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<p><strong><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">King Edward</span></strong><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> is a team gold medalist at the Olympic Games (2021) and World Championships (2022) where he was also crowned the individual World Champion. In the following years he added <em>two </em>World Cup Final victories to his CV. He surpassed Explosion W, the individual Olympic Champion in 2021, as the highest-rated horse in the sport since EquiRatings data analytics began in 2010. The opening chapters in the&nbsp;<strong><em>story</em></strong> of Paris 2024 were all about this hero being able to add an individual Olympic medal to his legacy. In all likelihood, that was his final shot. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">How that story ended couldn&rsquo;t have been more dramatic. The parting of company between the World Number One, Henrik Von Eckermann, and potentially the greatest horse of all-time, King Edward, wasn&rsquo;t the twist anyone saw coming. The eventual champion, Germany&rsquo;s Christian Kukuk, already a dual five-star winner this season with his mount Checker, was only a minor character in the first half of the story. But the question of whether or not Paris had a good ending or not is actually quite irrelevant. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">A story can have an incredible ending, but if only a small handful of people were really immersed in the story to begin with, the other few million that tune in to watch the ending won&rsquo;t really feel anything. The spectacle of Henrik and King Edward parting ways will be dramatic of course. The commentator will do their best to communicate the significance, but no matter how well you narrate the climax, it will fall on deaf ears if you didn&rsquo;t write the first half of the narrative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span></span></p>
<h1 class="MsoTitle"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">EquiRatings</span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong><em><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">We make the sport matter. </span></em></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">At EquiRatings, we write the script and tell the first half of the story so that the audience is engaged and connected to the characters. The final chapter is the competition itself where no one knows the final outcome, but the world is now watching with understanding, connection and emotion.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">We work with world renowned equestrian shows to make their sport matter. Shows are not just competing with other sports and their Netflix narratives which create highly engaged and loyal fans, but equestrian shows are also locked in competition with each other. Different series on the same weekends can confuse the audience, split their attention and ultimately lead to disengaged fans switching off, even when they are attending a live show. The hospitality, shopping and social aspect becomes the pinnacle of the show, and the sport is simply a quiet underlying sub plot for only a handful of passionate and loyal fans.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">We help shows to market and message their sport through Fan Guides, graphics, media support and briefings, podcasts, games and many more bespoke solutions. Our team is available to discuss your show, your sport and your journey to a more engaging experience and a broader fan base.</span></p>

Did Kukuk Kill The King...?

<h3>The Intensity of the Competition</h3>
<p>The track laid out for the final was exceptionally challenging, with only three riders from thirty managing to complete clear rounds. The stakes were high, and the pressure was noticeable as the world's top combinations vied for Olympic glory.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Christian Kukuk and Checker 47: The Champions</h3>
<p>Christian Kukuk and his horse Checker 47 emerged as the deserving Olympic champions. Their performance was exceptional, marked by two clear rounds, a feat unmatched by any other competitor. Kukuk's consistent form throughout the year, including victories in Wellington and Madrid, set the stage for this triumph.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Heartwarming Moments</h3>
<p>The competition was filled with moments that tugged at the heartstrings. Karl Cook's emotional reaction after a mistake that cost him dearly highlighted the human aspect of the sport. Cook, who had an incredible journey to the Olympics, showed vulnerability and humility, reminding everyone of the intense emotions involved.</p>
<p>Steve Guerdat's profound reflections after winning his silver medal, speaking about enjoying the moment and valuing family, added a heartwarming touch. His perspective, shaped by years of experience and previous Olympic triumphs, resonated deeply with fans and fellow competitors alike.</p>
<h3>The Unexpected Exit of Henrik von Eckermann</h3>
<p>One of the most shocking moments was the elimination of Henrik von Eckermann and King Edward, the favourites to win (8% win chance). Von Eckermann's fall was a stark reminder of the sport's unpredictability and the immense pressure riders face. Despite being statistically the best horse in the field, the unexpected happened, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<h3>The Triumph of Beauville Z and Maikel van der Vleuten</h3>
<p>In a heartwarming turn, Beauville Z and Maikel van der Vleuten won a bronze medal, adding to their legacy. Beauville Z, often underappreciated, proved his mettle by becoming the third horse in history to win two Olympic individual medals. This achievement underscored the resilience and consistency of this remarkable horse and rider duo.</p>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<p>The individual jumping competition at the Paris Olympics was a showcase of equestrian excellence, filled with drama, emotion, and unforgettable moments. As the dust settles, the equestrian community looks forward to future competitions, including the upcoming events in Dublin and Brussels, and the World Cup series.</p>
<p>The Paris Olympics have reminded us of the beauty and intensity of equestrian sports, where every jump, every moment, and every rider's journey contribute to a narrative that captivates and inspires. Congratulations to all the riders and horses who participated, and especially to Christian Kukuk and Checker 47, our deserving Olympic champions. See you in Dublin!</p>

