Rolex Predictions, revised

So I wrote a draft for my Rolex predictions, but it was a few weeks ago and three of my favorites withdrew for various reasons. Since it's gearing up tomorrow and the jogs are today, I feel a bit more secure in declaring my favorites to win.

I spent an enormous amount of time writing the other draft, so I'm going to keep this one simple.

My predicted winner: William Fox Pitt & Seacookie (I also entered them as my guess for EN's contest) *Granted WFP seems like a gimme, but this is high-stakes for him as he's going for the Grand Slam. While I'm certain he could ride a giraffe around the course, I'm eager to see them go. I'm expecting a really good score in dressage, likely finishing on that for a top 5 finish for sure.

Other combinations in the top 5:

Peter Atkins & Henry Jota Hampton: First of all, I adore this pair. How many **** horses do you know that can tote a 4 year old kid around a lead line class? Peter has had a string of really bad luck over the last few years and I would love to see all of their hard work find them in the top 5. I think they'll be in the middle of the pack after dressage (maybe closer to the top than bottom) but they'll go well around XC, fighting for the leader board on Sunday.

James Alliston & Parker: I really like Alliston's riding style and his approach to his new business (he's focusing his attention on breeding and training quality stock in the US). They had a rough go around last year falling at the 2nd fence XC, but I picture them looking for redemption this time around. *Bonus points for being an OTTB.

Jennie Brannigan & Cambalda: I believe this is Jennie's first trip to Rolex (and possibly her first ****), but they've had a great Spring season so far. I think they'll be at the top of the leader board after dressage, and will fight hard to keep their place over the weekend. There's no question that this horse can jump, and Jennie is a consummate professional. I'm keeping my fingers and toes crossed for them!

Becky Holder & Can't Fire Me: I love this horse, not to mention he looks like a chip off the old Courageous Comet block! Last year they were in the middle/top of the pack after dressage and unfortunately were forced to pull up two fences from home on XC with a teeny, tiny knee scratch. A really unfortunate set of circumstances for them and although it was clear the scratch was very superficial, when you're riding a grey horse on television, these little things can get blown out of proportion. Again, I see this pair looking for redemption. *Another OTTB!

Can't wait to follow along online (live!) and watch everyone go. Only wishing I was there... someday!