Latest from Horse & Hound in Georgie-campbell

‘A real love for his horses’: first rider benefits from foundation set up in Georgie Campbell’s memory

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 19 May 2026 15:56:03 +0000

The first beneficiary of the Georgie Campbell Foundation is a rider with a “strong work ethic, positive mindset, and real love for his horses and eventing”.

The charity, set up in memory of five-star rider Georgie, has announced that 25-year-old Wiltshire-based Ollie Thompson has been selected, from more than 60 applicants, to be the first rider to benefit.

“I’m excited and grateful to have been selected,” said Ollie, who has competed up to four-star level with his top ride Lagans Rice Star. “It’s such an amazing opportunity for me to grow my business and be able to reach my full potential.

“I’m keen to start learning from everyone involved, pushing myself this season and next, and making the most of all the support and opportunities ahead. I would like to thank the committee, and all involved for putting their faith in me moving forward.”

The foundation was set up to “give back to the sport Georgie loved”. As well as working to improve safety in eventing, it aims to provide the support that would have helped the young Georgie set up her business.

Picture by Emily Scotney Photography (Image credit: Emily Scotney Photography)

For the rest of this season and all next, Ollie will benefit from tailored bursary support, mentoring and training, from the foundation and specialists. The aim is to support his development individually and in his business, including planning, managing finances and staff, attracting and retaining owners and sponsors, social media and identifying and working with talented young horses.

Of the initial applicants, eight were invited to be interviewed by a panel including Georgie’s husband Jesse Campbell and Jonelle Price.

“He demonstrates a lot of the attributes that we felt were in line with ‘a young Georgie’,” the panel said. “Ollie Thompson conveyed a strong work ethic, positive mindset and real love for his horses and the sport of eventing.

“We therefore think he makes the perfect first Georgie Campbell Foundation beneficiary and are looking forward to seeing his journey unfold with the foundation’s support.”

The foundation thanked all those who applied and have offered to support the programme. Anyone interested in applying or re-applying can follow the foundation on social media for news on the next application window.

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Time to give back to the sport Georgie Campbell loved as support scheme applications open

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 10:13:02 +0000

Applications are open for the first beneficiary of the trust set up in Georgie Campbell’s name, as it is “time to give back to the sport she loved”.

The Georgie Campbell Foundation, created in memory of the five-star event rider who suffered a fatal cross-country fall last year, is inviting riders to apply to become its first beneficiary.

The successful applicant will have to show their “requirement for support, ambition to progress and alignment with Georgie and the foundation’s core values of loving horses and the eventing community, determination, resilience and kindness”.

The two-year bursary includes one-to-one mentoring, training and business support tailored to the rider.

“We set up the foundation to give back to the sport Georgie loved,” said Georgie’s husband Jesse Campbell. “In addition to working to improve cross-country safety, we will provide the help that would have made it easier for young Georgie to set up her eventing business.

“The first beneficiary is going to be incredibly well supported as on top of the resources and network we are building, we’ve received some fantastic pledges of support; from Cooley Farm’s Richard Sheane, Equestrian Employers, horse feed, supplement and product companies and more.”

There will be opportunities for individuals to support the beneficiary programme at Defender Burghley Horse Trials (4-7 September), including a prize draw, auction and course-walk, as well as cross-country preview evening featuring panellists Jesse, Tom McEwen and assistant Burghley course-designer Andrew Heffernan. Tickets are available online.

To apply for the bursary, riders must be registered with British Eventing, have competed to three-star level and have an early-stage eventing business. The application form is on the foundation’s website and the closing date is 30 September.

Applications are open to riders of all nationalities but preference will be given to those who have not had substantial financial support or benefited from schemes such as the World Class programme.

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(Image credit: Libby Law Photography)

A magical day as amateur takes Badminton horse round 90cm, with five-star eventer on her 15hh cob

(Image credit: Libby Law Photography)

Initiatives keep Georgie Campbell’s memory alive – and give back to the sport she loved

(Image credit: Libby Law Photography)

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A magical day as amateur takes Badminton horse round 90cm, with five-star eventer on her 15hh cob

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 11:53:38 +0000

A five-star event horse and rider and an amateur with a “little black cob” who swapped rides for a 90cm pairs hunter trial won their class – and raised over £2,000 in the process.

H&H reported that Fiona Kashel’s good friend Lynn Roberts was to take Fiona’s Badminton ride Creevagh Silver De Haar (Hero) to Munstead on 12 July, and Fiona Lynn’s 15hh Robbie Cob, in aid of the Georgie Campbell Foundation.

“It was the most amazing day,” Lynn told H&H. “Lots of people turned up, and were cheering us – and I felt like I was riding round Badminton. Robbie’s little legs had to try to keep up with Hero, who was cruising, but it was a lovely day.”

The riders were decked out in Georgie’s purple cross-country colours, thanks to tack shop Chobham Rider, and the last fence was bedecked with purple flowers.

Lynn said it was a fantastic experience riding 17-year-old Hero.

“Fiona said he’d look after me; we were springing along, but he didn’t over-jump so I wasn’t catapulted,” she said. “He did pull a shoe off; I think because the ditch was so small, he didn’t see it! But we were nearly home and he was fine.

Picture by Britta Stent (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“At one point, Fiona had to call to say ‘Slow down’ because Robbie couldn’t keep up; I’d felt we were just floating along. It was fabulous, he’s the most amazing horse. I said ‘Can’t I have him to do some 90s on?’!”

Lynn added that when Fiona next schooled Hero, she said, the horse went very well.

“So I didn’t ruin him, which is great – I think I’ve improved him and she’ll ask me to ride him before all the big events now!” she said.

“Fiona found it hard to see a stride on Robbie because he’s so bouncy, but she said in the end, she just went flat out, and I think she enjoyed it, and we’d aimed to raise £2,000, but got to about £2,500 including cash on the day, which was fantastic.

“I don’t know what the next challenge will be – maybe a dressage swap, that would be hilarious – but it was a day for the memory banks because it was so magical.”

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‘I hope I don’t fall off!’ Badminton rider lends top horse to her friend for 90cm pairs – and takes the ride on her ‘little black cob’

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 31 May 2025 16:41:27 +0000

A horse and rider who jumped clear across country at Badminton are taking on a 90cm hunter trials pairs class – but not together.

Fiona Kashel’s good friend Lynn Roberts is to take the reins of Fiona’s veteran five-star ride Creevagh Silver De Haar (Hero), and Fiona will ride Lynn’s 15hh Robbie Cob, at Munstead on 12 July. The pair have already raised nearly £600 of their £1,000 fundraising target for the Georgie Campbell Foundation.

Dealer Lynn and Fiona, whose yards are close together and who have known each other over 12 years, both told H&H the idea started as banter between friends.

“Fiona was teasing me, saying ‘You could ride Hero round a hunter trial and I’ll ride your cob’,” Lynn said. “I’m 60 this year and a bit of a wuss, and I thought she was joking, but she wasn’t. So I’ve stepped up to do this – and I’m literally bricking myself!”

The fundraising page is open now

Lynn said she has evented in the past.

“But I’m not very good at it,” she said. “My last event, I got eliminated in the showjumping and said I wasn’t doing it again. So I whizz round on my little black cob and we have a lovely time. We did try dressage and it didn’t go down well; cross-country is my thing and his thing, and I love him to bits.

Picture by Brita Stent (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Fiona will hopefully let me ride Hero beforehand – I said she’d given him a tune-up round Badminton so he should be all right – but I don’t think she should ride the cob first, I think that’s fair enough!

“I wanted to do the 80cm but Fiona said the 90cm so hang on to your hats!” she added. “I rose to the challenge and will put my brave pants on; I used to be brave so I’m sure it will come back.”

Lynn said she and Fiona hope to find cross-country shirts in purple so they can ride in the colours, as well as the memory, of Georgie Campbell, the eventer who died after a cross-country fall a year ago. The foundation set up in her memory aims to improve safety in the sport and support young riders. Fiona knew Georgie, having competed alongside her, and Lynn also met her.

“We thought this would be fitting,” Lynn said.

Fiona Kashel riding Creevagh Silver de Haar for GREAT BRITAIN during the cross country phase of the Badminton Horse Trails presented by Mars Equestrian, held at Badminton House in the village of Badminton near Malmesbury in Gloucestershire in the UK, on the 7th May 2021 (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Fiona told H&H Hero is “so straightforward and lovely”, and will look after Lynn.