The Thrilling Conclusion to the Individual Jumping Competition at the Paris Olympics

<h3><strong>Reflecting on the Team Final</strong></h3>
<p>The excitement from the team final still lingers. Many, myself included, are still processing the drama, intense competition and surprising outcomes. Sweden's failure to medal, the Dutch just missing out, and the Brit's near-perfect performance were all significant moments that will be discussed for a long time to come.</p>
<h3><strong>Today's Challenge</strong></h3>
<p>Today's qualifier is about strategy and precision. Riders will aim for a conservative, clear jumping round, mindful of the clock. A single rail down could be costly, so speed will be crucial if penalties occur. The goal is simple yet challenging: secure a place among the top 30 to advance to Tuesday's final.</p>
<p>As well as the usual prediction centre analysing win chances and medal chances, the EquiRatings data science team have used 50,000 simulations to analyse and rate each combination's chance of qualifying for the individual Olympic final tomorrow. The results has produced for us a simulated top 30 with all those below a 46% qualification chance, predicted to miss out. Of those who fall outside of the top 30 on predictions, notable horses include&nbsp;<strong>Jefferson </strong>(Scott Brash, GBR, 39% chance of making the final), and <strong>I Amelusina R 51 </strong>(Simon Delestre, FRA, 45% chance of making the final).&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>Top Contenders</strong></h3>
<p>We have some excellent and in-form combinations to watch in today's qualifier. Four horses come into this qualifier with a perfect record from the two days of last week's team event:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Caracole de la Roque</strong> (Karl Cook, USA, 761 Elo rating, 75% chance of making the final);</li>
<li><strong>Imagine </strong>(Kim Emmen, Netherlands, 715 Elo rating, 58% chance of making the final);&nbsp;</li>
<li><strong>Zineday</strong> (Philipp Weishaupt, Germany, 731 Elo rating, 53% chance of making the final); and</li>
<li><strong>Legacy </strong>(Daniel Coyle, Ireland, 759 Elo rating, 76%&nbsp;chance of making the final).&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
<p>These horses have shown exceptional form and go into the individual event as strong contenders.</p>
<h3><strong>The Favourite: King Edward&nbsp;</strong></h3>
<p><strong>King Edward</strong>, ridden by Henrik von Eckermann, enters the qualifier as the EquiRatings prediction centre favourite on a win chance of 7% and with a record Elo rating of 815. We also rate his chances of making tomorrow's final at 77%. Despite a hiccup earlier in the competition, this exceptional horse has consistently demonstrated why he&rsquo;s considered one of the best, if not&nbsp;<em>the </em>best, in the world. His ability to handle pressure will be put to the test once more.</p>
<h3><strong>Other Key Combinations to Watch</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Martin Fuchs and Leone Jei </strong>(Switzerland, Elo rating 774, 76% chance of making the final): Fuchs is determined to make up for the team's missed opportunity.</li>
<li><strong>Julien &Eacute;</strong><strong>paillard and Dubai du Cedre </strong>(France, Elo rating 775, 74% chance of making the final): A combination with a solid track record hoping to win a medal in front of a home crowd.</li>
<li><strong>Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz </strong>(Ireland, Elo rating 774, 73% chance of making the final): Another top contender aiming for individual glory, while looking to add to Ireland's record Olympics medal tally.</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>The Excitement Builds</strong></h3>
<p>As we look forward to this afternoon's event, the stakes couldn't be higher. The riders are ready, the horses are in peak condition, and fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the outcome. Tune in to witness what promises to be a dramatic and exciting display, as we find out which 30 combinations will move on to the final.</p>
<p>Don't miss the action this afternoon. The road to Olympic jumping glory continues in Paris!</p>
<p><iframe id="datawrapper-chart-ThqnN" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" title="EquiRatings' predictions for each combinations chance of making the Olympic individual final" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ThqnN/3/" height="1195" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" aria-label="Table" data-external="1"></iframe></p>

