Main image: Rose Canter and Lordships Graffalo (not the fence in question), image by FEI/Benjamin Clark.
Controversy has followed the cross country at the Paris Olympics with British rider Ros Canter being stung with a missed flag penalty – even though it looks as though she was in the clear.
The incident happened at fence 21D and saw Ros and Lordships Graffalo pick up 15 penalties – although this was added to her score some time after she completed.
Equestrian Life reported at the time of her ride, “Beautifully balanced through the Whimsical Woods, they ever so slightly tapped the arrowhead flag, but it doesn’t look like it will have repercussions.”
Ros was otherwise clear and under time.
The miss flag penalty was appealed but later dismissed, seeing Ros now on a two-phase score of 38.4.
There have been some reports of the camera on the fence being obscured, with the appeal only accepting the official evidence of the horse jumping the fence – which allegedly doesn’t exist – meaning they have elected to uphold the decision made by the fence steward, although this is unconfirmed.
Great Britain lead the field and hold the gold medal position on 82.5 heading into the final phase, just ahead of France on 87.2 and Japan on 93.8.
Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo – Missed flag penalty at the Paris Olympics
The incident happened at fence 21D and saw Ros and Lordships Graffalo pick up 15 penalties – although this was added to her score some time after she completed.
