LEXINGTON, KY – Great Britain’s Tom McEwen, piloting the formidable Brookfield Quality, has secured a provisional third-place standing following the dressage phase of the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event CCI5*-L. McEwen and the bay gelding, owned by John and Chloe Perry and Alison Swinburn, delivered a polished performance on April 24th, earning a score of 25.1 penalties.

The result underscores Brookfield Quality’s consistent form at this elite level, improving upon their fifth-place finish at the same venue last year. McEwen lauded his mount, stating, “He couldn’t have given me more,” a testament to the horse’s focus and execution in the demanding atmosphere of the Kentucky Horse Park’s main arena.

The pair’s test was marked by fluidity and precision, demonstrating the meticulous preparation characteristic of top-tier eventing partnerships. Their score positions them firmly within striking distance of the leaders as the competition now shifts its focus to the notoriously challenging cross-country phase.

Cross-country at Kentucky is renowned for its technicality and stamina requirements, often proving to be the most influential phase. McEwen’s strategic approach and Brookfield Quality’s proven athleticism will be critical in maintaining their podium contention. The gelding’s powerful gallop and scope over fences will be key assets on Derek di Grazia’s demanding track.

This strong start for McEwen and Brookfield Quality not only highlights their individual prowess but also signals a formidable British contingent in contention for top honors. The pressure now mounts for the cross-country, where every stride and every jump will dictate the leaderboard ahead of Sunday's show jumping finale.