“I just hope I don’t fall off the cob; the pressure is going to be unreal!” she said. “She’d better let me have a practice – I haven’t ridden a cob for a while; I think I will probably be more nervous about this than about Badminton!”

She added that she hopes to surpass their fundraising target in memory of Georgie, whom she had known for years.

“A couple of days after we put the fundraising page up it had raised over £500, which is amazing,” she said. “We thought it was good timing to do something for Georgie’s foundation, and wanted to do something close to her heart.”

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New jewellery ‘to raise vital funds’ in memory of event rider Georgie Campbell

Lucy Elder — Tue, 06 May 2025 14:39:56 +0000

New jewellery designs created in memory of event rider Georgie Campbell have been launched ahead of Mars Badminton Horse Trials (7 to 11 May).

Hiho Silver and Coco & Jane Loves, which worked with the Georgie Campbell Foundation in the build up to Christmas last year, have both created new pieces in time for Badminton.

The foundation, which aims to support eventing’s future by improving safety and assisting early stage eventing businesses in memory of Georgie, said that the designs are in response to customer requests and following strong Christmas sales.

“Developed in conjunction with the Georgie Campbell Foundation, the new pieces provide a fresh way to remember Georgie and raise vital funds for the foundation that has been set up to champion the sustainable future of the sport Georgie loved,” stated the announcement.

Hiho Silver’s Twig Collection, inspired by Georgie’s beloved dog and designed as a replica of a hornbeam twig from a tree at her family home, features eight new pieces in addition to the existing sterling silver necklace and cufflinks.

These include a Twig stock pin, available in sterling silver (£65, with £18 going to the foundation) and 18ct gold vermeil and sterling silver (£85, with £24 to the foundation).

The new stockpin in Hiho Silver’s Twig collection. (Image credit: Rachel Collins)

There is also a new pendant necklace (sterling silver: £55, with £30 to the foundation; 18ct gold vermeil and sterling silver: £85, with 19 to the foundation), plus a selection of bracelets from £25 to £130 – all with a significant amount per purchase going to the foundation.

Hiho Silver’s Twig pendant necklace. (Image credit: Rachel Collins)

Three of Hiho Silver’s bracelets in the collection, worn as a stack. (Image credit: Rachel Collins)

Coco & Jane Loves has launched four pieces in its new pearl collection, which features purple accents – a nod to Georgie’s purple and white cross-country colours. These are in addition to the brand’s original enamel zig zag bracelet in Georgie’s colours.

Every pearl in the collection is strung with purple thread, hand-knotted between each.

The Coco & Jane Loves collection features Georgie’s freshwater pearl bracelet (£55, with £37.50 to the foundation) and co-ordinating necklace (£75, with £50 to the foundation). It also includes Georgie’s freshwater pearl and zig-zag alloy anklet (£48, with £30.50 to the foundation, and Georgie’s freshwater pearl and zig-zag wrist-loop phone charm (£48, with £30.50 to the foundation).

The pearl necklace and bracelet, pictured with the zig zag bracelet, by Coco & Jane Loves. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The Coco & Jane Loves phone charm and anklet. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Jo Williams, Georgie’s older sister and Georgie Campbell Foundation trustee, said: “Spotting purple, white, and Twig shaped mementos on wrists and necks means so much.

“We are hugely thankful to the staggering volume of people who have purchased pieces of ‘Georgie jewellery’ so far and hope people love the new items to help the foundation give back to the sport Georgie loved.”

Hiho Silver’s entire Twig Collection will be available on the Hiho Silver stand (number 186, Deer Park Drive) at Badminton this week. It is also available to order and pre-order (new items shipped on 7 May) at https://www.hihosilver.co.uk/298-twig-collection

All Coco & Jane Loves Georgie Campbell Foundation Collection pieces are available to order at https://www.cocoandjaneloves.com/collections/georgie-campbell-foundation-collection

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Lessons with Olympic riders and more up for grabs to benefit Georgie Campbell Foundation

Pippa Roome — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:54:17 +0000

There are four days left to enter the Georgie Campbell Foundation prize draw for items such as lessons with leading riders and membership tickets to the British five-stars, while helping to raise money for a programme set up in memory of the event rider.

British five-star rider Georgie Campbell died in a fall at Bicton Horse Trials on 26 May last year, aged 36. The Georgie Campbell Foundation, set up by a group of people who love and deeply miss Georgie, will support early-stage event riders in establishing and running their businesses through tailored mentorship, training and grants in areas including financial management and attracting and retaining staff, owners and sponsors. The foundation also seeks to help improve safety in eventing.

The Georgie Campbell Foundation prize draw is open until Sunday (23 February) at 10pm and tickets cost £5 – entrants can buy more than one ticket to up their chances of winning. So far the draw has raised over £4,600, of a £5,000 stretch target.

Enter the draw

The 24 prizes include membership for two at Badminton Horse Trials and Burghley Horse Trials and lessons with riders including double Olympic gold medallists Laura Collett and Tom McEwen and European medallist Kitty King. Other offerings include family tickets to Bolesworth International and the Hickstead Derby meeting.

A behind-the-scenes experience at a one-day event with Harry Meade, five entries to Cotswold Cup qualifiers for one person and a morning on the gallops and breakfast with trainer Ben Pauling for four people are also on offer.

There are also some items available to win with personal links to Georgie – a twig necklace and cuff links from Hiho Silver, from a collection in memory of Georgie, and a purple Point Two ProAir vest and white base layer – purple and white were Georgie’s cross-country colours.

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Initiatives keep Georgie Campbell’s memory alive – and give back to the sport she loved

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 19:51:12 +0000

The process of setting up a foundation and creating jewellery to support it are helping keep eventer Georgie Campbell’s memory alive – and giving back to the sport she loved.

The five-star rider lost her life in a cross-country fall in May and H&H reported last month that her family and friends had set up the Georgie Campbell Foundation.

The aim is to support up-and-coming riders, with bursaries and mentoring, and two jewellery brands have now united with the charity.

“Two iconic jewellery brands have joined forces with the Georgie Campbell Foundation to launch their own signature jewellery lines in time for Christmas,” a spokesperson for the foundation said.

“Hiho Silver and Coco & Jane Loves have worked closely with Georgie’s family to create unique pieces of jewellery to keep Georgie’s memory alive and raise vital funds for the newly formed foundation.”

The Hiho Silver Twig collection was inspired by Georgie’s much-loved terrier Twig.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“As Twig reached his twilight years Georgie had begun to fear losing him and so had started planning a tattoo for herself in the shape of a small branch, so that she would never be without her Twig,” the spokesperson said.

“Moved by this story and keen to draw on it for inspiration, Hiho Silver’s master craftsmen set about replicating a twig from a hornbeam (fairy) tree that stood in Georgie’s family home in Kent to create the first two pieces in the collection.”

The sterling silver Twig necklace is on sale for £65 and cufflinks for £95, from which £36 and £54 respectively will go the foundation.

Both are available to order and will arrive by Christmas.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Coco & Jane Loves has created a zig-zag bracelet in Georgie’s signature purple and white cross-country colours.

“This gorgeous enamel and silver tone alloy tile bracelet is a wonderful memento that also makes an ideal stocking filler,” the spokesperson said. “It has an adjustable circumference to fit any wrist size and is suitable for both women and men.”

The bracelet costs £35, £25 of which goes to the Georgie Campbell Foundation.

Jo Williams, Georgie’s older sister, said: “I love wearing my Georgie jewellery every day and the process of creating it and setting up the foundation provides a positive channel for our pain and helps to keep Georgie’s memory alive.

“We hope the equestrian community and beyond will support the Georgie Campbell Foundation so that we can give back to the sport she loved for many years to come.”

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Georgie Campbell Foundation set up to help aspiring riders ‘fulfil their dreams’

Becky Murray — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 12:00:37 +0000

A foundation to help aspiring young eventers to “fulfil their dreams” has been set up in memory of the late five-star rider Georgie Campbell.

Georgie died in a fall while competing at Bicton International on 26 May. The Georgie Campbell Foundation has been set up by a close-knit group of her family and supporters who “love and deeply miss her”.

