The forthcoming ban on young people using social media has pros and cons for the equestrian world, it is believed – and there will be opportunities as a result.

The Government announced on 15 June that the ban for under-16s would come into force next spring, with the aim to “give kids their childhoods back”.

Ministers cited evidence that social media is linked to mental health issues, and said the ban would combat exposure to dangerous content, block “addictive” activities and help prevent online bullying and grooming.

Sylvia Bruce, charity Riders Minds mental health consultant, told H&H the ban has positives and negatives for equestrians.

“Social media can create unrealistic expectations, for example about riding ability, apparel, success, body image and horse ownership,” she said. “A ban could reduce anxiety, pressure, and stress to seem perfect, and avoid harmful ‘comparison traps’.

She said a ban could help young riders focus on learning more from qualified professionals rather than copying unsuitable viral trends, adding: “Developing horsemanship skills builds confidence and resilience, supports growth, development and overall wellbeing, a win-win for both horse and rider welfare.

“A ban could help protect against pressure to take sponsorships, secure brand deals, post constantly, be exploited for profit and avoid ‘comparison traps’ with others online. Equestrian content can fuel negative comparison, online criticism and pressure for followers and likes. A ban would remove contributory factors to poor mental health, such as seeking online validation and avoiding cyberbullying.”

But, Ms Bruce added, lack of access to social media could limit community engagement, support and communication; sites can help young riders connect, and a ban could “increase isolation, loneliness and disconnection”, as well as reducing education and inclusion

Social media ban could mean less learning

“Many riders learn from online demonstrations, welfare advice, tack reviews, training ideas and event coverage,” she said. “A ban would remove valuable access to knowledge, inspiration, learning and participation opportunities, especially of marginalised groups.

“And comparison inspires and motivates too. A ban removes access to the positive, informative and encouraging voices in the equestrian community. The ban limits access to education, knowledge, growth opportunities and personal development, all vital for better mental health.”

One of the original equestrian influencers is Esme Higgs, who started sharing videos of her pony on YouTube aged 15. Ten years on, she has 1.12m subscribers.

Esme told H&H only 10% of her viewers will be affected as the rest are over 16.

“I’ve always made my content wholesome, so anyone of any age can watch it, but also, I edit and film my own videos and I’ve got to find them entertaining as well at 25!” she said.

“I find there are a lot of families that watch my videos together, which I think is so lovely; it’s something the whole family can sit down and watch and enjoy.”

Esme added that most of her videos are long-format; she said she understands the desire to ban the short-format TikTok-style clips that can be addictive but hers are more like episodes of a television show. Hers are also all on YouTube Kids, which was designed to be safer and suitable for children and is not covered by the ban.

She also pointed out Instagram already has accounts specifically for teenagers, which have more restrictions and parental control.

Unregulated alternatives

“The thing that worries me is that all these kids will probably find some alternative to talk on or post videos on, which isn’t regulated and doesn’t have these protections,” she said.

“I agree something was needed; maybe a time limit as people spend so many hours on social media rather than the real world but we’re in a cost-of-living crisis and doing things is expensive.

“I feel very conflicted; I understand how social media can be such a community for some people. For some people, they might be having a bad day or have a bad home life, and my world of ponies that they can go to after school is a safe place and educational.”

Esme added that her videos are on Spotify, and she is considering a standalone website.

PR professional and social media expert Rhea Freeman agreed that some influencers may want to consider other options.

“People who are or have a target audience under 16 need to actively look at ways to keep their audience engaged without encouraging anyone to break the law,” she told H&H. “There are plenty of ways but they’re all very different to social media because it’s likely to involve platforms such as websites owned by the influencer, which will require marketing to promote, as well as development of features people want to see, rather than posting on a busy platform to an established audience.

“For the industry in general, the same applies; brands need to start developing other areas of their marketing strategy that allow them to engage this younger audience. There’s massive opportunity here for those who do it well, through experiential marketing or hubs and safe, online spaces developed just for their audience. I think we’re also likely to see more traditional media options used by brands, because a magazine aimed at people inside this age bracket is likely to get a lot more relevant attention than posting on a platform where, legally, those people shouldn’t be anyway.”

Ms Freeman added that for brands and influencers that rely solely on social media, this is a wake-up call.

“We don’t control social media, and building an entire business and revenue stream on something that could be taken away overnight with no explanation is not a good idea,” she said. “At least with the ban, there’s a warning, so now is the time to put those plans in place and build while you can still use social media to promote what you’re doing and growing somewhere else.”

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A top showjumper has spoken up after adults made “atrocious” comments on social media about his young daughter’s success.

The multiple Olympic medallist asked people to think twice before they make negative remarks about a young girl “with big dreams”, in response to comments on a video of her success at a show.

The rider said he tries to post and comment only positive messages on social media, such as gratitude to his horses and the people he is “very blessed to have around me and who support my team and my family”.

“I’m proud to congratulate those whom we work with on their accomplishments and at times I’ve weighed in on topics I feel strongly about,” he said.

“After a very rewarding week of competing for my daughter and our family, ClipMyHorse posted a very nice recap video of her success.

“The majority of the comments were kind and positive for my daughter but there were a handful of individuals that felt the need to be negative and diminish her success because she’s my daughter, or even more shocking, because she’s my father’s granddaughter, whom she never met.

“While I never defend myself from such commentary and feel confident that my legacy and how I am judged will be on my own deeds despite my own mistakes, the fact that grown adults feel the need to make such atrocious comments about a [young girl] is quite reprehensible.”

