross-country phase on a 44.2.
Phillip Dutton, a seasoned veteran of Rolex Kentucky competition, rode two horses into the top ten with Fernhill Fugitive, owned by Thomas Tierney and Ann Jones, and Fernhill Cubalawn, owned by Thomas Tierney and Simon Roosevelt. Second to go this morning, Fernhill Fugitive was in textbook form, scoring a 47.5 to place third after day one of dressage. During the last session of the afternoon, Dutton brought Fernhill Cubalawn into Rolex Stadium where the pair scored a 50.9 and currently sit in seventh.
Rounding out the current top five for the U.S. is Jolie Wentworth and Goodknight, in fifth place on a 50.6, and Elisa Wallace and Simply Priceless in sixth place on a 50.8.
Going into the overall lead early in the day were Michael Jung of Germany and fischerRocana FST. The Team Gold medalists from 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games set a score that could not be topped with a 39.3.
Day two of the dressage phase should prove to be exciting with a lineup that includes multiple Olympic and World Equestrian Games medalists as well as past Rolex Kentucky Champions. Competition begins at 9:30 a.m. ET.
Each day of competition can be viewed live on the USEF Network presented by SmartPak. In addition to the webcast, post ride interviews, daily wrap-ups with Sinead Halpin and Hannah Sue Burnett, the order of go, results, and behind the scenes photos and videos can be found on the USEF Network.
The USEF International High Performance Programs are generously supported by the USET Foundation, USOC, and USEF Sponsors and Members.