What a day! Our jumpers showed they can foot it with the best and notched the best-ever first day WEG result. The buzz in the camp is palpable and the bond between these four – Sam McIntosh, Daniel Meech, Sharn Wordley and Bruce Goodin – is clear to see.

Each was so happy with the efforts of their horse in scorching conditions. It was a big and tough track with a very delicate double in the middle that caused all sorts of problems.

They have already done us all so proud.

There’s a huge contingent of Kiwis here to support them too which they appreciate and enjoy.

It is such a treat to watch the best jumpers in the world go head to head. The weather is a far cry from last week – it’s a gorgeous 31+ degrees . . . ok, it is a bit tough when you are sitting in the shade-free stands but just to be warm is a bonus for those of us from a winter climate!

By NZ team media liaison Diana Dobson

Photos by Libby Law Photography