The foundation aims to provide up-and-coming riders with the support to establish their own eventing business, and will provide a bursary and mentoring in all areas of the sport, including financial management, attracting and retaining staff, and owners and sponsors.

“Together with Georgie’s husband Jesse (Campbell), and my parents, Debbie and Ian (Strang), I wanted to set up a charitable foundation in Georgie’s name to give back to the sport that my sister loved, specifically by providing the sort of help that would have made it easier for a young Georgie to set up her eventing business,” said Jo Williams, Georgie’s sister.

“The foundation will also provide a positive channel for our pain and help to keep Georgie’s memory alive.

“We hope that the eventing community and beyond will support the Georgie Campbell Foundation so that we can pay it forward to aspiring young event riders for many years to come.”

Bracelets designed in Georgie’s purple and white cross-country colours will be sold to help raise money for the foundation. Bracelets can be bought here.

The foundation will also be supported by the South East Eventers League, as the not-for-profit organisation’s charity of choice at its awards and ball at High Rocks in Tunbridge Wells, on 16 November. Georgie was based near Tunbridge Wells and a “well-known and much-loved face on the southeast circuit”. Tickets for the ball have sold out, but a limited number of after dinner tickets are still available.

Follow the Georgie Campbell Foundation on Instagram.

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‘The horses give me drive and focus’: Burghley thrill for Jesse Campbell months after tragic loss of wife Georgie

Martha Terry — Sun, 08 Sep 2024 19:28:56 +0000

The whole eventing community has been rooting for Jesse Campbell as the New Zealander tackled his first Defender Burghley Horse Trials. Jesse’s wife Georgie lost her life in a fall in May, and as he completed the course clear on Saturday, he looked up and pointed to the sky with purple and white ribbons – her cross-country colours – fluttering on his body protector in Georgie’s memory.

In the final showjumping phase, Jesse’s ride Cooley Lafitte jumped a neat clear inside the time to secure a gigantic leap up the leaderboard from 61st after dressage to 21st.

“It’s a great way to cap off my first Burghley,” said Jesse. “It’s been a rollercoaster. Coming to a five-star is a challenge – and this year I’ve had plenty of challenges – and it’s a big one to overcome.”

“Big week” for Jesse Campbell on Burghley Horse Trials debut

This was Cooley Lafitte’s third five-star, having finished 15th at Badminton in the spring. They were almost at the bottom of the rankings after dressage, but this double clear put a smile on Jesse’s face.

“It’s been a big week, with lots of learnings and I’m just delighted with my horse, he tried really hard today,” said Jesse of the 12-year-old by Je T’Aime Flamenco after showjumping. “He’s been fairly troublesome all week, but today made up for it. He’s got it in him to be really competitive, but it’s a slow road.

“It’s the chicken-and-egg situation – do you prefer a really good dressage or to jump a double clear – but it’s always nice to finish the week on a positive. He has made up for the dressage with his jumping.”

Many riders were wearing purple and white ribbons at Burghley in memory of Georgie and in support of Jesse, who added that the “horses have given me focus”.

“I’m delighted to have purpose for sure,” he said. “Events like Badminton and Burghley get you up in the morning, but to be fair it’s not the events as such, but working with the horses trying to improve every day that gives us the drive and focus. Coming to beautiful places like this is the icing on the cake.”

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‘A beautiful person and a beautiful rider’: family and friends pay tribute to Georgie Campbell

Becky Murray — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 15:25:51 +0000

Eventer Georgie Campbell will be remembered for her smile, kindness, and talent by all those who knew her.

Georgie was born on 7 October 1987 and grew up on her parents Ian and Debbie Strang’s Little Scotney Farm, in Kent, with her older sister Jo and younger sister Bertie. Debbie ran a livery yard and taught, and Georgie started riding aged two.

Georgie’s competitive equestrian career began in showing aged six, riding for producers Chris Willett and Carol and Simone Gilbert-Scott at Horse of the Year Show and the Royal International Horse Show.

She was a much-loved member of the Romney Marsh branch of the Pony Club with her 12.2hh pony Mountpleasant Western Star (Star). She represented her branch on teams across the disciplines and competed at the Pony Club championships six times. In 2008 she won the Urky Newton bursary for the best cross-country round.

She attended Cranbrook Grammar School, then completed a sports science degree at Nottingham Trent University. During this time she based her horse Just A Mystery (Meggie) at Mark and Tanya Kyle’s yard, and she rode on the university’s equestrian team. She was on the team that won gold at the British Student Equestrian Championships in 2009, and in 2010 was part of Team GB at the World University Equestrian Championships in South Korea, where they won team silver in dressage.

After university Georgie moved back to Kent and set up business at Little Scotney Farm, where she was soon joined by her Patterdale terrier cross Twig. Georgie gained the ride on Master Monarch (Ben) in 2009, and in 2010 she made her five-star debut (then CCI4*) at Burghley. In 2014 Georgie was third at Boekelo with Cooley Business Time (Rio), and the following year the pair completed Burghley. She won the Osberton young horse title with Monbeg Odyssey (Oddie) in 2016, and she completed Pau five-star in 2017 and Badminton in 2018 with Cooley Earl (Earl). Georgie’s biggest victory came in 2022 when she won the Lignieres CCI4*-L in France with Global Quest (George).

Georgie met her husband, New Zealand eventer Jesse Campbell, through the sport, and the couple were based in Wiltshire. They married on 12 December 2020 in an intimate ceremony attended by close friends and later relocated to Little Scotney Farm, where they set up Team Campbell Eventing.

(Image credit: Sam and Yaz Wedding Photographers)

Jesse described his wedding day as “the best day ever” and said he was “so proud” to be Georgie’s husband.

“People will talk about G’s smile, and it was incredible – it would make you feel like you were the centre of the universe. But what I love about this photo is how it captures her strength. She was a strong, beautiful, phenomenal woman who just loved everything and everyone,” he said.

“Working in the equestrian world is not an easy life; there are a lot of knocks and dark days. But G would navigate this by throwing so much joy and love at every situation. She would get as much joy from having a Greggs tea on the way home from the gallops as she would teaching a client in the pouring rain or jumping and galloping around the biggest courses in the world. It was just incredible to be at your side and feel this energy.”

Georgie’s family added: “How to describe our darling Georgie?”

“Fun, optimistic, kind, bubbly, joyful, mischievous, and loving, with the most generous laugh and beautiful energy.

“The person your sisters always most wanted to sit next to at family meals as we knew we’d have such a good giggle. The child your parents will for ever be so proud of, not only for your achievements but the way you lived your life and made everyone around you feel.

“Seeing how happy you and Jesse made each other and you being the most brilliant aunt and godmother to Jack brought us all so much joy.

“We don’t know how to do life without you, but we will make it our life’s work to make you proud and keep your memory alive. We love you for ever.”

From left: Jesse and Georgie with their dog Fern, Jo Williams (Georgie’s sister) with Georgie’s dog Twig, Jack (Jo’s son and Georgie’s godson), Mike Williams (Jo’s husband) and dog Roo. Standing: Debbie and Ian (Georgie’s parents) and Bertie (Georgie’s sister). (Image credit: Mel Smith Photography)

Friends of Georgie have paid tribute to her, describing her as humble, dedicated, fun, and beautiful inside and out.

Abbie Fernandes met Georgie at Dulwich Prep School in Cranbrook, Kent, aged 10 and the pair had been “partners in crime ever since”. They were bridesmaids for one another, and Georgie is godmother to Abbie’s daughter Maisie. Georgie is also godmother to her sister Jo’s son Jack.

“She was the consummate sportswoman, it was in her blood. She could turn her hand to everything – except for the fact she couldn’t swim so that’s where I could catch her in tetrathlon,” Abbie told H&H.

“She was our hockey team captain at school, then played first team hockey at university and at county level. She was on the lacrosse first team and played at county level. She was incredible at netball, and long distance running. At school she would run with the boys because there was no competition for her.

“She was that girl on the team; when we went to other schools they’d know who she was. You didn’t want to get in her way when she was headed to the goal – and I was grateful to be on her team rather than against her! She was terrifyingly competitive on a hockey or lacrosse pitch, but the softest, kindest and most non-confrontational person off it.”

Abbie said Georgie was “so dedicated, and horses were her dream”.

