In-form Mark Todd is relying on his mount's prowess in heavy conditions to chase victory in the Kentucky three-day equestrian event which begins tomorrow morning (NZt).
The four-star event, held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, is the second leg of the world Classics series.
Todd, who last weekend
became the oldest winner of Badminton at age 55, will be riding NZB Grass Valley in the hunt for the winner's purse of US$150,000 ($187,000).
Also in the field will be New Zealand Olympian Joe Myer who will on Snip.
Todd, who was jetting to the United States within hours of winning Badminton, said today the cross country course, designed by American Derek di Grazia looked "fair".
"It's changed a fair bit from last year but the other challenge is the rain - they have had so much rain and this morning we had a tornado warning," he said from Lexington.
"I couldn't get out of the hotel and all the horses were evacuated to the indoor school."
He was sure his 11-year-old horse's Irish ancestry would stand him in good stead in the mud against a 45-strong field, featuring riders from five nations - most are from host country USA, with seven from Canada, six from Britain and two each from New Zealand and Australia.
NZB Grass Valley was also his mount when New Zealand won the teams bronze medal at last year's world games at the same venue.
"He doesn't mind the wet at all - he's Irish. He's a real workman - a good honest trier."
Todd is picking they'll be a little off the pace in the dressage but feels that the bay has improved quite a bit since his world games outing.
The cross country will be on Sunday and showjumping on Monday (NZ Time).
- NZPA
