Michael Jung happy with Sam FBW as duo try out equestrian venue for first time
'Today it is all about getting back into the rhythm,' says German national team coach Hans Melzer
Michael Jung and Sam FBW won double gold for Germany in individual and team eventing at London 2012 and will ride together at Rio 2016 (Photo: Getty Images/Alex Livesey)
Sam FBW is ready to play it again as rider Michael Jung bids for another equestrian medal haul at Rio 2016.
The 16-year-old gelding “is in good form,” said Jung during Germany’s first outing at the Olympic Equestrian Centre on 1 August.
Together the pair won double gold for Germany in individual and team eventing at London 2012.
“He came in tip-top shape off the plane,” said Jung, who returns with the bay German Sporthorse after his original choice, European champion Takinou, was forced to stay home because of an infection.
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Relaxed flatwork was on the agenda for Sam FBW and Jung, along with compatriots Sandra Auffarth on Opgun Louvo, Ingrid Klimke on Hale-Bob Old and Andreas Ostholt on So Is Et.
Germany’s coach Hans Melzer outlined the team's programme for the upcoming days.
"Today it is all about getting back into the rhythm," he said. "Every day we'll do a little more. The horses are all fit but we don't want to jump-start them after the long journey. We are still four days away from competition."
The eventing competition begins on 6 August with the dressage phase after the ground jury has inspected the horses' fitness the previous day.
