Horinger-based Caroline Powell has set herself up well after completing the One Star dressage phase on the tongue-twistingly named Stracathro Solitary Mistral at the Saracen Horse Feeds Houghton International Horse Trials.
The New Zealander lies in sixth place overnight, less than three penalties behind the current leaders, Yoshiaki Oiwa from Japan riding Chantelle.
Just 0.2 of a penalty behind Powell is Katherine Cross from Ixworth, riding Romeo Z.
In the Two Star, Emily Lochore, wife of event organiser Alec, leads the local charge riding Hexmaleys Hayday, although the leaderboard could yet be shaken up on Friday when the final competitors perform their tests.
The current Two Star leaders are Will Furlong and Adele 97 – Furlong has a great record at Houghton having twice won the National Under 21 title, and would not be one to bet against.
There is a new site layout this year, due to the Richard Long exhibition at the Hall, but as ever world class athletes are competing and this year we have glorious sunshine - perfect for picnicing in the deer park.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here