LUCINDA Fredericks put herself in line to join husband Clayton Fredericks on the 2012 Australian Olympic eventing team, after a fine performance at the Luhmuhlen CCI**** event in Germany at the weekend.

The Little Cheverell-based couple were on the Australian team that took silver in the Olympic three-day event four years ago and Clayton’s place seems assured, injury permitting, after a fine few months.

Since her Beijing ride and four-star partner Headley Britannia retired this year, British-born Fredericks’ hopes have been pinned on the largely-unproven Flying Finish.

The 10-year-old, who was discovered working in a German riding school and only took up eventing two years ago, was a real outsider just a few weeks ago.

But that changed as he galloped into second place and the Australian selectors’ radar at Luhmuhlen.

The pair led the three-day event after the opening dressage, a phase Fredericks has excelled at regularly over the years.

She was just over a mark ahead of the all-conquering German rider Michael Jung, current world and European champion and a favourite for the Olympic individual title.

“I was amazed to beat Michael Jung (in dressage),” said Fredericks. “But when I watched a video of our dressage performance I felt my horse deserved the mark as it was a lovely test.”

Facing his first-ever four-star cross-country course, Flying Finish came home clear with just a few time penalties that left him fourth.

“It was fantastic when you remember Christi (Flying Finish) has only been eventing for two years, but he seems to find it easy,” added Fredericks.

“I feel such respect for him - he tries so hard and just wants to do right for me.”

The tricky final show jumping phase saw now-leader Jung hold onto the top spot, but second and third placed riders Andrew Hoy – based at Badbury near Swindon – and Britain’s Oliver Townend had three fences down apiece to move down the order.

Flying Finish jumped another great clear, with just two time penalties, to grab second place.

“It would be a fairytale if Clayton and I were both to go to the Olympics again after 2008,” said Fredericks.

“Luhmuhlen was fantastic and we will have to hope the selectors were impressed. Christi – the first gelding I’ve ridden at four star level for 10 years rather than mares – now has lots of new fans and I’m delighted for the owner and our team.

“He’s finished happy, sound and I hope he realises just how special he is.”

The Australian eventing team for London is expected to be announced tomorrow (Friday).

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