The opener featured 19 of the 37 teams from 16 countries performing the dressage test.

Webster, a 17-time national champion, leads the way after earning 74.125 per cent from the international judges which translated to 41.52 points.

He was followed close behind by German Anna Sandman on 42.52 thanks to her performance that garnered 73.500 per cent from the officials.

Her compatriot Georg von Stein currently occupies third place on 49.44 which was converted from his 69.167 per cent routine.

In the team category, Belgium is the only country to have presented two competitors so far.

They lie in second place from Dries Degriek's score of 51.51 points while Germany are out in front from von Stein's score of 49.44.

The Netherlands then sit in third after Koos De Ronde picked up 54.24 points.

France and Hungary are eager to get on the podium as well.

At present, Sebastien Vincent’s score of 62.23 has France in fourth while József Dobrovitz of Hungary scored 63.63, to leave them in fifth place.

The action is set to continue tomorrow with some of the world's top driving athletes ready to compete.

Reigning European champion Bram Chardon of The Netherlands will be taking to the dressage ring and so will his father Ijsbrand.

Five-time champion Boyd Exell of Australia is also set to feature as he aims for top spot in the second half of the dressage tournament.