Europe’s top riders provide a rare sneak preview before they descend on the prestigious equestrian venue in historic Fontainebleau, France for the 2009 HSBC FEI European Eventing Championship. Reigning individual gold medallist Nicholas Touzaint from France and the event’s most successful medallist William Fox-Pitt of Great Britain will be among riders from 18-countries that are taking part in the four-day dressage, cross-country and jumping event. Held biennially since 1953, the European Championship has been dominated by Great Britain with the nation winning 20-team and 17-individual gold medals. Despite this dominance, reigning Olympic and World Champions from Germany are seen as strong favourites despite not winning a team gold in this competition for 40-years.