“She was laser-focused on making it happen and believed in herself. Even from when we were 11 or 12 we’d finish running practice and Georgie’s mum Debbie would be waiting in the car park with the lorry ready to drive to a show. She had so much commitment, it was just incredible. She was an inspiration to me, and in many ways I idolised her,” she said.

“A part of her charm was that she was totally unaware of the effect she had on people. She was so humble and she had so much more to give. She was so excited about Global Quest and Speedwell and felt that she really had two horses that could really make it with her.

“It sounds so cliché to say that someone was beautiful inside and out, but with Georgie it was genuinely true. People who came across Georgie at grassroots events have said she would speak to them and help them, she never had any airs or graces – she wanted to help people do their best. She barely said an unkind word about anyone, in fact most of the time she was telling me off for being judgemental. Between us we made the whole person, unless you tried to give us a maths equation, because neither of us could count!

“She’s been part of my life ever since I can remember, and I feel very privileged to have been her best friend.”

Hattie Cripps, former DC of the Romney Marsh branch of the Pony Club, told H&H Georgie was “the most wonderful girl”.

“I first saw Georgie when she was around six. I remember the exact moment, we were at a mini event at Eridge Park and she was riding a pony called Weston Star. I remember looking at her and thinking ‘Oh my god, that child is amazing!’. She was way above all the other kids at that age, and she just went on showing this talent. It was extraordinary,” said Hattie.

“She had the most amazing smile, and I don’t think I ever heard her say a nasty thing about anybody. We used to have Pony Club at their farm and as a teenager she was always there helping the younger kids, everybody loved her.

“She was on all the Pony Club teams; showjumping, dressage, eventing, tetrathlon, Prince Phillip Cup. There was nothing she couldn’t do, and she was so dedicated the whole way through life – she was the most amazing all-rounder, and such fun. We did a lot of dressing up and playing games at camp and she was always in the forefront of it all and making us laugh.”

Georgie Campbell and Darcy De La Rose (Image credit: Alamy Stock Photo)

Pippa Funnell told H&H it is “so very tough to come up with a tribute to someone so special as Georgie”.

“I have read so many of the amazing messages sent to Jesse after the incredible post he put out about the tragic loss of his deeply cherished wife. I pray that Jesse, Georgie’s family and friends can draw strength from all the affection being shown,” she said.

“If there was ever a definition of accumulated love and support this situation would be it. We collectively grieve together over Georgie, she was not just stunningly beautiful with such a radiant smile but an amazing example of an exemplary member of the human race. She clearly had very high morals. It was so obvious that she was devoted to Jesse and her family, she was always gracious, thankful and of course great fun. People say ‘If you are lucky you can only count your good friends on one hand’ but because of the person Georgie was she would have needed many hands.”

Pippa added that Georgie was an “out-and-out competitor, completely dedicated to the horses she so adored.”

“It was wonderful to get the opportunity to work with her over recent weeks. I loved her attitude at looking to improve herself to help her horses. She was an absolute pleasure to teach, open minded and incredibly talented,” she said.

“She was inspired and excited about what the future held for her and her lovely team of horses. I felt between them they had all the attributes to succeed at the very top of the sport she so loved.

“Dearest Georgie. All of us in the eventing family will miss you terribly but we promise to look after and support those that you so loved. We will always remember you fondly with that wonderful wonderful infectious smile. Thank you. Xxx’”

Tom McEwen told H&H: “I feel so fortunate to be able to call Georgie my friend.”

“Jesse said to me the other day, ‘I could write a book about how incredible Georgie was’ so to try to boil it down to a few paragraphs feels impossible.

“And how true this is, I could honestly write pages and at the same time not need to say anything at all to explain how great Georgie is. The memories I have of Georgie are filled with kindness, happiness and an unwavering positivity that she threw at everything and everyone. Georgie always made you feel that she had all the time in the world for you. Because she genuinely did.

“From Jesse and Georgie’s wedding during Covid with only a small number of us, to more recently hunting in Ireland this year, any time spent in Georgie’s company was special and happy. The only time I was slightly scared of her was during a particularly competitive game of rounders.”

Tom said that in eventing Georgie has “always been one of the most dedicated and self-motivated people I know”.

“Her natural talent and passion were enviable. Georgie loved what she did. She loved her family and friends even more and she loved Jesse unconditionally. Jesse and Georgie’s relationship really showed everyone else how it should be done, always being by one another’s side with a happiness I will always remember,” he said.

“We should all lead our lives by Georgie’s example. How lucky we are to have had her in our lives.”

Georgie and Cooley Earl at Badminton 2018. (Image credit: Tim Wilkinson Photography)

Lisa White was Georgie’s dressage coach of six years, having met Georgie through Jesse.

“The big thing about Georgie was that she was peerless, in her elegance and with her natural harmony on a horse,” Lisa told H&H. “You could look across the warm-up and spot Georgie a mile away, the horses were always so happy and with her. Each time I would come back and see Georgie she had taken what we’d worked on and developed it to somewhere so beautiful and amazing.

“She was so talented but humble, and so courageous and competitive but kind – and that’s a really rare balance to find. She was steely in her competitiveness and in a pressurised industry, Georgie always had her horses as a number one priority, she never compromised.”

Lisa added that Georgie “astounded me in her ability to work with her horses and make the best out of every one of them”.

“They all loved her, and she loved all of them. She celebrated her victories by making them about the horse, and when things didn’t go right she shouldered them completely on her own,” said Lisa.

“I was very lucky to have worked with such a beautiful person and a beautiful rider. She was just a very special human being.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Eventing community to remember Georgie Campbell with two-minute silence

Becky Murray — Thu, 30 May 2024 12:23:06 +0000

The eventing community will come together this weekend to remember Georgie Campbell with a two-minute silence.

Georgie, 36, and Global Quest were competing in the CCI4*-S at Bicton Horse Trials on 26 May, when they fell on the cross-country. Global Quest was uninjured, but despite receiving immediate medical assistance, Georgie could not be saved.

“Georgie was an extremely talented and accomplished rider who applied herself to the sport wholeheartedly. Her passion for eventing, her personality and zest for life saw her loved and respected by her fellow competitors,” said a British Eventing (BE) spokesperson.

“Her tragic loss of life doing what she enjoyed most, has seen an outpouring of love and support for Jesse and the family and friends she leaves behind.”

The BE spokesperson said “as a community, we will take a moment at all BE events this weekend, as well as at Millstreet in Ireland where several of Georgie’s friends will be competing, to stand quietly together and reflect”.

“We ask members and supporters, whether at an event or at home, to join us at 12pm to stop and take two minutes to reflect on Georgie’s life and quietly send thoughts and prayers to her family and friends,” he said.

“There will be BE Support Trust (BEST) and BE staff at all events this weekend to answer any questions you might have.”

BE has a dedicated support line via BEST (07780 008 877) for anyone who has been affected. The line is open 24 hours a day, and callers will be connected with a mental health professional who will ensure they are given the most appropriate support. People can also email support@sportingchanceclinic.com.

Charity Riders Minds offers a 24-hour live webchat and counselling services. Visit ridersminds.org, text 07480 488 103, or call 0800 088 2073.

Horse & Hound is working with Georgie’s family on a tribute to this special individual, which will be published in due course.

Tragic news from Bicton Horse Trials as Georgie Campbell dies in a fall

Pippa Roome — Sun, 26 May 2024 17:31:26 +0000

British event rider Georgie Campbell has died in a fatal fall at Bicton Horse Trials today (26 May).

Georgie and Global Quest were competing in the CCI4*-S at the Devon event when they fell at the log into water at fence 5b on the cross-country course.

A statement released by the event at 6pm said: “It is with deepest regret that we announce that Georgie Campbell (GBR) suffered a fatal accident whilst competing at the Bicton International Horse Trials in Devon, England on Sunday 26 May 2024. Medical professionals attended immediately following her fall at fence 5b however, unfortunately, she could not be saved.

“The horse, Global Quest, was assessed by the on-site vets and walked back to the stable and is uninjured.

“To respect the family’s privacy at this extremely difficult and sad time, no further details will be shared.”

Global Quest is an 11-year-old gelding belonging to Diana and Lance Morrish. Georgie, 36, had competed him throughout his eventing career and the horse had stepped up to four-star level in 2022. In the autumn of that year, they won the CCI4*-L at Lignières in France and they had been placed a number of other times at national and international events. Georgie had competed at five-star on other horses, completing both Badminton Horse Trials and Burghley Horse Trials.