The young rider enjoyed a successful show, winning and being placed in a variety of jumping and flat classes with her ponies. And although most people praised her results, some chose not to.

“It’s a reflection of so much of what I see in our world today, instead of celebrating each other’s growth and success we choose to tear it down,” her father said.

“I’m an adult and to some small degree a public figure. I accept that criticism of myself may be public and I can handle your opinions but I ask before commenting negatively on a [young girl] who has big horse dreams, and who may stumble upon these comments that you use some judgement and class.”

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Native ponies seem to pop up everywhere. While lovers of the variety pack of Britain and Ireland’s native breeds have always known about their hardiness, versatility and talent, the likes of equestrian influencer Harlow White’s Panda, a Connemara pony, have thrust these photogenic ponies in front of an even bigger audience.

“Owning a native pony feels like being part of history,” says Harlow. “Each native breed carries centuries of stories shaped by our landscape, climate and culture.

“I love their natural, unspoilt look. They don’t need exaggeration to stand out, rather their beauty comes from being exactly what they were bred to be.”

Panda – officially known as King Bunowen Castle Ali – is in the spotlight thanks to his eye-catching feats in the show ring last season. He stars on the cover of this week’s Horse & Hound (12 February), which includes a feature on the popularity of native breeds.

At Horse of the Year Show last October, the now 10-year-old grey claimed the Connemara pony of the year title. He’d already won the M&M young riders large breeds final before being crowned junior champion at the Royal International (RIHS) and rounded off his year with fifth in the Heritage supreme final at the London International.

But Panda isn’t the only native breed in Harlow’s stable. Besides another Connemara, she has a Shetland and her adorable Dartmoor Rolo (Coppinshill Commemoration). Together, Harlow and Rolo progressed from mini M&M to open and M&M workers classes at HOYS and victory at RIHS in 2023.

Rolo is now being ridden by Harlow’s younger brother Harlen, who is learning to showjump. It is a trajectory that highlights the longevity and adaptability native ponies can offer.

“What amazes me most about them is their versatility,” Harlow says. “They’ll turn their hoof to almost anything from showing and driving to jumping and being amazing family ponies. They really are true all-rounders. That’s why I’ll always choose a native breed.”

Native breeders have always celebrated the influence of their stock on pony breeding not just in this country but worldwide, whether it’s for top-class pony jumpers, mother-and-daughter shares or hardy types offering a more cost-effective horse-ownership option.

Not limited to mountain and moorland classes at prestigious showing championships, these versatile breeds race, event, and figure in pedigrees of FEI competitors. Increasingly, they flood the grids of social media, from cheeky Shetlands to pristine show ponies such as Harlow’s Connemara Panda – which can only be positive exposure for their future.

“Supporting native breeds feels important because it helps protect rare bloodlines and ensures these ponies continue into the future,” says Harlow, who has over 790,000 subscribers on YouTube and nearly 300,000 on Instagram. “I love how popular native ponies have become and it’s amazing to see them holding their own across so many different disciplines.”

Do you have a particular love for a native breed? Write to hhletters@futurenet.com for a chance to be published in Horse & Hound – please include your full address (town and county will be published). 

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The owner of a riding school is using the power of social media to make money – to offer free riding lessons, and fulfil a dream.

Chloe Tinson, of the family-run, British Horse Society (BHS) and Association of British Riding Schools approved Barnwell Equestrian Centre in Cornwall, has already raised hundreds of pounds, just by sharing content – and feels “the possibilities are endless”.

Ms Tinson told H&H the idea came to her at the end of last year, after she had completed her BHS business manager’s exam and was looking for a project.

“It’s like a pipe dream,” she said. “People don’t realise you can earn so much money from social media now, and I feel there’s so much good you can get from that.

“I’m one of those people who sit in bed at night ‘doom scrolling’, watching TikToks and YouTube, and I can see the good it can do. People are building houses, buying their own land; it’s about what you make from it. And was thinking ‘What else can I do to really give back, now I’ve got to a point in my own life and career, what else can I do to make it better?”

So instead of trying to make money for herself, Ms Tinson, aka Chloe in Cornwall, is focusing on benefiting others.

She said she considered creating a community interest company (CIC), a concern that benefits the community rather than stakeholders, as other riding schools have done.

“I’m not the most business savvy when it comes to money but I know I can make my own money, and if it’s on social media, it almost feels to me like free money,” she said. “And I can then use that to do something good with.”

Ms Tinson already had personal social media accounts, and some 700 followers on Instagram and 2,000 on TikTok, so she used those as her starting point.

“I thought it was going to be a lot harder; I didn’t expect it to blow up like this,” she said. “The first goal was to monetise Tiktok – we did that in three days by reaching the 10,000 followers you need to be able to start making money. Now I’m having an interview with H&H, British Showjumping has got in touch, and I’ve got an interview with the BBC next week. I feel like the possibilities are endless; you don’t know where it could go.”

Some five weeks in, Chloe in Cornwall has nearly 25,000 followers on TikTok, 14,000 on Instagram and 700 on YouTube, earning about £750. She has been posting videos on what happens at the yard, and updating on the project.

“For something I’m doing with my free time, it’s started taking up a lot of my time!” she said. “But I felt this might just snowball into something bigger and better. Getting yourself on social media opens a much bigger world out; I’ve had people from Australia, America, Sweden, even Africa, watching my videos. Everyone around the world can see what I’m trying to do; if you create a CIC, it’s much more local and people struggle to get funding or support. You have to build a community; why not build that community online?”

Ms Tinson has created an application form for prospective riders, and will post videos explaining how to apply, and the criteria for acceptance.

