Equestrianism: Six and out for Thomson: European champion overlooked

MARY THOMSON has been omitted from the long-list for September's European championships at Achselschwang in Germany. She jumped a marvellous cross-country round on King William at the Badminton Three-Day Event this month, but then lowered six fences in the show jumping and plummeted from fourth to 20th.

Bridget Parker, the new chairman of the selection committee, had already stated that she would not be interested in any horse that knocked down 'three or four' show jumps. So William's six have put Thomson out of the reckoning, despite excellent dressage and cross-country.

Virginia Leng and Tanya Cleverly, who finished first and third at Badminton, have their expected places. Leng has won the individual European title on three occasions and her latest partner, the grey Welton Houdini, will be one of the favourites.

Ian Stark, the reigning champion, did not have a horse qualified for Badminton. He will not be considered for the team, but could be given the chance to defend his title as an individual with either Stanwick Ghost or Clan Royal.

Long-list, Sporting Digest, page 31