Georgie (née Strang) married New Zealand event rider Jesse Campbell in December 2020. The couple were based in Kent.

An initial statement released by the event at 3.30pm explained that Georgie and Global Quest had had a fall and she had been attended to immediately by on-site medical professionals. It said there would be a delay on course of approximately one hour. The CCI4*-S, which was due to finish with today’s cross-country phase, was subsequently abandoned and a further statement released confirming that Georgie Campbell had had a fatal fall.

The three long format classes at Bicton – a CCI3*-L, a young rider CCI3*-L and a CCI2*-L – were all concluded, with their final showjumping phases having already taken place.

Updated 1 May 2026 Georgie Campbell’s inquest

An inquest into the death of Georgie Campbell concluded that it was an accident. Assistant coroner Deborah Archer presided over the inquest at Devon Coroner’s Court in Exeter on 30 April 2026. She concluded that Georgie died as a result of a “catastrophic head injury in a rotational fall”.

(Image credit: Nico Morgan)

‘A beautiful person and a beautiful rider’: family and friends pay tribute to Georgie Campbell

(Image credit: Nico Morgan)

Georgie Campbell Foundation set up to help aspiring riders ‘fulfil their dreams’

(Image credit: Nico Morgan)

Initiatives keep Georgie Campbell’s memory alive – and give back to the sport she loved

(Image credit: Nico Morgan)

Time to give back to the sport Georgie Campbell loved as support scheme applications open

8 top tips to help you look like a pro over a jump

Gemma Redrup — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 16:32:35 +0000

Do you yearn to look as laid-back over a fence as some of the world’s greatest riders? It is such a hard aspect of jumping to achieve, but here are some top tips to help you improve your jumping position.

Five-star event rider Georgie Campbell (pictured) has some helpful advice to get you on your way with improving your position.

1. Your approach to a fence is vital for ensuring you get a smooth jump. Straightness, balance and impulsion is key.

2. You need to make sure the saddle fits both the horse and rider correctly. Every rider is individual in what they need from a saddle so make sure you’ve done your research.

3. Ensure you have the correct stirrup length — they need to be short enough so you can achieve a half seat in the air over the fence, but not so short you get propelled into orbit!

4. A secure lower leg is vital; make sure your calf is in contact with the horse, and your weight is pushed down into the heel into the ball of the foot and through the stirrup.

5. Always go with the horse’s movement, but make sure you don’t get ahead of them — wait until the horse has taken off before you bring your shoulders forward.

Improve your riding skills with Horse & Hound’s new online rider confidence course. Learn how to overcome low confidence and gain a positive mindset

6. Your jumping position should be the result of your horse’s jumping effort. Follow the horse’s movement, for example, the more the horse bascules, the more you will need to fold at the hip.

7. Try not to grip with the knee. Although this is always tempting and feels natural to do, it can cause the lower leg to slip back.

8. Tucking a couple of fingers into a neck strap can help make sure you don’t catch the horse in the mouth over a fence. It can also offer a feeling of security and added confidence to help you relax.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

How to keep your horse in walk during a dressage test

Gemma Redrup — Mon, 17 Feb 2020 16:24:22 +0000

Creating and maintaining a good walk in a dressage test is sometimes easier said than done. Five-star event rider Georgie Strang has some helpful advice on how to achieve a good, relaxed but active walk. Then, don’t miss our selection of competitions for you to showcase what you’ve learnt…

1. Practise — It is important a horse learns to stretch and relax in walk at home first — even out hacking you want to teach them to take the rein forward and down, so when you get into a competition environment they are used to the feeling.

2. Leg — Keep your leg on — if your horse jogs, do not take the leg off as they can learn to use this as an evasion.

3. Relax — Stay relaxed and soft. Try to move your hips with the movement of the horse.

4. Take it steady — Ease out the rein gradually so the horse doesn’t suddenly feel insecure. When collecting the reins back up, make sure you also do this steadily.

5. Encourage — Practice at home by using your voice and giving your horse a pat and scratch on the neck.

6. Variety — When training, vary the movement after you have collected the rein, so you horse doesn’t always anticipate walk to trot or canter, and they wait on your aids.

Now you’ve got that advice in mind, take a look at these events and competitions available to enter where you can show off what you’ve learnt…

Unaffiliated fun dressage

Date: 22 February

Venue: High Plains Equestrian Centre, Riding Mill

Details: “This evening competition has classes from intro to novice. Entries are resticted in each class so everyone will win a rosette.”

Enter now

British Dressage including affiliated dressage to music

Date: 22 February

Venue: Cobham Manor Equestrian Centre, Maidstone

Details: “This affiliated competition has classes ranging between prelim and elementary with an unaffiliated pick your own long arena class too.”

Enter now

Unaffiliated dressage

Date: 23 February

Venue: Centyfield Eventing & Dressage Academy, Exeter

Details: “This competition has classes ranging between intro and elementary.”

Enter now

S

Unaffiliated dressage

Date: 23 February

Venue: Fenland Equestrian Centre, Wisbech

Details: “This unaffiliated competition features classes ranging between intro and elementary.”

Enter now

Unaffiliated evening dressage

Date: 25 February

Venue: Moulton College Equestrian Centre, Northampton

Details: “This competition has classes ranging between intro and novice.”

Enter now

British Dressage

Date: 26 February

Venue: Alnwick Ford Equestrian, Morpeth

Details: “This affiliated competition has classes ranging between prelim and inter II.”

Enter now

Visit equo.co.uk for full competition and training listings

7 key bits of advice for getting a young event horse out competing — plus 6 shows for you to get them going at

Gemma Redrup — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 16:25:43 +0000

If you are lucky enough to have a horse in your possession who has never evented before, there are some key points to remember to ensure both of you make the most of your maiden voyage as a combination.

Producing a young event horse is hugely exciting (for both of you!) and a privilege, but it is something you can rarely afford to get wrong. Here’s some helpful pointers from four-star event rider and producer of young horses, Georgie Strang (pictured), to get you on your way. Then, don’t miss our selection of great little shows, ideal for taking your young event horse to…

1. Hire a dressage arena on grass beforehand. A 20x40m arena can feel very small, particularly on a young horse. It also gives your horse a chance to see white boards and work in an open space with no arena sides holding them in.

2. Attend a few showjumping competitions to get your horse used to busy warm ups and see a variety of fillers.

3. Know if your horse will stand on the horsebox by itself while you walk the course. Also check, if you are travelling with multiple horses, that the young horse is OK if he is left alone.

4. Get out cross-country schooling to a variety of places to ensure your horse is confident with the different type of questions that come up at an event.

5. Practice plaiting your horse up so he can get used to the feeling of having plaits in his mane.

6. Have a practice doing studs at home and make sure the holes are cleaned out and ready to go on competition day. Then, if your horse is a bit excited when they first arrive at the event, you are already a step ahead.

7. Get a clear plan in place for the day to avoid unnecessary rushing or stress, which can unsettle young horses.

Now you’ve got that advice in mind, take a look at these low-key competitions available to enter where you can get your young horse off to a positive start…

Unaffiliated dressage

Date: 30 June

Venue: Forest Edge Arena, Swaffham

Details: “This show features a range of classes from introductory to elementary.”

Enter now

Eventers’ challenge

Date: 30 June

Venue: Priory Court Farm, Polegate

Details: “This competition has classes from 60cm to 90cm where horses and riders complete a round of showjumps followed by a course of knock-down cross-country fences including two water complexes.”

Enter now

Summer showjumping

Date: 30 June

Venue: Mullacott Event Centre, Ilfracombe

Details: “This event features a huge range of classes from 50cm to 105cm with a variety of qualifiers.”

Enter now

Combined training

Date: 1 July

Venue: Kingston Maurward College, Dorchester

Details: “This event offers classes ranging from prelim to novice with the option of doing just pure dressage or combined training with showjumps ranging in height from 50cm to 90cm.”

Enter now

Unaffiliated one-day event on a surface

Date: 1 July

Venue: Tumpy Green Equestrian Centre, Cam

Details: “This is ideal for those wanting to build confidence with all three disciplines held in contained areas, with lots of help and support available. Please note the size of showjumping and cross-country phases is the maximum for that class. Courses will include some jumps that are below that maximum. Heights range from mini lead rein and 40cm to 80cm, with most classes having junior and senior sections.”