“I would love it to be for everyone, but we’ve got to start somewhere,” she said. “At the moment, I’m trying to get bums in saddles. It would be great to give people, maybe for the first time, a ride on a horse. Eventually, it would be great to be able to fund those people a block of six, to get to a point of hopefully trotting and getting off the lead rein.

“It’s all about making riding more accessible. It’s known to be an expensive sport, and riding schools unfortunately are going out of business. They can’t afford to put prices lower, costs have got so high. From my point of view I see both sides; riding schools struggling to stay open and so many people left out from accessing horses because they can’t afford it.

“I think everyone’s got to remember where they started from. If they had their own horses, they were very lucky. I was very lucky but I also know what horses can do for mental health and wellbeing, and it’s such a shame to know there are people who are never going to experience what horses can bring. I can’t afford to run sessions for absolutely free, but if I can fund them through social media, it just makes sense all round, doesn’t it?”

BHS head of business support Sarah Dale told H&H the Chloe in Cornwall project is a “great innovation”.

“At the BHS, we believe the equestrian world should be open to everyone, regardless of ability, background, culture or identity,” she said. “By creating spaces where we all feel welcome and connected, we can protect and strengthen the future of horses and everyone who loves them. It’s brilliant that, collectively, we’re able to utilise our riding centres to help make the future of equestrianism more inclusive.”

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Horse owners have been warned to be careful who they believe, after a controversial message was shared on social media regarding laminitis.

Vets, nutritionists and manufacturers are among those who have spoken out or contacted H&H after a barefoot advocate claimed that the painful and often fatal hoof condition is “not diet related – it is just a symptom of hoof imbalance”.

Laminitis is an inflammatory condition of the laminae, the tissue that attaches the pedal bone to the hoof wall. In extreme cases, the pedal bone can rotate so far as a result of the condition that it penetrates the sole, at which point euthanasia may be the only option. Although there can be other causes, excess weight can more than double a horse’s chance of developing it.

Independent nutritionists Clare MacLeod, Jennifer Little, Nicki Castle and Nikki Meggison were so concerned by the claim on social media, they made a joint statement to H&H.

“As qualified independent equine nutritionists, we wanted to share a warning about some potentially disastrous misinformation online stating that laminitis isn’t caused by diet,” they said. “Laminitis is a complex condition, which is not yet fully understood, but the role of diet is well established in research, clinical and practical experience. To claim otherwise is to ignore decades of scientific evidence and the daily experience of veterinary, nutrition and hoofcare professionals alike.”

Although, the nutritionists pointed out, quality regular hoofcare or farriery is vital in prevention of and recovery from laminitis, “it cannot completely protect horses from the effects of inappropriate feeding”.

“We urge owners to be cautious about online opinions, especially those that reject established science,” they said. “We encourage them to seek guidance from qualified professionals who base their advice and practice on evidence, not unproven ideology. We know that extreme views attract followers, but we also know a balanced approach is what helps our horses thrive.”

Be careful what you believe

Ms MacLeod told H&H her concern was for newer or less well informed horse owners, who may not know much about laminitis and could be swayed.

“Please don’t ignore the role of diet in laminitis, and please do be careful about who you believe on social media,” she said.

Ms MacLeod’s advice for horse owners shown or told novel information online is to check its credibility; if different experts all say the same thing, “it’s probably right”.

“All horses’ conditions can be complex and if something sounds appealing, be careful,” she said. “There’s never just one right answer, which is why these issues can be easy for people with extreme views to pick up. There are desperate owners who have tried everything to help their horses and something like this might seem light at the end of the tunnel but the fact something is so complex means anything that claims to be an easy fix should be an amber warning light, as no one has all the answers.”

British Equine Veterinary Association CEO David Mountford pointed out that no responsible horse owner would ask a stranger on Facebook to tell them how to treat their horse’s colic, and taking their advice on laminitis falls into the same category.

“Laminitis has been a concern for horse owners for centuries, so it’s inevitable it has generated much conversation,” he told H&H. “We now know that laminitis is linked to endocrine disease (insulin dysregulation) in most instances, although it may sometimes have an inflammatory/toxic or a mechanical cause instead. In these latter instances the cause is usually very evident.

“Although it might be tempting to seek opinions from ‘Dr Google’ or social media’s plethora of keyboard ‘experts’, your horse deserves prompt veterinary attention and evidence-based veterinary advice.

“If you want to dig deeper into the subject, look for scientific articles and ask yourself: ‘Who wrote this?’ (are they a qualified vet/scientist?); ‘Where was it published?’ (a scientific journal or a social feed?); ‘What evidence is it based on?’ (studies or anecdotes?); and ‘Is it recent?’ (scientific research and understanding constantly evolves).”

Vigilance urged

A few days after the post, the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) equine team also posted on social media to remind owners that they need to be vigilant at this time of year.

“The grass will continue to grow when the temperature is above 4°C, and on bright frosty mornings it will continue to make sugar but not use it up for growth, increasing the amount of sugar in each mouthful of grass,” the RVC said.

“Research has shown that 90% of cases of laminitis are associated with an underlying endocrine (hormone) disease, the two most common being equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) and pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID; also known as equine Cushing’s disease).

“In both of these diseases, it is high blood concentrations of the metabolic hormone insulin that seem to be responsible for causing the laminitis, and diet plays a big role in how much insulin there is in the blood at any given time, alongside the presence of EMS and PPID.

“It is important that animals with EMS or PPID are fed a diet low in sugar and starch and high in good-quality fibre to try and keep circulating insulin concentrations as low as possible.”

