A Record-Breaking Start to Kentucky

“I really love this place, this show. Everything went really well today.”
Michael Jung wasn’t just smiling after his test—he was making history.

With an extraordinary score of 18.6, Jung and fischerChipmunk FRH have delivered the best CCI5* dressage score at Kentucky since our records began in 2008. That’s not just a record—it’s a statement. In a phase that rewards precision, polish, and partnership, Jung brought all three in spades, laying down a marker for the rest of the weekend.

This isn't new territory for this legendary pairing. In fact, it’s the 15th time that fischerChipmunk FRH has gone sub-20 in an international competition. That’s 2.5 times more than the next best combination, Louis M and Pia Münker. From the Olympics to the 4*-S stages across Europe, they've been setting benchmarks everywhere they go.

fischerChipmunk FRH's Fifteen Sub-20 International Dressage Tests

Horses With 4 or More Sub-20 Dressage Scores at International Level (since 2008)

17 Years of History, Rewritten

To put the 18.6 in perspective, it knocks Bettina Hoy’s 19.2 with Ringwood Cockatoo (2009) off the top of the Kentucky leaderboard.

Jung's Rising Win Chance

And if that wasn't enough, Jung's record-breaking 18.6 has just boosted his win probability by 17%, rocketing the combination up to a 48% win chance according to the latest Prediction Centre figures.

And if Jung does go on to convert that into a win, it would be nothing short of historic— it would be his fifth Kentucky CCI5* victory, to go alongside his World Championship title earned here in 2010.

Prediction Centre Win, Podium and Top 10 Chances After Day One of Dressage

Changes in Prediction Centre Chances After Day One of Dressage

New Zealanders in Hot Pursuit

But there’s no room for complacency. Behind the German maestro sits a hungry pair of New Zealanders, both posting 28.4 to hold joint 2nd after day one.

Clarke Johnstone and Menlo Park impressed in their first Kentucky 5*. Clarke hasn’t competed here in over 15 years, and he’s made the return count. “He’s just a lovely guy,” Clarke said of his horse. “Loves travelling, people, and doing things. He’s fun to take to events like this.”

Tim Price, no stranger to the top table, praised Jarillo for stepping up when it mattered: “All we really want is for them to come out and deliver what they’re capable of doing, and I think both horses did that today.” And it’s not just Jarillo in the mix—Tim’s also sitting fourth with Happy Boy on a 29.1.

It’s a strong New Zealand showing—and with both riders known for their skill on cross-country, Jung won’t be relaxing any time soon.

Ones to Watch Tomorrow

Friday brings more big names and serious movers. Here are six horses to keep an eye on as the second half of the CCI5* dressage unfolds:

13:00 – Luke 140 (Boyd Martin)

13:48 – Brookfield Quality (Tom McEwen)

15:10 – Dyri (Lucienne Bellissimo)

15:18 – Falco (Tim Price)

15:26 – Grafennacht (Harry Meade)

15:34 – Commando 3 (Boyd Martin)

With Jung’s 18.6 still looming large, the pressure is on. Friday is going to be big.

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