Enter now

Cross-country clinic

Date: 7 July

Venue: Urchinwood Manor Riding and Event Centre,

Details: “This clinic is with Andrew Lovell who has evented to advanced level as well as competing at prix st georges dressage. He is a BHS stage 5 performance coach and each session of this clinic will run for 1.5 hours and will be in groups of no more than five.”

Enter now

Visit equo.co.uk for full competition and training listings

Badminton first-timers: Georgie Strang — ‘I fell in love with him the first time I saw him’

Lucy Elder — Tue, 01 May 2018 08:35:43 +0000

It was love at first sight for Georgie Strang and her Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials ride Cooley Earl.

Geogie has produced Cooley Earl since he was a five-year-old and the pair completed their first four-star as a combination at Pau in October 2017, where they finished 20th.

Georgie, who recently moved to Mark Todd’s Wiltshire base, remembers going to try Cooley Earl for the first time at Richard Sheane’s Cooley Farm.

“I went on my own the first time I went to see him and really loved him,” says Georgie.

“I called Diana Morrish, who now owns him, and asked if she would come and see him.

Badminton final scores

“I had to warn her that he is a big horse — he isn’t your stereotypical event horse, especially for me — he is quite large (16.3hh) and I would normally go for the smaller, more blood type. But there was just something about him.

“When I sat on him I instantly just fell in love with him. We said at the start that he wasn’t going to go and be a world beater tomorrow, we knew he would take a bit of time.”

Georgie has had a number of horses from Cooley Farm, including the Cooley Business Time, with whom she completed Burghley in 2015, and rising star Red Hot Cooley.

“Richard knows what I like and he is always incredibly honest, I really trust his opinion,” she adds.

Georgie and Cooley Earl have enjoyed success on the national circuit, with wins at open intermediates and top-three placings at advanced, and have also shown form in international classes.

They have a host of placings at two-star level and eight cross-country clears at three-star.

“I don’t necessarily have one stand-out moment, the whole journey with him has been the most exciting thing,” says Georgie.

“Having produced him from such a young horse, he is always been an incredible jumper and has the kindest nature, whatever you ask of him he tries his hardest.

“He is so laid back you can put anyone on him, you wouldn’t look twice at him hacking down the road as he is usually miles behind the others he walks so slowly — then you pick up the reins and you realise the power and athleticism he has.”

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Georgie adds if she has to choose one competitive highlight, it would be their performance at Pau.

“I had the most amazing ride across country on him, I was third to go so didn’t know the problems the course would cause [for other competitors] and he really stepped up,” she says.

“It was amazingly exciting to get the call to say I had been accepted into Badminton — at the time it did still feel like a long way away, there was still so much preparation to be done, I stuck to my plan and put it to the back of my mind.

“Having been to Badminton for years and years as a kid, finally being there is going to be quite surreal — I’m really looking forward to the whole experience.”

This week’s magazine (26 April), features a full Badminton preview, including a cross-country course walk with Mary King and full form guide for every horse and rider

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Horse & Hound’s equestrian week on Twitter

Gemma Redrup — Sat, 20 Sep 2014 12:55:47 +0000

Enjoy the H&H team’s top tweets from the equestrian twitterverse this week.

The week on twitter

It’s great to see Paul’s daughter is sporting the famous ‘Tapner red’ away from the eventing scene

Fun afternoon watching my daughter have her first vaulting lesson with @JivePony She now has next WEG in her sights! pic.twitter.com/tYKsfa0VCaFun afternoon watching my daughter have her first vaulting lesson with @JivePony She now has next WEG in her sights! pic.twitter.com/tYKsfa0VCa— Paul Tapner (@TapnerEventing) September 16, 2014— Paul Tapner (@TapnerEventing) September 16, 2014

Clever Smokey indeed. Francis Whittington deservedly soaking up his victory at Blenheim Horse Trials

Clever smokey. Look what you won. #whereswhittington ….. Enjoying the moment!! @BlenheimHorse thank you pic.twitter.com/HxSo12edTpClever smokey. Look what you won. #whereswhittington ….. Enjoying the moment!! @BlenheimHorse thank you pic.twitter.com/HxSo12edTp— Francis Whittington (@FWeventing) September 14, 2014— Francis Whittington (@FWeventing) September 14, 2014

It looks like event rider Georgie Strang’s boyfriend has got some shopping to do after she finished 8th Blenheim Horse Trials with Cooley Business Time

“@NPearceRacing: @GinnyHoweEvent @GSeventing @BlenheimHorse if Georgie is in top 10 in 8/9yos I'll buy her those new boots!' Remember this?!“@NPearceRacing: @GinnyHoweEvent @GSeventing @BlenheimHorse if Georgie is in top 10 in 8/9yos I'll buy her those new boots!' Remember this?!— Georgie Strang (@GSeventing) September 15, 2014— Georgie Strang (@GSeventing) September 15, 2014

Nicky Roncoroni’s dog doing his best to remain inconspicuous

Captions please!! @horseandhound @BlenheimHorse… Ps he's not there on purpose!! pic.twitter.com/mB8wsPfOIXCaptions please!! @horseandhound @BlenheimHorse… Ps he's not there on purpose!! pic.twitter.com/mB8wsPfOIX— Nicky Roncoroni (@nbreventing) September 14, 2014— Nicky Roncoroni (@nbreventing) September 14, 2014

Keeping with the dog theme, Aoife Clark’s dog stages a silent protest at the sight of the lorry being packed for another three-day event

Please don't go away AGAIN!! 🙁 pic.twitter.com/v4YY5mVkMVPlease don't go away AGAIN!! 🙁 pic.twitter.com/v4YY5mVkMV— Aoife Clark (@Aoifeclark) September 16, 2014— Aoife Clark (@Aoifeclark) September 16, 2014

Lara Griffith and her boss Olympic dressage rider Laura Tomlinson’s Rubin Al Asad claim victory at the national dressage championships

We are national champions! We won the @TopSpec2 intermediate 2 at the @britishdressage in true style! pic.twitter.com/fEnsG4PNd5We are national champions! We won the @TopSpec2 intermediate 2 at the @britishdressage in true style! pic.twitter.com/fEnsG4PNd5— Lara Griffith (@LaraGriffith) September 18, 2014— Lara Griffith (@LaraGriffith) September 18, 2014

The sport gene has obviously rubbed off on the eldest daughter of ex-premiership footballer Michael Owen

My 11 year old daughter was selected for The Great Britain U16 Dressage Team today. Can't tell you how proud I am.My 11 year old daughter was selected for The Great Britain U16 Dressage Team today. Can't tell you how proud I am.— michael owen (@themichaelowen) September 17, 2014— michael owen (@themichaelowen) September 17, 2014

And finally, kudos to multi-gold medal-winning para dressage rider Natasha Baker for throwing herself out of a plane all in the name of charity

Just incredible #skydive #dreamflight #crazy #stupid #Iwanttodoitagain #adrenalinerush #FeelingProud pic.twitter.com/gy7boB8rrjJust incredible #skydive #dreamflight #crazy #stupid #Iwanttodoitagain #adrenalinerush #FeelingProud pic.twitter.com/gy7boB8rrj— Natasha Baker MBE (@NBakerParaRider) September 14, 2014— Natasha Baker MBE (@NBakerParaRider) September 14, 2014

If you like this, why not follow @horseandhound on twitter today?

Injured event rider aims to compete again this season

Flora Watkins — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 16:13:05 +0000

Event rider Georgie Strang – who broke both wrists last month – says she plans to be back competing before the end of the season.

The 24-year-old Kent-based rider has been out of action since the fall, which happened while she was cross-country schooling on 14 August.

“Everything is healing well, so I plan to get out competing at the beginning of October,” she told H&H.

“This is the longest I have ever gone without riding and it is so frustrating, but I am doing everything I can to make my recovery as speedy as possible,” she added.

Georgie has now been selected for Le Lion seven-year-old World Horse Championships on Cooley Business Time, owned by Jenny Newton. This will be her main aim and motivation when her casts come off.

This news story was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound (6 September 2012)

Georgie Strang’s Burghley blog: crashing out cross-country

Horse & Hound — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 07:37:54 +0000

So as many of you may well know… Saturday cross-country day at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials was not a great success for Ben (Master Monarch) and I.

