GB show jumping team sit fourth
Britain lie joint fourth in the team show jumping after the first round, picking up 16 penalty points overall. But there was a scare for the team as fourth rider John Whitaker did not jump because his mount Peppermill was rested with a stiff back.
It is hoped he will recover in time for the final on Monday at 1215 BST.
The Swiss and US teams finished joint top with 12 points, while Sweden are third with 13 points. Canada were tied with the British team.
With only the three best scores counting in Sunday's round in Hong Kong, the injury to Peppermill was a fortunate escape for the British side.
Nick Skelton, who was a late-call up to Beijing after Michael Whitaker withdrew because of a lame horse, was Britain's first rider out and hit two fences for eight penalty points.
Britain's second and third riders, Tim Stockdale, on Corlato, and Ben Maher, on Rolette, were docked four each.
"I was a bit disappointed as we needed a clear round," said Maher afterwards. "She (Rolette) jumped slowly and touched the rail a little but we held it together to finish the course inside the time. But she is an unbelievable horse. We are not out of it yet and still have a chance."
The US are defending the Olympic team title and with the round acting as a second qualifier for the individual jumping, McLain Ward sits on top of the standings.
Maher is Britain's best-placed rider in joint 14th, with Stockdale tied 16th. The individual final is due to start on Thursday.
(As reported by the BBC website)