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Equestrian buyers and sellers have been warned to be aware of entering into “unintended” contracts via online messages following a recent High Court ruling.

In the case of Jaevee Homes Ltd v Fincham, the parties discussed a construction project via WhatsApp, but never signed a written contract. After a payment dispute arose later, a judge ruled that a binding contract had been formed based on these communications because essential elements of a contract were included such as an offer, acceptance and terms.

Equine lawyer Hannah Bradley, partner at Aria Grace Law CIC, told H&H that although this was not an equine case, it sets a precedent and provides “important guidance for those who negotiate sales via messaging platforms”.

“This applies for social media messaging like Facebook, WhatsApp or text; where despite the informality, you can form a legally binding contract,” she said, adding that it is common in the horse world for buyers and sellers to use these platforms to exchange photos, negotiate prices or arrange viewings and vettings.

“Aside from the risk of creating a binding contract when you don’t intend to, the further problem is, you are not necessarily confined to what you think you have agreed. There are many terms that might be implied by statutory or common law and they can all become part of the contract, which is a bit of an uncontrolled beast. You can also fail to include terms which you might have wanted to. Whereas if you have a formal written contract you can generally consider and regulate what the terms are in a bit more detail.”

Ms Bradley said a lot of legal cases arise in the equestrian world based on contracts formed via electronic communication.

“It’s obviously a time when people are excited about a new horse and want to do things quickly, and often they’re not thinking about the potential adverse consequences,” she said.

“It’s about being aware and exercising caution when you’re entering into these communications, whether you’re the buyer or seller.”

To reduce the risk of creating “unintended contracts”, Ms Bradley advises to use language to clarify that discussions are preliminary and non-binding, such as “subject to signed contract” and “pending formal agreement”. She also recommends considering independent legal advice for complex or high-value sales.

“While messaging apps provide speed and convenience, they also demand care. Every message could be relied on at a later date whether it be to prove a contract, or in respect of a dispute post sale,” she said.

“Once preliminary negotiations are complete, send a formal written contract via email or signed on paper in person. That contract should set out all the key terms, and contain warranties that are important to either party. By using cautious language and moving to formal agreements when appropriate, you can protect yourself from accidental commitments.”

British Horse Society director of horse care and welfare Gemma Stanford told H&H it is “incredibly important” to draw up a formula agreement when buying a horse.

“While fast communication tools such as text conversations are convenient, they’re no substitute for well drafted contracts. It’s the only way for everyone to be completely explicit on what has been agreed,” she said.

“We advise you to clearly state the terms and conditions the horse was purchased under, including arrangements regarding a deposit and the circumstances in which this deposit should be returned. Make sure both parties sign the document, to avoid any disputes. We know that it can be a daunting process, but there are many tools to support people with drafting a contract.”

Ms Stanford added that the BHS offers a sales agreement service to its members to assist with pulling together a “fool-proof” sales contract.

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In this day and age, equestrian social media has its own bespoke landscape. There are entire corners of the internet devoted to us, fuelled by hashtags and algorithms that serve a curated menu of horsey posts directly to your feed. If you need a laugh, advice, inspiration or a life hack, there’s an equestrian social media destination for you.

Of course, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Snapchat all come with their downsides. You might be on the receiving end of some unsolicited feedback, feel the uncomfortable pang of FOMO, or even engage in a bit of doomscrolling when it comes to equestrian media. It’s far from a perfect world. Nonetheless, it’s one a great many of us are part of, and will be for the foreseeable.

That said, we want to keep things light for the purpose of this post. Equestrian social media habits can be fun, quirky and eyeroll-inducing – which of these cute or toe-curling customs have you partaken of online?

Equestrian social media habits we all recognise

1. Staying up until 3am after hitting a rich seam of entertaining Instagram reels – it’s so hard to stop the scroll!

2. Sending said reels to your friends so they wake up to an inbox full of unhinged posts that made 3am you giggle.

3. Adding a newly appointed panel judge on Facebook before the season starts and ensuring you like all their status updates.

4. Posting a “wanted” advert for a new horse when you are in no financial position to buy one.

5. Tagging your friend in the comments on Facebook ads for horses you are both in no financial position to buy.

6. Posting in a Facebook community group asking what to feed your horse instead of speaking to a qualified nutritionist.

7. Asking that question as an anonymous member.

8. Sharing every single competition post you find across social media platforms, whether it is for a new numnah or a new horsebox. Got to be in it to win it!

9. Wondering if you might be over-posting your horse as you upload the fourth Insta story update of the day and third grid post of the week.

10. Starting an equestrian-specific Instagram account so your excessive posts find the right audience.

11. Wondering if, actually, you could start monetising your new account. You spend hours making your horse do super cute, funny or impressive things for a constant stream of reels.

12. Investing in an influencer kit that comes with a tripod and accessories like this one on Amazon or this top-rated 360º camera to give said reels an extra flavour of professionalism.

13. Committing to this for a while but ultimately deciding to return to spamming your original account with your horse. It’s your page, you’ll post what you want!

14. Sharing advice on a post in your local horsey group, then accidentally entering into a three-hour debate that you cannot leave until you feel you’ve really made your point.

15. Making a very cheeky offer on a second-hand saddle you spotted for sale.

16. Posting a story update about your competition win before you have rung your mum or dad. Or, in fact, have even dismounted from the horse.

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Esme Higgs needs little introduction in the equestrian world. Known to millions as This Esme, the 23-year-old has been carving out a unique space in the digital landscape for the past decade, making informative yet relatable content about horses.

