Pippa Funnell called up to team in Rio

Pippa Funnell has been called up to the eventing team for Rio after one of the selected horses incurred an injury.

Replacement

Pippa had originally been named as travelling reserve with her ride Billy The Biz. However, an injury to Izzy Taylor’s horse Allercombe Ellie means that Izzy will not be able to compete in Rio.

Pippa now lines up alongside teammates William Fox-Pitt (Chilli Morning), Kitty King (Ceylor L A N) and Gemma Tattersall (Quicklook V).

Tina Cook and Billy The Red are the new travelling reserves.

Gutted

Izzy Taylor, who was due to make her Olympic debut in Rio, is understandably disappointed. “I’m really gutted and sorry for the owners and my support team. I wish Pip and all the team the best of luck out in Rio,” she said.

Pippa Funnell said: “Firstly I’m absolutely devastated for Izzy, I know how much work it takes for everyone involved to get the horse to this level. From a personal point of view, I just feel so very privileged and honoured to be part of the team and I’m just delighted for all my connections who have helped me to get to this stage. It’s our first home-bred horse to be going to a Games.”