Scott Brash withdraws from Tokyo 2020 ahead of team competition

Scott Brash and Jefferson in Tuesday’s individual qualifier © BEF / Jon Stroud Media

Minor strain leads to the withdrawal of Scott Brash’s ride, Jefferson, ahead of the team competition at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games

After missing out on individual Olympic medal contention when he incurred just one unlucky time penalty, it’s now been reported that Great Britain’s Scott Brash and Jefferson will withdraw from the team competition, which commences with the qualifier on Friday (6 August).

Jefferson, owned by Lady Pauline Harris and Lady Pauline Kirkham and ridden by Scott Brash, won’t compete as he sustained a minor strain while jumping the individual final.

This change means that 22-year-old Harry Charles riding his own and Ann Thompson’s Romeo 88 will now join Ben Maher riding Charlotte Rossetter, Pamela Wright and his own Explosion W and Holly Smith and Denver, owned by Ian Dowie, who make their Olympic debut, in the team line-up.

Equestrian Team Leader Richard Waygood commented: “In consultation with Scott, his valued owners and our team vet, we’ve decided it’s in the horse’s best interests to withdraw from the competition as a preventative measure to avoid a more serious injury. While disappointing for Scott and his connections, the team is still a strong proposition ahead of Friday’s team competition and we thank Lady Harris and Lady Kirkham for their support at these Games and to the sport. Ben and Holly were always going to be in our team line up and it’s great to bring Harry into the trio at his first Games.”

For more information, visit britishequestrian.org.uk