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Out: Lucinda Fredericks in jumping action

Last year's Badminton winner Lucinda Fredericks is taking a calculated gamble by not entering the horse trials this weekend.

Lucinda, from Little Cheverell, has put her Olympic hopes first by not competing with Headingly Britannia as she looks ahead to August's Games in Beijing.

Husband Clayton, who will ride Nullabor at the three day event, says his wife's place is pretty much assured and they do not want to risk the horse.

"We have had to make a judgement call about how to prepare the horse for the Olympics," said the 40-year-old Australian.

"The selection for the team has not been decided but after winning two four star tournaments she should be in."

Both husband and wife are hopeful of representing Australia in the Olympics.

advertisement But to make his mark with the selection team, Clayton Fredericks must do well at Badminton.

And, with Olympic hopefuls like his wife not at Badminton, Fredericks believe he could have a good chance of the title and the £278,000 prize money.

Lucinda Fredericks

He said: "Some of the Olympic hopefuls have held back so it is a really good opportunity to get out there and to have a go.

"I have got a good chance and a pretty good horse but eventing is a difficult sport and you need a bit of luck as well, especially in the cross country stage."

Clayton finished 22nd at last year's Badminton on WP in Limbo.

10:35am Thursday 1st May 2008

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