What started as a pony-mad teenager’s video diary has evolved into a full-blown equestrian media identity – but at its core, Esme’s mission remains the same: to educate, entertain, and inspire a love of horses.

Now with a book series (more on the forthcoming fourth instalment later), a podcast, and several ambassador roles under her belt, Esme continues to champion horses and the people who love and care for them.

In the run-up to Horse & Hound’s first junior special (in shops from Thursday, 5 June), Esme opens up about the early days of her channel, what life with ponies has taught her, and why she believes accessibility and welfare should be at the heart of the horse world’s future.

Horse & Hound’s interview with This Esme

H&H: How did horses come into your life?

Esme: I was very lucky to grow up in the countryside, where the local riding school used to ride past my mum and dad’s house. My parents were completely non-horsey, but I started having lessons at the riding school at a very young age of five.

H&H: What were your horsey dreams in the early days?

Esme: I just always wanted to feel like a proper horse person. I had a lot of impostor syndrome being born into a non-horsey family though I was very lucky to get my own pony when I was only eight or nine.

I went to Pony Club, but it was the little things like my friends’ parents riding their ponies while they were at school, so at the weekend they’d be lovely and well-schooled. I could see a lot of my peers had a leg-up with their parents helping them or having a string of many different ponies, when that wasn’t a reality for me. From a young age, it was all down to me.

So I was all about wanting to be a proper horse person – competing wasn’t the be-all and end-all because I didn’t see a pathway where I could be successful. What I loved most was forming a partnership with my horses. I had an incredible bond with my first pony, Mickey, who we sadly don’t have any more. And that, for me, is worth a lot more.

H&H: How did the YouTube content start?

Esme: I posted a few videos of my Connemara pony Casper, who I got when I was 11 or 12. My parents’ budget for a pony at that stage was not very big, so he was very green. Looking back, it probably wasn’t the best combination – a young child trying to produce a young pony – but it was all our budget could stretch to. But Casper was actually the reason I started my YouTube channel because I would post videos of our progress.

It started like a video diary because my phone wasn’t very good, so when I’d run out of storage, I thought “I’ll post it on to YouTube. It’ll be safe there. I don’t have to worry about storage problems on my phone.” And it also meant that my grandparents and family who lived far away could see what I was getting up to with the horses.

I never imagined that it would become a full-time job – I never thought there’d be enough horse people out there to watch my videos.

H&H: How influential is your own background in the content you create?

Esme: I guess it’s why I ended up deciding to create my YouTube channel and my books as well. I felt that the pony books I read were often about people born into a horsey family, growing up with their own ponies.

When I started making videos, “how to tack up a horse” was one of my first because I was thinking of people who weren’t from a horsey background, maybe just learning to ride at a riding school. I thought that even if just one person out there that was like me could watch this video and it could help them learn more about horses, that would be brilliant.

With the Starlight Stables Gang, I wanted to create a book where people aren’t from a horsey background, they come from different backgrounds and families, and all come together with the common love of horses. That was really important to me, because I felt like there weren’t many children’s books like that on the market.

H&H: Do you compete at all?

Esme: I used to, but since doing my channel, I haven’t really had the opportunity. When there are horse shows on, I tend to be working at them – presenting, doing social media coverage, meet and greets or book signings.

Maybe I’ll go back to it one day, but at the moment I’m so busy doing so many other different things that I’m just enjoying my horses, taking them to arena hires, or for hacks and gallops in the forest.

But also, I think there are so many people out there that are competing and doing an excellent job at it. I know I’m not going to end up at the Olympics. That’s something I wanted to get across with my channel. When I was growing up, the top riders you would look up to would be Olympians. For most people, that’s not possible but still to own a horse is to be in a very privileged position.

So my channel is a bit more real: me at home at the stables, mucking out, basic horse care. And for a lot of young children, the dream is just to be able to loan a pony or own a horse one day. Their dreams aren’t to go to the Olympics.

So I think it’s important to show not only that, yes, it’s super fun going out competing, but also there are so many things that you can do with horses, with non-ridden ones as well.

H&H: So what is your favourite thing to do with horses?

Esme: I would say, honestly, just hanging out with them because I’m very lucky that they’re at my parents’ farm. I can see them from the window right now.

And as I’ve got older, I’ve really appreciated how incredible hacking is. I’m very lucky that it’s not too far away to take my horses to the beach, which is lovely on a summer’s day, or take them to the forest or on the hills.

A lot of people forget how important it is for enrichment for horses, to give them that incredible life and experience. I know hacking is definitely among my horses’ favourite things to do.

H&H: How many horses do you have?

Esme: I have my main horse, Joey, who I’ve been producing since he was five and he’s now 11. Then I have my Connemara Casper, who’s a bit older now, so he’s my happy hacker. And we have little Duke, who is a companion pony from World Horse Welfare.

H&H: With your high profile comes a lot of responsibility, how do you deal with that?

Esme: This is something I realised from a very young age. When I was about 16 and had been posting videos for a couple of years an American family emailed me. They said they weren’t interested in horses initially but their daughter started watching my videos because she liked animals. After a couple of years watching my channel, they’d moved from the city to the countryside and now have horses at a ranch.

Their whole life has changed just because of my channel. It was then that it really hit me that, “oh, wow, these videos are affecting people’s lives”. It’s incredible to hear of all the positive stories people tell me that come just from watching a girl on YouTube talk about ponies.

So while I was still a child, I realised that I needed to be really responsible. There’s a bit of pressure, but it’s also a lovely thing because I’ve been able to talk about the charities that I work for, such as World Horse Welfare, and to show the positives of owning horses.

