Oliver Townend says he is “more hungry than ever” for success ahead of his biggest equestrian challenge – the Rolex Grand Slam.

The Shropshire-based eventing star is in Lexington, USA after a marathon 51-hour journey of trains, planes and a £1,600 taxi ride from Paris to Madrid.

Ahead of him at Kentucky Horse Park – venue for the 2010 World Equestrian Games in September – are four days of competition that could define his career.

After winning Badminton and Burghley last year, Duddleston Heath based Townend now targets Grand Slam glory and a £230,000 jackpot.

The feat of landing three consecutive four-star event titles is so rare that it has only been achieved once before, by Townend’s fellow Briton Pippa Funnell on Primmore’s Pride in 2003.

In addition to his Badminton and Burghley triumphs, the past 18 months saw Townend crowned the inaugural £100,000 Express Eventing winner, while he is also reigning HSBC Classics champion.

A Grand Slam would top everything though, which explains 27-year-old Townend’s astonishing determination – and ultimately, achievement – in even getting to America amid the volcanic cloud-induced air travel chaos.

His epic adventure took in Crewe, London, Paris, Madrid, Miami, Atlanta and finally Lexington before he could be reunited with the two horses who had travelled a week ahead of him – Ashdale Cruise Master and ODT Master Rose.

Townend, who would scoop an additional £50,000 if he wins the event, enters the dressage arena with Master Rose tomorrow afternoon UK time, while Ashdale’s test is five hours later before Saturday’s cross-country, followed by the showjumping finale on Sunday.

“All my focus is on winning the competition and riding the best I can,” Townend said.

“The money is fantastic – I won’t lie – but at the same time, there is no money if I don’t win the competition.”