Equestrianism: Horses for a big course: Burghley line-up

CAPTAIN Mark Phillips regards the cross-country course he has designed for next month's Remy Martin three- day event at Burghley as 'the biggest track in the world this year', writes Genevieve Murphy.

Some 58 overseas riders have entered and for the first time there will be a contest between four teams: Australia, New Zealand, USA and Britain.

British riders chosen for the European Championships, which take place a week later at Achselschwang in Germany, are not allowed to compete at Burghley in case they injure themselves. Ironically, the British B team face the tougher challenge. The course is bigger and the opposition stronger than for those trying to retain Britain's European title.