H&H: Tell us more about the Starlight Stables Gang and your upcoming book.

Esme: They are stories with real-life inspiration, for instance World Horse Welfare and a charity riding school, Team Tutsham and the Riding for the Disabled Association – with kids from lots of different backgrounds.

A lot of pony books are a bit fluffy, but I like my books to be about real-life issues. They’re not only for people who love horses and come from a horsey background, but also for the child that knows nothing about horses but loves animals, and can maybe see a bit of themselves in the characters and the struggles they go through.

One of the main characters, Ellie, is a wheelchair user – it was important for me to show that horse riding can be for everyone. I’ve got to say she’s my favourite character! She’s loud, bubbly, very confident, and cheers up the rest of the gang when things are hard. That’s a lovely thing to have in a friend.

There’s a little bit of me in all of the characters, but probably most of all in Summer – we’re both dyslexic. Puffin helped me pick a dyslexic-friendly font to help children like me! And I’m very lucky to have had an author as good as Jo Cotterill to collaborate and help me on this journey.

H&H: Where can we see you over the summer?

Esme: I’ve got a new series coming out this summer, the Pony Care series. I’m carrying on with my podcast, which I love, as well as a bit of work outside of the horse world – in fashion and the beauty industry.

I am also working at a lot of horse shows this summer: Aachen and the European Championships at Blenheim.

It’s exciting to have lots of different projects – and a few secret ones that I can’t talk about!

H&H: You sound so busy – do you still have time for your horses?

Esme: I’m very lucky that the way that my work works is that if I am away for a horse show, it’s only a day or two. So those days my horses have days off and every other day I’m in the office at home or at the stables filming. So I can usually ride six days a week. Any chance I get to ride, I’m riding!

• The Pony Whisperer is the fourth book in the Starlight Stables Gang series, published by Puffin. It is due to be released in autumn 2025 – look out for the H&H review.
• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

The Starlight Stables Gang by Esme Higgs

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In a very literal sense, horses are influencers. If you own, share or regularly ride one, chances are they “influence” a lot of your choices and spending habits. In this digital age, though, “influencer” means something entirely different. Nowadays, you’re most likely to hear the term in reference to someone with a popular social media account, with regular posts and thousands of followers, likes and comments.

Influencers are practically inescapable if you have social media, and cover a wide range of lifestyles and topics, from parenting to tidying and travel to dog training. You might have made your horse an Instagram account at some point, but what would happen if he had the login details? Would he soon have a large following?

One thing’s certain: you don’t amass millions of likes overnight. Becoming a successful equestrian influencer takes time, a high content output and close adherence to the latest social media trends. If your horse wanted to quit his day job and become a full-time influencer he’d need to be entertaining, relatable and aspirational. Here’s how I think horse influencers would do it…

Step 1: #SocialMediaChallenge

The first thing your horse will need to do is go viral. Remember the ice bucket challenge that gripped social media globally back in 2014? If your horse could pull off a similar feat, it would kick-start his influencer campaign. I’m thinking something along the lines of #DestroyYourRug challenge, or #PooInYourWaterBucket – that way he’ll tap into the humour factor of annoying his owner.

To truly follow in the ice bucket challenge’s footsteps, your horse will need to pick a charity to support and encourage others participating to donate. Being an influencer isn’t just about being popular. Your horse needs to give back, too!

Step 2: Hop on a dance trend

Your horse needs to keep finding his way to social media feeds, so a viral dance trend is the way to go. Is it too late to jump on the Apple dance? Does he need to start his own routine? Don’t be surprised if he asks for help Googling songs with “horse” in them…

Step 3: Show some personality

Once the follow count starts to rack up, your horse needs to reveal a bit more of who he is. Influencers love making vlogs showing their day-to-day lives and habits, so the most feasible option would be a yard tour or a “get ready with me” video. He’ll need to get a good shot of the arena (the home working space) and your lorry (his private, chauffeur-driven transport) as well as show off all his latest must-haves, like his matching saddle cloth and fly veil and automatic water dispenser. Human influencers love to lug around huge bottles of water – perhaps hydration would be equally important for horse influencers?

Step 4: Call me chef

You’ve heard of the expression “eat like a horse”? Well, your horse has just uploaded his go-to super-balanced high-fibre recipe – aka, his bucket feed. Of course, his personal chef (you) prepared this one for him, and he’s reviewing each mouthful. “The calmer really comes through to balance with the notes of garlic granule…” etc.

Step 5: Unboxing deliveries and rug hauls

Taking yet another idea from the human world, your horse might have a few more packages arriving to unbox on camera. Supplements, stable toys, you name it! One shipment is a rug for every season, which feels a little ironic given his #DestroyYourRug challenge origins. He’s got sponsors now – and discount codes to pass on to followers!

Step 6: Prank show

It can sometimes feel like our horses are pranking us without even trying. Unfortunately, horse influencers do it for views and likes. Tipping wheelbarrows, refusing to be caught, doing that unnerving thing where he lies flat on his side and remains motionless even when you yell his name… all of it’s a real test of your body’s ability to handle adrenaline.

Step 7: Cancelled!

Just when you thought you were in this fame thing together! Your horse’s latest upload is calling for you, his owner, to be cancelled. On what charge? Swapping him from “cool and condition” mix to a more basic grass nut. Apparently this is somewhat akin to fat-shaming. That’s odd – you just thought it was spring!

