Germany was the top-ranked team on 158 penalty points with Australia second on 162 and Britain third on 173.70 after Monday's Cross-Country leg of the equestrian eventing competition at Beas River Equestrian Venue in Hong Kong.

Frank Ostholt, a rider from German team, told reporters after the cross country competition, that he was very satisfied with his horse Mr. Medicott's performance today.

"He looks out for the red and white flags at the fences and just watches to stay between them. A thriller and I am most happy with him, being only so young, but always keen to go."

Only the lowest three penalty scores from each team contribute to the team total, which is then carried forward. The top three teams are closely ranked, with only 15.70 penalty points between the first and third positions.

On Monday, 69 riders tried to ride a course with 39 jumps over 4,560 meters. Eight riders were eliminated and one withdrew from the competition.

Chinese rider Hua Tian, who saddled with hopes of the host nation at Beijing Olympic Games, was eliminated after falling from his horse while trying to clear hurdles during the cross country phase of the Olympic eventing Monday morning. Both Hua and his horse Chico were not injured.

In an interview with reporters after Hua Tian fell from his horse, his Australian coach Clayton Fredericks said, "You can't take anything away from him. He's going to be a real star in the future. He qualified four horses which I think most riders here haven't had a chance to do."

According to the new rules, Hua was disqualified after falling.

(Xinhua News Agency August 11, 2008)