I walked the course very early in the morning with Mark and Tanya Kyle and analysed each fence and the lines I would be taking, which left me feeling confident and excited. I was lucky enough to watch the first few riders go from the big screen in the riders’ marquee by the stables, which confirmed the view that this was an attacking course.

Lucinda Green then called me for the third time that week to go through every jump and how it was riding. After having a walk and graze in-hand early in the morning, I got on Ben 45min before my start time. Our warm-up went well and despite the nerves I couldn’t wait to get out there!

Everyone was right, as soon at the starter said go, I was away, all fear and distraction of the crowds vanished and I was totally focused for the task ahead, and so was Ben! He flew the first few fences like they were Pony Club, sailed down the Leaf Pit and through Discovery Valley perfectly — we were enjoying every minute.

Through the Trout Hatchery we took a flyer in the water, however neatly put one stride in the step to brush coming out, couldn’t be going better! The Maltings loop rode beautifully, we had a great rhythm and met every jump spot on.

However, then came the dreaded Rolex Combination, a rail with a ditch underneath, two strides followed by a narrow corner on a straight line. Having got my line sussed out and taking in the advice I’d been given and how it had been riding for those before me, I kept coming to the rail, to get a good forward shot for two long strides out over the corner.

However, as I sat back waiting for the second stride, Ben took off on one. Then that’s where my memory goes blank.

The next thing I remember is sitting in the ambulance, with my hat, boots, body protector on the floor and my stopwatch beeping at 40min! My Mum and Dad then arrived and apparently all I kept asking was is Ben ok? What happened? Was it my fault? Over and over again.

I then asked had I done my dressage and what mark did I get? When my mum said yes, I’d got 60, I said oh no, that’s rubbish. At the time I had no idea of the day, where I was, and definitely not starting the course. However, after being very worried and tearful, I then began to remember more and more and all I kept saying then was… People were cheering me, it was so fun until then!

We went to the hospital for a check-up and a CT scan, and, after the all clear, Tom and Sarah Attwood, Ben’s owners, took us back to Burghley. The first stop was Ben’s stable, where he got a lot of carrots and kisses. He was a little stiff so had some physio, but otherwise in fine spirits, a little annoyed he had his round cut short.

After a lot of analysing we think he either may not have read the back rail on the corner and therefore would have cleared it if there hadn’t been one, or he was a little over enthusiastic and had possibly wanted to show off for the crowds by doing what no other horse had tried, however I will never know.

In hindsight I would have come in a lot steadier and tried to just pop the first rail so he couldn’t have jumped so big, but you can only learn from your mistakes and the possibility of doing one stride hadn’t crossed anyone’s minds. At least we both lived to tell the tale and I can’t wait to get back out there and try again.

I have the safety frangible pins to thank for that, along with my Point Two air jacket and Champion hat. My hat itself had a big stud hole in the back, which would explain the large bruises on my forehead, nose and lip. I took my hat to the Champion shop to show them what happened and a photographer at that fence had already shown them a sequence of photos of my fall, with Ben actually standing on the back of my head. Just made me realise how lucky I was.

Waking up yesterday morning, my body ached all over, but Ben trotted up completely sound and a little annoyed at being left behind when all the other horses went off to showjump. It was a thrilling end to the week seeing the amazing little horse Lenamore win, also huge congratulation to my friend Lauren Shannon who finished 12th at her first Burghley and best under-25.

Burghley really is a fantastic event, I had a brilliant time and it was to huge privilege to be riding there, especially on such an incredible horse. The only question now is what to do next… Our time is definitely not done yet.

Thank you to everyone for your amazing support and help, especially those who came all the way up. Katie Preston for taking great care of Ben and making him look stunning! Thank you to Mum and Dad for looking after me, to Ben’s fantastic owners, Tom and Sarah Attwood and Richard Constant, and Whitney my vet friend who stayed with us for the week.

I can’t believe how generous, kind and supportive people have been. So sorry for worrying you, I hugely appreciate all the messages of support, I hope I didn’t let you down too much. We’ll be back soon, I hope.

Georgie

Read all Georgie’s blogs building up to Burghley and her daily updates from the event

H&H’s online reports from Burghley and more

Georgie Strang’s Burghley blog: dressage test delight

Horse & Hound — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 15:20:52 +0000

As my dressage at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials wasn’t until the end of the day yesterday I spent the morning watching lots of tests to ensure it was really in my mind and I wasn’t going to go wrong! I also walked the course again which gave me another chance to assess which lines I will be taking on Saturday.

In the morning Ben (Master Monarch) came out his stable for two 20-minute walks in-hand and graze! I then got on him at 2pm and loosened him up and rode through the test in the practice arenas by the stables.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I then took him back to his stable for half an hour to be smartened up and change to the double bridle. I was back on him half an hour before my test, giving me time to get up to the main arena and to let him settle and take in the atmosphere.

I was definitely nervous as it was the largest crowd I have ever performed for, but Ben rose to the occasion and loved every minute, and, knowing that he looked and felt great, I was able to enjoy the experience. I was delighted with my test, with just one blip where he went to change at the end of my half pass. The rest went smoothly.

I know there were definitely several places where I could have picked up more marks and ridden better but that’s the joy of hindsight, nonetheless I am very happy, and so is Ben!

I then tested the shower in the new lorry and changed into my Bruce Oldfield couture dress for the drinks in Burghley house, followed by the ERA dinner and back to the grooms’ party! It was a great night, my dress was fantastic and the champagne was flowing!

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

As I am not competing today, I will take Ben out for a hack and give him a canter. He will also be taken out for grass a couple of times. I will walk the course twice today, once with my measuring wheel to find the minute markers and again to reconfirm how I will ride each fence and be definite on what lines I will take.

I’m hoping for an early night tonight, however I’m not sure how much sleep I will be getting as I will be riding through the course in my head all night.

The butterflies are already starting, Ben on the other hand is as cool and calm and ever!

Hope you will be cheering me on tomorrow. Wish me luck.

Georgie

Georgie Strang’s Burghley blog: first trot-up and first course-walk

Horse & Hound — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 21:44:55 +0000

We arrived safely at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials yesterday afternoon and Ben (Master Monarch) settled in straight away — portable stables are his second home now. After a good night’s sleep, we went for a hack around the grounds and up to the arena, where Ben obviously realised where he was… and insisted on charging about in medium trot! He then had a bath and Katie Preston, my friend who is grooming for me, got to work on making him look fabulous for the trot-up, giving him a very neatly sewn plait for every one of the 19 years of his life.

My Mum and I took on the inevitable task of the first course-walk. It definitely confirmed I’m at one of the greatest four-stars in the world, with some huge spreads and the infamous undulating terrain. However, very rideable and amazingly built. I will need to re-walk another three or four times to confirm where I’m going as there are several options of what lines to take and routes to navigate.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I was then privileged to pick up a fantastic outfit to wear for the trot-up from the unique tweed designers Timothy Foxx. Feeling confident in my new outfit and with Ben feeling sprightly we flew through the trot-up. I then rode him again to practise some of my dressage moves for tomorrow.

The times are now out and I’m due on at 3.52pm tomorrow, so plenty of time to watch, walk the course, and for a spot of shopping, of course. I’ve just got to hope Ben will remained focused and listen to me with the grand occasion tomorrow and I can ride him to the best of my abilities.

Georgie

Report of the first trot-up

Join us for live written dressage coverage tomorrow

Georgie Strang’s Burghley blog: we’re on our way

Horse & Hound — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:24:37 +0000

One sleepless night down, many more to go!

We are actually en route to the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials, not just to watch, but to actually compete. However excited and nervous I am, I can be sure I couldn’t be riding a better, more experienced horse than Master Monarch (Ben) round my first four-star, he is a total hero and owes me nothing. Just to be going there riding such a star is an absolute privilege.

Last week was fairly hectic and somewhat surreal. I had another lesson with Lucinda Green on Tuesday, which again was great. Then on Thursday we picked up our new horsebox! Well, it’s very new and big and smart for us, but in fact it’s Francis Whittington’s old lorry, and in writing this I can take great pleasure in saying we have just overtaken him on the motorway.

On Friday I went up to London for my sister Jo’s birthday. And while we were there, I had the great honour of visiting Bruce Oldfield’s wonderful couture dress store in Knightsbridge. The very prestigious designer has very kindly lent me a dress to wear for the drinks reception on Thursday night. Pictures to follow I hope.

