The Bicton International Horse Trials got underway today in Bicton, Devon, as the first combinations entered the dressage arena for four days of world class eventing. With early scores already setting the tone, the event once again hosts the British leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ and brings together international teams, established combinations and developing talent across a packed programme of competition.
In the TopSpec CCI4*-S, Jennifer Caras and Sommersby made a strong start to take the early lead with a score of 31.3. The pair arrive at Bicton following a historic win at Burnham Market International Horse Trials in Norfolk, where Caras became the first American rider to win an international class at the event. Speaking after her test this morning, Caras said: “I was really happy with Sommersby. There are obviously always areas we can improve on, but I was happy with the consistency and that’s the first time I have done that test. To put it all together and have him behave so well in the atmosphere was really good. We’re looking forward to the rest of the weekend and being back here at Bicton for the third year.”
Close behind, Tom Rowland and Quintilius, sit in second place on 31.9. Alexandra Knowles and Leo Santos complete the top three on 34.5.
Cassie Sanger and MT Luxaan. Photo by ESP Photographic.
The Empire Coachbuilders CCI3*-L delivered an exciting opening day, with the current top six finishing on sub 30 scores. Cassie Sanger and MT Luxaan lead the way after dressage on 25.8. Laura Collett, who has four rides entered across the competition, sits second with 8 year old grey gelding Cooley Iceage, known at home as Diego, on 26.4, just 0.1 penalties ahead of Bubby Upton and Guinduno in third on 26.5.
Ella Howard and Delauney. Photo by ESP Photographic.
New for 2026, the Renaissance Care CCIJ2*-L demonstrates Bicton’s commitment to developing young riders and horses, offering valuable competitive experience in a high-quality international environment. Ella Howard, aged 18 and currently leading the Junior Rankings, produced the leading test of the day with Delauney on 26.6. Reflecting on her test, Howard said: “I’m delighted with Delauney. We’ve been working really hard in this phase to achieve the mark he’s capable of, so I’m really pleased he stayed with me and that it came together today.” Annabel Ridgway and LVS Movistar follow in second on 30.2, with Florence Drewitt and EG Michealangelo sitting third on 30.4.
Stephen Heal and Coulston Jericho. Photo by ESP Photographic.
The Charles Owen CCI2*-L rounded off the opening day’s action, with Stephen Heal and Coulston Jericho taking the lead on 23.3. Laura Collett and Forbidden Pleasure are close behind in second on 23.9, while Max Warburton and Graf Magic complete the current top three on 24.6.
Tom McEwen and Brookfield Future News. Photo by ESP Photographic.
Leaders from the other classes include Tom McEwen, who leads the Symonds & Sampson CCI3*-S with Brookfield Future News, known at home as Fletcher, on a score of 25.1. Lucy Standish leads the Succeed CCIY3*-L with Global H, who was her 14th birthday present, on a score of 28.8.
Lucy Standish and Global H. Photo by ESP Photographic.
The FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ will officially get underway Friday with four teams set to compete in the dressage arena from 10.00am BST. As the only British leg of the series, Bicton offers spectators the chance to see leading riders from across the globe compete for their nations in Devon.
Alongside the sporting action, visitors can enjoy a packed programme of family entertainment across the weekend. Highlights include displays from the Knights of Middle England, Shetland pony racing, a family dog show, children’s activities, have-a-go dog agility and demonstrations from Lorna Hayes with 2024 Crufts Champion Dancing Dog, Nora. Also new for 2026, Bicton International welcomes the Members Lounge, alongside the returning Owners, Riders and Grooms Lounge, giving visitors even more ways to enjoy the event. Picnic parking and tailgate parking are also available, allowing spectators to relax and enjoy a full day of sport and entertainment in the Devon countryside.
Nations Cup at Bicton International CCIO4*-S (GBR): [Website] [Tickets] [Schedule] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer] [CrossCountry App XC Map] [Live Stream]
