Final Training Preparations for the London Olympic Games

The Whole Crew - It Takes a Village!

Well guys, after five grueling weeks of training here at Eddie Stibbe's beautiful Lavender Hill Farm it's time to let the games begin.  It has been a great experience that has very much improved the horses.

Celebrating

I must admit, I have been taking full advantage of Silva being here.  She has schooled Otis on the flat for me the last few days, really tuning him up for the test. He has been looking better and better in every session, and even received a few 'here we go' comments from Captain Mark Phillips.

Final Jump School (on Remi)

I had the final jump school yesterday with Lauren Hough.  We set up a few combinations with 'V' poles, encouraging the horses to use their technique. All of the horses jumped well and look in prime form for the show jumping.

Preparing for our final gallop - Otis (with Will Coleman at left)

We then went on to the gallop and blasted the horses up the hill. Mark has been very concerned by the steep hills that we will face in Greenwich, so he has put a massive emphasis on the fitness of all of the horses.

Final Trot-Up

The final stage of the camp was the vet check of the horses early this morning to make sure that they are all in good health after the gallop.  All of the horses looked in good shape, so the team will stay the same.

Otis and Twizzel

It's a great feeling knowing that we are going to this major event fully prepared!

Boyd

Remington XXV