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Although Milly Dove hasn’t competed as much as she would have hoped in 2024, her future in dressage looks incredibly promising. She embodies the next generation of welfare-conscious, social media-savvy riders coming through – with her compassionate approach to dressage earning her over 82,000 followers on Instagram.

“I’ve always loved dressage,” Milly says. “I grew up in a British Dressage centre called East Soley, which my parents ran for 25 years, and from the age of 10, I was helping school and back ponies for clients.

“My family was never in a position to buy ready-made horses, but I’ve still been incredibly lucky. I did working hunters, a lot of side-saddle growing up, but it wasn’t until I was around 14 that I say I got my first nice, dressage horse.

“I had a normal Instagram account back then but my friends were getting sick of hearing about my horses, so I made my own horse account and I basically just put up what we did each day.

“I was obsessed with training – I still am – and looking back at videos my Dad must have got so annoyed at me asking him to video me constantly. But I’d love to get videos to see what I could work on and I loved seeing the progress day-to-day and other people seemed to as well, and it took off from there.”

At 23 years old, Milly is preparing to move to her own 12-stable yard – a milestone she says wouldn’t have been possible without Instagram. However, she acknowledges that the platform might not be the right fit for everyone.

“I think there are very few downsides, but you need to stay humble because people will call you out on things.

“Sometimes you think, ‘Oh, there was no need to comment that,’ but often it’s the kick up the arse you need to fix something, like my legs or whatever. That said, there are times when it’s easier to just delete the comment and move on with your day.”

Her advice for others looking to build an online presence?

“Post regular, high-quality videos – phone footage is fine – and be honest in your captions. If your horse looks tight or overbent, say so.

“I find people really appreciate authenticity and openness about things like that. No one’s perfect and I think it’s really important, especially with what’s going on in the dressage world, that if you can see a problem you comment on it, and show people that it’s something that’s being worked on and that you’re aware, and that you’re not presenting it as the ideal end goal.”

Milly Dove: “I’d love to ride for my country”

Milly’s Instagram has not only helped her attract sponsorships but also proved to be a lifeline when it came to keeping her top ride, Jaguar VOD (Olaf).

“His story is a bit special,” Milly says, “because he’d actually already been sold when I first enquired about him. I’d seen his advert six months earlier and fell in love with him and had just been following him but when I came to message he was sold. Then, last minute the buyers pulled out, and I thought ‘Tough luck to them because he’s amazing’.

“He did then deck me twice within the first week, and we’ve had our problems, but he is an incredible horse and he makes all the mucking out worth it.

“But later down the line his owners decided to sell, and he was worth a lot of money, which I’d never have been able to put down if it wasn’t for Lana Zavada of Phillyrides and my trainer, Mary Wanless, who not only taught me to ride but also truly believes in me.”

Milly has known Mary for nearly her entire life and describes her as both her inspiration and the foundation of her riding ethos. However, Milly’s connection with Lana began through social media.

Lana is prominent on Instagram herself but had to take a break from professional riding when war broke out in her native Ukraine.

“But I always knew I was meant to be with horses,” Lana says. “I also wanted to create a kind of business that would require utilising my expertise in equestrian sport.

“Yet my initial business ideas did not seem to quite cover this last part. Nevertheless, I secured funding to kickstart my venture. And shortly after, the universe finally knocked on my door: by sheer coincidence I stumbled upon the news that the rider who has been inspiring me over the years sought new owners to keep the ride on her main horse.

“This is when all the pieces fell into place. I have always been driven by the conviction that the welfare of the horse must always be paramount. Witnessing the ongoing battle against horse mistreatment in recent years, I realised that aggression, even when well-intentioned, does not lead to change.

“I felt that the best way to promote this change was to set an example, demonstrating that ethical horsemanship is not only crucial but also leads to success. And in my eyes, there was no better candidate for this role than Milly.”

Through Phillyrides, Lana partnered with Mary and a syndicate of additional owners to purchase Olaf, ensuring Milly could keep him while helping foster a new generation of riders committed to ethical training methods.

“Lana understands the difficulties a lot of riders coming up like me have and if it hadn’t been for her I wouldn’t have been able to keep Olaf,” explains Milly. “I know in the future she’ll want to help other young riders keep their rides on horses and improve the sport.”

Now established at small tour, Milly has big ambitions for 2025. “I’d love to ride for my country in the next year or two,” she says. “A CDI has been on my list of would-love-to-dos since about the age of 10 but I’ve never had the horse power until now.

“But dressage is so hard – there’s always so much to learn – test riding is something I’ve got a bit out of practise with, but I’m excited to be back out there and working towards being as perfect as we can be, and to have happy, healthy horses. If they could all keep their four legs intact then I’d be very grateful!”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout all the major shows in 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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Equestrians have been urged to be on the alert for another potential Facebook scam, after a flurry of fake event profiles have been set up.

Common scams on social media include profiles purporting to offer live streams of major events, in an attempt to secure customers’ card details, but in these more recent cases, people are sent friend requests from profiles calling themselves the Hickstead Derby Meeting, for example, or Royal Windsor Horse Show. These should be reported and blocked.

A spokesman for Hickstead told H&H: “We wish the social media platforms would all try to do more to decrease the amount of spammers and scammers that are flooding the equestrian pages. No matter how many we block and report, we keep seeing more and more fake pages and profiles purporting to be Hickstead.”

The spokesman said that the pages steal Hickstead’s content and text in an attempt to make themselves look legitimate.

“Our concern is that people might be duped into scams such as clicking on fake ticketing or live-stream links,” she said. “We recommend blocking all these fake pages, and reporting them to Facebook – hopefully if enough people do this, they might actually take action.