Paris Olympics Individual Jumping Qualifier: A Preview

Live win & podium chances - Paris Individual Qualifier

<p>One of the favourites for tomorrow's gold, Team Ireland, has actually never finished higher than 7th in the Jumping Olympic Team competition (&amp; that was way back in 1956). Their biggest rivals today are the defending champions and sports-dominating Swedes.</p>
<h2>Team Ireland&nbsp;<br>20% win chance&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Back in 1956, Team Ireland finished 7th in the Jumping Olympic Team competition in Stockholm. To this day, they have never finished higher in the Olympic team competition. It is time that changed.</p>
<p>The Irish team comfortably qualified for the final and will be entering as the favourites to win on a win chance of 20%. Our predictions also give them a 45% chance of winning their first-ever team medal.</p>
<h2><br>Team Sweden<br>18% win chance</h2>
<p>They are the defending champions. They hold current Olympic, World and European titles. Sweden has been synonymous with jumping success in recent years, a charge that has been led by the record-breaking equine athlete that is King Edward. But none of this would have been possible without the relentless dedication from the Swedish human athletes. A team with meticulous management, team spirit and horsemanship that knows how to get the best out of their horses on the days when it matters. Today, it matters more than ever.</p>
<p>They enter today's Team Final as second favourites on a win chance of 18% and 48% of bringing home a medal. Will the Swedish success story continue in Paris?</p>
<h2><br>Team USA<br>14% win chance</h2>
<p>Team USA have won the Team Silver at the last two Olympic Games and with the exhibition they showed in yesterday&rsquo;s qualifier, they have shown class and power enough to bid for the gold. It was in 2008 that the USA last won Team Gold in jumping. Two of those team members, McLain Ward &amp; Laura Kraut, are on the 2024 team to repeat that performance 16 years down the line. They are in good company, as reserve combination Karl Cook and Caracole de la Roque got a late call-up to replace Kent Farrington and Greya on the team. No problem for the pair, as they handled the pressure of the substitution with ease to produce a solid clear.</p>
<p>A solid team built from experience, class and form. They enter the Final as third favourites with a 14% win chance.</p>
<h2><br>Team Belgium<br>12% win chance</h2>
<p>The Belgians were brilliant in their Team Qualifier today. A team that has all the ingredients to succeed. With the highly experienced pair, Jerome Guery &amp; 18-year-old multi-medalist Quel Homme de Hus, the young sensations in Gilles Thomas &amp; Ermitage Kalone and the calm and collected Wilm Vermeir &amp; his IQ van het Steentje, the Belgians are a team not to be missed in the Final.</p>
<p>Despite winning the bronze medal at the last Olympics in Tokyo, it is absolutely incredible to say that Belgium has never won a Team Gold medal at the Jumping Olympics. As a matter of fact, the nation where equestrianism is almost ingrained in its culture has only ever medalled three times in the history of the Games. With a team like this, there is no better time to add another medal to that tally.</p>
<h2><br>Team Germany<br>11% win chance</h2>
<p>They were the eye-catchers in today's qualifier by being the only team finishing the competition on a zero score, with a 6 penalty margin over the USA. With flawless performances from Christian Kukuk &amp; Checker 47, Philipp Weishaupt &amp; Zineday and Richard Vogel &amp; United Touch S, the German team have shown they have the skill and precision it takes to deliver another gold medal performance</p>
<p>Germany has been steeped in history as the most successful nation in Olympic Team Jumping. With a whopping 14 medals, of which 8 gold, no nation in tomorrow's Team Final is more decorated.</p>
<p>The team enters tomorrow's Team Final as fifth favourites with a 14% win chance</p>
<h2><br>Team Mexico<br>2% win chance</h2>
<p>The Mexicans have found their momentum. After this charismatic and exciting team finished second in the Mercedes-Benz Nations Cup of Aachen, the Mexicans have continued to ride the wave of success. Despite a setback necessitating the reserve combination to step in, they have thrived under the pressure and against the odds qualified for the Team Final. Olympic debutante &amp; team pathfinder, Carlos Hank Guerreiro produced the best team score at just 24 years of age.</p>
<p>It's been 44 years since Mexico last graced the podium of a Jumping Olympic Team competition. Can they do it again?</p>
<p>As always, follow all the updates live on our EquiRatings Jumping WhatsApp channel: <a href="https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaByaVo3QxS7qLas323H" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

Historic Hopes and Rising Stars: Olympic Jumping Teams Gear Up for Thrilling Final

