Winner of the 2021 “pop up” 5* at Bicton, Gemma and “Alfie” were also 14th here last year, before finishing in the top 10 at Burghley in the Autumn. While Gemma would be the first to say that he is not necessarily the most talented horse in her yard, Alfie is an out and out trier, as his FEI record demonstrates - barring the 15 penalties  for a missed flag here last year (which Gemma actually contested), his last cross country penalties were back in 2019. Rarely straying above a low 30 score in the dressage, they will head into cross country in a very good position which they should maintain - if not improve upon - by the end of the day. Theirs was one of the faster rounds here last year, and Gemma is incredibly competitive - she will not be coming to Badminton for a nice canter round, and a top 10 finish will be well within her sights - and capabilities.

FAST FACTS

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Last 3 Results:

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• Thoresby Park International 4-S* 3rd (33.3)
• Burghley 5* 9th (36.1)
• Hartpury International 4* 13th (36.9)

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Fun Fact:

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• Chilli Knight has also enjoyed success in pure show jumping - he and Gemma finished 3rd in the Fox Hunter at Hickstead last year.

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Did You Know?

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• Chilli Knight is out of King’s Gem, who Gemma rode to 5* level, and by Chilli Morning, one of the most decorated eventing stallions of all time - and winner of Badminton in 2015.

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Watch For:

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• A fast and confident cross country round. Gemma has produced this horse from the word go, and they know each other inside out. He was unusually strong and opinionated here last year, which Gemma was frustrated about, as it slowed them down a fair bit. Gemma has since got him back on side, and will be leaving the start box with the intention of not only coming home clear, but inside the time too.