Andrew Cooper and Sharvalley Thunder hold the overnight lead in the CCN4*-S class for Olympic long-listed combinations.

Andrew Cooper holds a double lead at Melbourne International

By Equestrian Life

After some early morning showers, the skies cleared at the Melbourne International Three-Day Event to bring spectators and sport fans a thrilling day of Cross Country action. The courses, designed by experienced Course Designers Ewan Kellett and Mick Pineo, rode well all day, with time proving influential accross the classes.

CCI4*-L – Pryde’s EasiFeed

It was experienced 4* rider and Melbourne International veteran Andrew Cooper who was the only rider to go undertime in the top class this weekend, rising ten places to hold the overnight lead in the CCI4*-L aboard Pepper Jack. Cooper and Pepper Jack lie in first with a score of 37.2, with Yona Lloyd and Ballahowe Ayurvedic close behind in second on 37.6 and Jessica Rae and Rascal rounding out the top 3 with 38.2.

With less than a rail between the top three, it promises to be a tight finish.

CCN4-S*

With all eyes on the CCN4*-S class for Olympic long-listed combinations, Andrew Cooper again rode a fast round to hold the overnight lead aboard Sharvalley Thunder. Leading on a score of 32.7, Shenae Lowings and Bold Venture (ott) are close behind in second (33.6), while Olivia Barton and Hollyander HG hold third (42.5).

Notably, Shane Rose chose to not run cross country today, following his remarkable return to competition after a serious riding accident which saw him in the ICU.

CCI3-L – 4Cyte

The 4Cyte CCI3*-L saw Shenae Lowings climb from fifth after dressage to take the overnight lead with OTT Chasing Great (31.3). Ellie Gough on Don J’Amee and Teegan Ashby with Magic Mushroom TAE (ott) are tied for second overnight, both on a score of 31.7.

CCI2-L – Off The Track

In the Off The Track CCI2*-L, Murray Lamperd and Full Fathom Five maintained their lead with 28.5, followed by Jess Somerfield on APH New Sensation (30.5) and Isabella Draper with Honourdale in third (30.8).

CCI Junior/Young Rider 2-L – Off The Track

Ruby Rae and WHF Frequency continue their lead in the Off The Track CCI Junior/Young Rider 2*-L on 28.7, adding no penalties to their overnight score. Hannah Rockwell and Bold Cointreau remain in second (29.4), while Charlie Richardson and A Foxy Lady lie in third (30.9).

CCN1-L for Thoroughbreds Only

The newly introduced CCN1*-L for Thoroughbreds showcased impressive performances, with Georgia Spangaro and Lord Wimborne (ott) maintaining their lead on 25.3, adding no penalties to their dressage score. Kylah Brewer on Princess Keikilani (ott) lie in second (28.3), and Lily Wickenden with Stage Fright (ott) holds third overnight (28.7).

Georgia Spangaro and Lord Wimborne (ott) have maintained their lead on 25.3