Double Olympic champion Michael Jung of Germany continued his impressive run of form as he topped the dressage standings ©FEI

Double Olympic champion Michael Jung of Germany continued his impressive run of form as he topped the dressage standings on the opening day of the Badminton Horse Trials in England.

Jung, individual gold medallist, as well as being a member of the victorious German contingent in the team competition at London 2012, came into the latest event on the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) Classics calendar having triumphed at the third leg in Kentucky on Sunday (May 1).

He again showed excellent poise on board horse La Biosthetique Sam FBW, finishing with a total of 34.4 penalties to head the leaderboard after day one at Badminton Park.

Jung, whose routine was greeted with warm applause by the healthy crowd at the venue, was rewarded with nines for his riding by the Grand Jury and managed to edge team-mate Andreas Ostholt, riding So Is Et, who currently sits in second place on 38.2 penalties.

"Sam was really good,” said Jung of the 16-year-old gelding that has given him Olympic, world and European titles.

“Before today, I felt he was quite nervous and that I hadn’t done enough work with him, but in the end he was very relaxed.

"I must thank all the people who have been looking after him while I was ‘on holiday’ in Kentucky.”

The top three was rounded off by Francis Whittington as the home rider made full use of being the last to take to the course, scoring 40.0 penalties on board Hasty Imp.

Britain's Francis Whittington currently sits in third place on the leaderboard following the opening dressage round
Britain's Francis Whittington currently sits in third place on the leaderboard following the opening dressage round ©Getty Images

"The horse has to work hard at this level and I am going to focus on one thing at a time," the Briton said.

"The main thing is that I need to concentrate [in Saturday’s Cross Country] and ride forward.

"I’ve changed my mindset following a great conversation with Joseph Murphy in Ballindenisk recently.

"It’s cleared my mind and reminded me why I do this - for the fun of it.

"I’ve been here before [well placed after Dressage] and know it can all change overnight so I’m just going to enjoy the moment.”

A pair of New Zealanders follow the top three as Clarke Johnstone, riding Balmoral Sensation, is fourth with a mark of 40.8 penalties.

Compatriot Jesse Campbell, who is making his maiden appearance at the Badminton Horse Trials, lies in fifth position after amassing 41.1 penalties on board Kaapachino.

The event at Badminton Park is due to continue tomorrow.