Having pushed Australia up to sixth in the eventing teams following the dressage program, eight-time Olympian Andrew Hoy is feeling optimistic heading into the cross country element at the Tokyo Games.
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Hoy, who has three gold medals to his name, had a score of 29.60 penalty points to be 13th in the individual competition at the conclusion of the dressage element.
German Michael Jung holds the overall individual lead with 21.10 penalty points.
But Great Britain head the team standings on 78.30 points, Germany second on 80.40 and New Zealand third on 86.40.
Australia, who were tenth in the teams after Shane Rose and Kevin McNabb rode on Friday, are now sixth on 93.40 points.
"I think with where I've come from with (his horse) Vassily de Lassos and his dressage, I believe it's the maximum that we could have had from today," Hoy said.
"There were tiny little things that I can always improve. But the joy that I get riding this horse is just unbelievable.
"I always use one word to describe what I'm trying to achieve: that word is harmony. And that's what I'm working towards.
"Doesn't matter whether it's the dressage, the cross-country, or the showjumping."
The eventing contest now moves on to the cross country on Sunday, and will conclude with the jumping on Monday.
"I think it's a very good course. The ground is fantastic, fences are beautiful ...it's a proper challenge," Hoy said.
"I'm sitting on one of the great cross-country horses of the world. And we've got a wonderful relationship. I believe it's achievable. Time will tell."
Australian Associated Press