The team of riders selected to represent Britain in the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup of Great Britain has been named. The squad, who will be competing at Hickstead later this month, comprises of reigning Olympic gold medallist Ben Maher (Exit Remo), British number two Harry Charles (Casquo Blue), Tim Gredley (Medoc De Toxandria), British team stalwart John Whitaker (Equine America Unick de Francport) and Donald Whitaker (Di Caprio).
The four riders who will make up the final team will be announced at the Nations Cup draw on Thursday 27 July, ahead of the competition itself on Friday 28 July.
“What a fantastic squad we have coming to Hickstead for this year’s Nations Cup,” said Hickstead Director Lizzie Bunn. “John has been on countless winning teams here over the years, and it’s great to see his nephew Donald make team selection here for the first time.
“To have the two highest ranked British riders in Ben and Harry gives the team chances a real boost, while Tim Gredley has had some great results with Medoc De Toxandria this season too.”
Britain currently sits in sixth place in the European Division One rankings, with the top seven teams qualifying for the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup Final in Barcelona.
The Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup forms the feature class on the Friday of the Longines Royal International Horse Show (26-31 July). Thursday’s main highlight is the Ashby Underwriting Eventers’ Challenge, while on Saturday crowds can enjoy the Breen Equestrian Queen Elizabeth II Cup. The show concludes on Sunday with the Grand Prix – the Longines King George V Gold Cup. The Royal International also showcases championship showing, scurry driving and national jumping classes of all levels.
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.hickstead.co.uk
Lead image of Olympic gold medallist Ben Maher competing at Hickstead in 2022. Credit Holly Tiltman