<h3>Britain&rsquo;s Surgical Precision</h3>
<p>Britain&rsquo;s team, led by the remarkable Scott Brash, delivered a flawless performance under immense pressure. As Brash trotted into the arena on Jefferson, the weight of Britain's expectations rested on his shoulders. With surgical precision, he navigated the course, securing Britain's victory with a clear round. This performance was a testament to Brash's skill and Jefferson's peak form, reminiscent of their past glories in CHIO Aachen.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>The Challenging Format</h3>
<p>The format of this competition added layers of tension. Unlike the European and World Championships, where three rounds from four count towards the final standings, the Olympic format intensifies the pressure on each rider. Germany, despite a perfect performance yesterday, faltered today, with rails down for both Richard Vogel and Christian Kukuk, costing them a medal.</p>
<h3>Key Performances and Heartbreaks</h3>
<p>Scott Brash&rsquo;s impeccable final round performance was a highlight, but credit must be given to Harry Charles and Ben Maher. Charles and his horse Romeo 88, despite recent injuries, showed immense determination in jumping a clear round, while Maher&rsquo;s strategic decision to ride Dallas Vegas Batilly instead of Point Break proved a positive. Those performances underscored the depth and resilience of the British team.</p>
<p>Ireland, a team many championed (including ourselves), faced a heart-breaking outcome. Despite Daniel Coyle and Legacy&rsquo;s flawless round, and Cian O'Connor&rsquo;s valiant effort, small errors proved costly. Shane Sweetnam and James Kann Cruz's time penalty and rail down at the last jump were particularly disheartening. Ireland&rsquo;s quest for a major championship team medal remains unfulfilled, leaving them with a bittersweet sense of what could have been. Sweden&rsquo;s King Edward, a usually reliable performer, had a rail down, dramatically lowering Sweden&rsquo;s chances. The Dutch team, despite superb performances, missed out on a medal by only half a second.</p>
<h3>The Role of Super Subs</h3>
<p>Three last-minute substitutions significantly impacted the final standings. Olivier Perreau for France, Kim Emmen for the Netherlands, and Karl Cook for the USA all delivered clear rounds under immense pressure. Perreau&rsquo;s performance was particularly poignant, securing France&rsquo;s bronze medal with a clear round and the fastest time. Kim Emmen&rsquo;s clear round showed her remarkable composure, and Karl Cook&rsquo;s steady performance helped the USA clinch silver medal.</p>
<h3>Looking Ahead to the Individual Competition&nbsp;</h3>
<p>As the focus shifts to the individual competition on Monday, the medal chances remain wide open. The performances over the past two days have shown that anything can happen. The individual competition promises to be just as thrilling, with drama sure to unfold right until the last jump.</p>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<p>The Paris Olympics Team Jumping Final was a fantastic showcase of elite show jumping, with Great Britain peaking at the right time to clinch gold. As we look forward to the individual competition qualifier on Monday, today&rsquo;s events will be remembered as a highlight of the Paris Olympics, demonstrating the thrilling and unpredictable nature of team jumping.</p>

 Great Britain Triumphs as Drama Unfolds in Paris Team Jumping Final

Live win & podium chances - Paris Team Final

<h3>Drama and Team Eliminations</h3>
<p>The headline of the day was the shocking elimination of Switzerland, a top contender alongside Ireland and Sweden. Switzerland&rsquo;s exit, driven by disappointing rounds from Steve Guerdat &amp; Dynamix de Belheme and Martin Fuchs &amp; Leonie Jei, left fans and analysts stunned. Despite their strong track record, the Swiss team couldn't overcome early faults, crashing them out of the competition and leaving them no longer in the running for a medal.</p>
<h3>Team Performance Highlights</h3>
<p>The Irish and Swedish teams also faced their share of challenges. For Ireland, Daniel Coyle and Legacy stood out, delivering a solid performance that kept their medal hopes alive. Sweden, although initially struggling, managed to hold their ground thanks to strong rides from Henrick Von Eckermann &amp; King Edward and Rolf-G&ouml;ran Bengtsson &amp; Zuccero HV.</p>
<p>Germany emerged as a surprising force, with Richard Vogel and United Touch S delivering an impeccable round that seemed almost effortless. The German team's perfect score positions them as a strong contender for the finals.</p>
<p>Young riders also made their mark, with notable performances from Kim Emmen (Netherlands), and Carlos Hank Guerreiro (Mexico), who both demonstrated remarkable poise and talent in their Olympic debuts.</p>
<h3>Impact of Course and Arena</h3>
<p>The atmosphere of the Paris arena, coupled with the challenging course setup, played a significant role in the day's outcomes. The grandstands, backdrop, and jump designs created an environment that tested both horse and rider, contributing to the day's dramatic twists and turns.</p>
<p>The psychological aspect of competing at the Olympics was evident, as riders faced immense pressure to perform. The ability to handle this pressure will be crucial in tomorrow's final, where every round will count towards the coveted Olympic medals.</p>
<h3>Predictions for the Final</h3>
<p>With Switzerland out, the predictions for the podium have shifted. The updated EquiRatings Prediction Centre reflects these changes, with Ireland leading with a 20% win chance and a 45% medal chance, followed by defending champions Sweden on 18% &amp; 49%. They are then followed closely by the quartet of&nbsp; the USA (14%/ 40%), Germany (11% win chance/ 37% medal chance), Belgium (12%/ 36%), and the Netherlands (9%/ 33%).&nbsp; It looks to be between those six for the medal places but that's not to rule out one of France, Great Britain or Mexico springing a surprise.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<p>The team jumping qualifiers at the Paris Olympics were filled with unexpected eliminations, standout performances, and intense competition. As we look forward to the finals, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the team jumping event. Will Germany carry their impressive performance into the final? Can Ireland secure their first ever championship team medal? Will the USA pull off a surprise victory?</p>
<p>As always, follow all the updates live on our EquiRatings Jumping WhatsApp channel: <a href="https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaByaVo3QxS7qLas323H" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><iframe style="border: none;" title="Embed Player" src="https://play.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/32383377/height/192/theme/modern/size/large/thumbnail/yes/custom-color/000000/time-start/00:00:00/playlist-height/200/direction/backward/download/yes/font-color/FFFFFF" width="100%" height="192" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

