By Eq Life Staff

© Kit Houghton

Eventing legend William Fox-Pitt has announced his withdrawal from Badminton Horse Trials.

Fox-Pitt has withdrawn his only mount Parklane Hawk in a statement posted to his Facebook page wall where he outlines his reasoning behind the considered decision.

“After the disappointment of our performance at Weston Park I have decided that we have run out of time for Badminton.  It is obviously a shame not to be heading back, but you have to have the right preparation for a competition like this. Parklane Hawk has got the whole autumn to look forward to,” Fox-Pitt has said in a statement, before giving his hopeful fans an outline of what’s to come. “I am competing this weekend at Bicton, and my next big target is the first leg of Event Rider Masters at Dodson & Horrell Chatsworth Horse Trials.”

The decision appears to be as a result of the tumble William Fox-Pitt took with Parkland Hawk, just weeks after getting back in the saddle following head trauma due to a seperate incident.

Hugh Thomas, Director at Badminton Horse Trials, has come out in support of William Fox-Pitt’s decision saying “We are naturally sorry that the reigning champion is not returning to Badminton. But we are delighted that William is in such good health and wish him the best of luck for a successful rest of the season.”

Despite the shock announcement, all eyes will still undoubtedly be on William as the season continues.

Source: Fox-Pitt Eventing Facebook page