OLIVER HEADS HSBC FEI CLASSICS

His win at The Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials gives Oliver Townend the current lead in the HSBC FEI Classics ™ standings – the series of five, four-star events that offers a first prize of US$150,000 to the rider gaining the most points at the end of series.

Oliver, who had got a foothold on the standings leader board after gaining eighth place at the Rolex Kentucky four-star in Lexington, now has one point over second-placed British rider William Fox-Pitt winner of the inaugural HSBC FEI Classics series last year.

“The series has completely altered the way I think about and plan the season now,” said 26-year-old Oliver. “It was the reason I went to Lexington and I hope to have a horse for every four-star in the series this year.”

William, who was sixth in Lexington, gained more points at Badminton for second place with Idalgo while Lucy Weigersma who was also placed in Kentucky consolidated her position of fifth.

Oliver and William have now overtaken Lucinda Fredericks, the leader after winning at Lexington who did not have a ride at Badminton.

“We are delighted with the response to the series that is now really beginning to gain momentum and really look forward to the next event at Luhmuhlen,” said Giles Morgan, Group Head of Sponsorship HSBC Holdings plc.

2009 HSBC FEI Classics Standings (after two events)

1          Oliver Townend – GBR       18

2          William Fox-Pitt – GBR       17

3          Lucinda Fredericks – AUS 15

4          Bettina Hoy – GER              12

5          Lucy Wiegersma – GBR     11

6          Buck Davison – USA          10