Team Jumping Qualifiers at the Paris Olympics: Drama, Surprises, and Predictions for the Final

Live win & podium chances - Paris Team Qualifier

<p>The Paris 2024 Olympics are just around the corner, and the equestrian showjumping discipline is set to be a thrilling competition. While Ireland enters the first qualifying competition as the narrow favourite, it will not be an easy task to bring home the gold. As they go up against the dominating Sweden, the Swiss delegation have a secret weapon up their sleeve, ready to be unleashed in the Team Final.</p>
<h2>Ireland: The Consistent Nation</h2>
<p>Ireland is a top contender in the upcoming Olympics, boasting an impressive 81% team clear rate at the 5-star 160 level in 2024. This consistency makes them a formidable team, with horses like James Kann Cruise showing strong performances. However, Ireland's challenge comes in Round 2, where some combinations&rsquo; clear rates drop. Will they overcome this hurdle to secure their first-ever Olympic team medal in showjumping?</p>
<h2>Switzerland: The Round Two Performers</h2>
<p>Switzerland might just be the team to beat, especially given their excellent Round Two &nbsp;performances. Horses like Leone Jei and Steve Guerdat's Dynamix de Belheme have shown a tendency to excel in the second round, with clear rates as high as 83%. This ability to improve in the crucial rounds makes Switzerland a dangerous competitor.</p>
<h2>Sweden: The Defending Champions</h2>
<p>Sweden has a history of dominance in showjumping, currently holding all three championship medals. Horses like Zuccero are known for better performances in Round Two, despite a slower start in Round One. With their track record and ability for on-demand performance, Sweden is undoubtedly a team to keep an eye on as they aim to continue their winning streak.</p>
<h2>Germany: The Underdogs</h2>
<p>Germany's team, including riders like Christian Kukuk, has shown mixed results. While some riders have strong Round Two &nbsp;performances, others have struggled. However, their potential to deliver under pressure cannot be underestimated. Germany&rsquo;s consistency in prior competitions makes them a team to watch in this year's event.</p>
<h2>Key Horses to Watch</h2>
<p><strong>James Kann Cruise</strong>: Known for a high clear rate in Round One, but faces challenges in maintaining this in Round Two.<br><strong>King Edward</strong>: Exhibits remarkable consistency and strength, especially in Round Two..<br><strong>Leone Jei</strong>: Perfect in 2024, making him a standout rider for the Swiss team.<br><strong>Zuccero</strong>: A stronger performer in the second round, making him a crucial rider for Sweden's chances.</p>
<p><img src="https://admin.equiratings.com/assets/27f1ee9f-0071-4d89-9d2b-a3959b753b84?width=1916&amp;height=2308" alt="1 Eqj H Paris Olympics Team Jumping Nation Form (1)"></p>
<p><br>The Paris 2024 Olympics in showjumping promise to be a nail-biting event, with each team bringing unique strengths and challenges to the table. Whether it's Ireland's quest for their first medal, Switzerland's strategic Round 2 prowess, or Sweden's bid to maintain dominance, the competition will be fierce. Stay tuned and watch as these incredible athletes and their horses compete for Olympic glory!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

Show jumping