Thumbs up for Olympics eventing venue

The 2012 London Olympics equestrian eventing venue at Greenwich has got the thumbs-up from New Zealand riders.

Double Olympic gold medallist Mark Todd was the best of the New Zealand trio of riders, finishing 15th on NZB Campino in the test event which ended this morning (NZt).

Andrew Nicholson and Viscount George finished 17th with Clarke Johnstone and Incognito 25th.

"What an amazing venue I think it will be made to work really well for next year. The organisers are keen to take on comments to make it a fantastic games," Todd said.

All three of the Kiwi eventers were clear of jumping penalties over the tight and hilly cross country course, with Todd one of just seven combinations to go on to double clear in the showjumping.

Nicholson was also happy with the test venue.

"It is impressive and very different to what we are used to," he said.

"It will definitely be an exciting cross country at the games."

Honours went to Britain's Piggy French aboard DHI Topper.

Second was current world champion Michael Jung of Germany on River of Joy.

The next big competition for the New Zealand eventers will be the Aachen International Festival in Germany in a couple of weeks.

- NZPA