The rain and wind just got worse as the afternoon wore on, but Missy Ransehousen didn’t seem to notice the weather as she and Critical Decision cantered into the lead (47.8) on April 26 in the Rolex Kentucky CCI****.

The pair showed lovely extended trots, and all but one of the lead changes were quiet and accurate.  Critical Decision also showed a little tension before his canter depart, but overall it was a flowing, elastic test.

Ransehousen, of Unionville, Pa., appeared thrilled after her test, showering her 11-year-old Thoroughbred cross with praise.  “My horse was quite good,” she said.  “Normally, rain is not the best condition because of the sloppy footing, and he’s resistant to the rein.  I got a little lucky.”

Neither Ransehousen nor Critical Decision has competed at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day since the event became a four-star.

Kristen Bachman and Gryffindor slipped into second place (48.2) ahead of Phillip Dutton and Connaught, who rode in the morning.  Bachman had a steady test with a small mistake in her last flying change.

This is Bachman’s second time at Rolex Kentucky.  “I’m a little more comfortable this year,” she said.  “I’m more at ease and organized, which is nice.  Last year my eyes were popping out wondering what I was doing here.  This year I don’t wonder what I’m doing.  [The cross-country] looks like fun.”

Dutton was pleased with the rideability of Connaught.  “The worst part is the wind,” he said.  “A horse in its natural state will turn away from the wind.  You’re hoping all that training will pay off and he’ll remember everything you taught him.”

Dutton also shared his opinion on the cross-country course.  “It’s a really big, strong riding course,” he said.  “It’s not super technical, but the telling part is that every jump, bar three or four, is max height and width.  That takes it out of your horse, and there’s not much room for forgiveness.  It will require a good, forward positive ride and confident horses.”

Tiana Coudray, 19, was riding in her first Rolex Kentucky with King Street.  She grabbed fourth place on Thursday afternoon, even though the weather was at its worst during her test with high winds gusting around her.  The big grin and pat for her horse upon finishing showed that this Californian teenager was taking the time to enjoy her first four-star.

Tomorrow, 22 more riders will enter the dressage arena to finish up the first phase of the event.  Dutton has another ride on Truluck, and the Brits and Aussies will take to the field, as well as Will Faudree, Amy Tryon, Bruce Davidson, Heidi White Carty and a second ride for Karen O’Connor.