On the Saturday I took Ben for a dressage lesson with Andrew Gould, who gave me some vital last-minute pointers, I now just have to put into practice.

We left home early to stop at Mark and Tanya Kyle’s for a jumping lesson

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

on the way up (pictured above), then are set to arrive later this afternoon with my mum, my friend Katie Preston who is grooming for me and the always mischievous Jack Russells.

I would just like to thank everyone for their generosity and support, I just hope I don’t let you down. Thank you to everyone left at home to look after the other horses, and to my dad who is running the hop picking on the farm and can’t be here with us. I look forward to seeing Ben’s amazingly generous owners, Tom and Sarah Attwood and Richard Constant later in the week. Thank you for giving me this opportunity!

I will let you know how we have settled in, details of the trot-up and the state of my nerves…

Georgie

All H&H’s online Burghley coverage — including live written dressage coverage with Anna Ross Davies

Georgie Strang’s Burghley blog: final prep with Lucinda Green

Horse & Hound — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:03:10 +0000

Only one week to go now before the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials; the passes have arrived and lists have been written. It’s starting to feel very real and I’m finding myself being more superstitious than ever, saluting at every magpie during my lorry driver training.

In an effort to look as smart as possible, I’ve bought a new pair of jodhpurs, gloves and XC boots. However, after an episode at the pony club championships a few years ago where I fell off at the last fence on the cross-country, then again in the showjumping while sporting new attire, I have already worn them several times, and after a downpour of rain they are not looking quite so pristine.

Last week I took Ben (Master Monarch) for a lesson with Lucinda Green, which was fantastic. With a set of the skinniest jumps I have ever seen, which resembled a dog agility course (see pic top right), our straightness and communication was really put to the test. I am having another lesson this afternoon with both Ben and Highland Leopard for a last minute brush up, and after watching some old Burghley videos, I think I defiantly need it!

With all the anticipation building up,

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

I took an afternoon off to go up to London and visit Madam Tussauds, which was great fun, but with train delays and tube crowding I was relieved to get back and see the physio, who gave Ben a once over.

I have been a bit of a wimp and decided to put off breaking the three youngsters until after Burghley, but I have fitted in some teaching this week, which will help with the diesel.

The next time you’ll be reading this I’ll be on the three-and-a-half hour drive up to Burghley (fingers crossed, magpies saluted!!).

Wish me luck!

Georgie

Burghley Horse Trials blog: Georgie Strang competes at Hartpury

Horse & Hound — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 14:00:56 +0000

With 3 horses originally entered for Hartpury, our main concern was how we were going to get them all there, plus all the gear, in our little 7.5tonne lorry.

However, after success at Gatcombe I withdrew my Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials ride Ben (Master Monarch) so he could have a few days off. Then Whiskey Roo overreached in the field just before we were due to leave so he was pulled out too. With just Highland Leopard (pictured earlier this year at Hambleden) in the CCI**, it turned out to be quite a relaxing week, with plenty of time for socializing, of course.

He did a good dressage of 52, putting me in the top half of the class. The cross-country course offered plenty of questions, but was very inviting, and with the well-needed rain on the Friday night the ground was perfect.

As my dressage was on the Thursday and my cross-country was at 4pm on Saturday, Leopard was pretty excited by the time I ran. Always being slightly cheeky to start, he made no exception in getting my nerves going and in the anticipation I forgot to set my watch. Putting that behind us, we had a fantastic round, and I felt his confidence grow over every fence. Unfortunately we clocked up four time-faults, but not many made the time so I was delighted. He finished the week with a lovely clear showjumping and I moved up to 13th.

My friend Katie Preston, who has been an invaluable help at many of my three-day events, came up to lend a hand and will also be grooming for me at Burghley.

Having had the weekend off, Ben was very fresh being worked yesterday and we’re off to the gallops this afternoon. I am having a lesson with Lucinda Green later in the week which I can’t wait for, as long as I don’t get bucked off by the youngsters before then!

Georgie

Georgie Strang’s Burghley Horse Trials blog

Horse & Hound — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 09:35:09 +0000

Daily blogs from Burghley

Crashing out across country

Dressage day

First trot-up and first course-walk

Weekly build-up blogs

We’re on our way

Final preparation with Lucinda Green

Competing at Hartpury

Success at Gatcombe

For visitor information about Burghley and to buy tickets visit the Burghley Horse Trials official website

Burghley blog: Georgie Strang rides Master Monarch at Gatcombe

Horse & Hound — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 09:30:33 +0000

Hello!

I’m Georgie Strang, and I have been asked to write a diary in the build-up to my first Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials — it’s my first ever four-star and just writing these words seems pretty surreal!

I am 22 years old and live on a farm in Kent with my parents and a lot of animals. I have always been obsessed with competing at the top level and have several young horses to bring on to hopeful stardom. My horse however needs no introduction! Master Monarch, or “Ben”, as we call him, now 19 years young, is an eventing legend and has a truly outstanding record, including competing at the Sydney Olympics with Brook Staples, and winning the Rolex Kentucky Horse Trials in 2006 with Andrew Hoy.

Having watched him on the TV over the years in total adoration, when his owners Tom Attwood and Richard Constant asked us to have him on rest at our farm at the end of 2008 I was overjoyed that such a horse would be a member of our yard.

However, when the opportunity came for me to take over the ride and actually compete him that was beyond my wildest dreams. Although I was delighted, the pressure was huge to take on such a superstar, but luckily enough I had the fantastic help of Mark and Tanya Kyle, who I was based with while studying at Nottingham Trent University.

The first question was would he regain fitness at 18, which proved the least of our worries. The second, and most important question was would I be able to ride him? Starting off at novice just last year, we progressed to complete my first CIC*** and come fourth at Weston CCI**, not without several setbacks, especially in the showjumping, and jumping several wrong fences and an ancient Scottish stone wall at Burgie along the way!

With the invaluable help from the Kyles and the incredible kind, generous and forgiving nature of Ben I am now four weeks away from achieving a lifelong dream, to compete at Burghley. The decision was made to enter the prestigious event after being placed ninth at Bramham in the under-25s in June, with an unbelievable clear inside the time cross-country. We also won the vet’s prize, for the horse who held the best condition and fitness throughout the event. From the moment we arrived at the event he knew he was finally back to the big time and having already competed at Burghley five times, I’m certain he knows it’s coming.

Final run at Gatcombe

Needing to have one more run, I took him to Gatcombe in the British open last weekend. We didn’t do a bad dressage test, however, the showjumping was not quite so successful. As soon as he heard the cross-country loudspeaker Ben couldn’t concentrate on anything else, and had possibly the first refusal of his life, at a simple upright, then several poles down before we managed to regain some pride and finish well.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

All flustered and bedazzled, I had to put this display to the back of my mind and just focus on the challenging cross-country course ahead! With Ben doing what he does best, I had a fantastic round (above and left), he had his ears pricked the whole way and made it feel like a Pony Club track, both of us loving every second. Somehow we moved up 10 places and as we were packing up I was told I had to get down to the prize-giving immediately as I had won the best under-25 prize, a saddle and a training voucher. Thinking they had made a mistake I sheepishly joined the top riders to receive my fantastic award.

The day’s dreamlike end

Then the day got even more dreamlike when I was tapped on the back by a little girl asking for my autograph. I looked around me in disbelief thinking she had got me confused with someone, but no, she asked me again. As I signed it, a queue formed behind her of about 10 more children with pens and paper. As I signed my name, next to none other than Mary King’s signature, I couldn’t help but smile — in my room at home I still have a post card up on my wall saying “To Georgie, Good luck. Love Mary King”! A moment I will never forget, however I doubt any of the kids really had a clue who I was, next time I think I’ll write Master Monarch, as that’s who the real star is!

So Ben will now have a few days off while I’m at Hartpury, where I am competing my six-year-old Whiskey Roo in his first CCI*, and another horse owned by Tom Attwood, the eight-year-old Highland Leopard in his first CCI**. Let’s hope I can give them the confidence and experience that Ben has given me!

I will let you know if they have both behaved next week and how Ben copes with stepping up his fitness training.

See you soon.

Georgie

Full report from the Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe in H&H this week, 12 August.

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