“Hickstead does not have any profiles except our main page, the Hickstead competitors group and our official event pages, and these are linked from our main Facebook page. If in doubt, always search for ticketing or live-stream links using the official event website, and before you join an event page on Facebook, look at who is hosting – if it sounds a bit suspicious, it’s very likely to be fake.”

A spokesman for Royal Windsor and the London International Horse Show (LIHS) told H&H social media scammers are a “constant problem” for both events.

“While we do everything we can to keep on top of fake pages and profiles stealing our images and logos, we do encourage fans of both shows to stay vigilant,” she said. “Neither show will ever send friend requests to anyone, or create any Facebook events – so please report pages that do. 

“The easiest way to see if the pages are real at a glance are by numbers of followers – on Facebook, the real LIHS page has 120,000 followers, the real Royal Windsor Horse Show page has 81,000 followers. We are also very grateful to those who take a moment to report fake pages to Meta – which hugely helps our efforts.”

A spokesman for Facebook refused to comment on the new ability to have more than one profile on the same account, which it said at launch would allow people to keep work and personal lives separate, for example, or on the complaint that reporting fake pages has no effect. 

H&H understands that accounts impersonating others go against Facebook’s community guidelines, that they are removed if reported, and that owner Meta works with law enforcement to keep scammers away from the platform.

Detective inspector Dan Giannasi from the North West Cyber Resilience Centre told H&H social media scams are very common.

“It’s easy for criminals to create many accounts that appear like legitimate organisations or events,” he said. “It’s crucial to stop and think before engaging with anyone online, especially if you don’t know them or it’s an unsolicited request. Don’t share any personal information or financial details until you are sure it’s genuine.”

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Olympian Laura Tomlinson shares her views on why we need to be more compassionate online

I am delighted to say, following a brilliantly organised regional championships at Wellington, that we have three home-bred horses qualified for the winter dressage championships. Sarah Rogers and I will be contesting the prix st georges with Forest Hill and Full Moon II respectively and Sarah will also be riding Viva Lotta in the inter I. We are excited to see what the venue change brings, having been spoilt with Hartpury for many years. But I am sure that Addington will make for a cracking championships too.

I am excited for the 2024 season, but I must admit that it’s not without trepidation that I venture to some of these higher-level shows with spectators. There has been so much acrimony on social media and I feel for any rider who has been caught up in the mud-slinging.

Sadly, with the recent abuse cases that surfaced abroad, all competitive equestrians have now been tarred with the same brush.

The line between abuse and riding a horse in the wrong frame seems to have merged. Can any rider say that they have never had a horse get tight in the neck and behind the vertical in certain situations? Yet this seems to be the new standard for whether a rider is abusive or not.

Change is needed

Riders are judged on still shots or a minute of training, sometimes while clearly dealing with an issue, and brutally slandered online. It’s heartbreaking to see the online equestrian world tear the sport down with self-righteous comments. However, I can say, hand on heart, that the majority of riders at the elite level that I have seen in all my years – whether they ride with a different style to me, or with a more a commercial focus – all love and respect their horses.

If you ask 10 coaches how to warm up, rug, feed or do anything else to the same horse, you’ll get 10 different answers.

If we don’t learn to be more respectful towards one another and more understanding of each other’s problems, we will eliminate our sport. Horse abuse should not be tolerated in any way, while most elite horses work for only 40 minutes a day and are so loved.

I hope that both elite and amateur riders can continue to compete and work on and through their problems at shows to progress – whatever their level – without being shamed for a small moment that is often not at all representative of that combination as a whole.

Reward correct training

Meanwhile, it’s imperative that judges must go back to rewarding correctness according to the scales of training – even if this messes up the expected line-up. If a horse is going correctly and is expressive, then it is worth the really big marks. If a rider achieves the spectacular but has lost the correctness and the judges mark accordingly, then maybe the online masses will feel less need to abuse. Maybe also that rider can then continue to work on their issues until improvement is seen, without being called an abuser.

That follows on to the issues with horses that I am working with. Tension in competition environments that I thought I’d sorted at home continues to plague me with some horses. But I’ve found that groundwork has helped me understand my horses’ issues better. Those that I have acquired rather than bred often bring baggage that is harder to understand as I am not aware of the origins of the issues. The groundwork helps release tension and helps the horse understand how to cope with external pressures. The tricky step is translating in-hand progress to work under saddle and then, competition environments.

That’s my current project, to unlock the potential in some horses who can be superstars but need to process their tension better, which I am sure many an online expert would have plenty to say about.

● Do you feel trepidation ahead of competing in public? Write to us at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, for the chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 14 March

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The FEI has told H&H that updates to its policy on filming at certain shows are to protect broadcasting agreements – and “are in no way an attempt to censor or prohibit transparency”.

This week confusion has arisen online following updates to the FEI’s social media guidelines at “FEI named events”. Although this policy is not new, concerns have been raised by some that they could have an impact on openness in the industry.

FEI named events include World and European Championships, World Cups, Nations Cups, and the Longines League of Nations, and the guidelines apply to “non-rights holders”’ such as riders, rider support personnel such as grooms, owners, national federations, officials and accredited media. The policy relates to content published on websites, blogs, social media, and mobile apps.

The guidelines state that live streaming of field of play footage during the competition and capturing video of field of play footage and posting later are forbidden in all cases on all platforms – but riders may share footage of their own rounds on their own social media that has been provided exclusively by the FEI only. Still images can be posted without restriction. It is also forbidden to film and sell footage or to “otherwise commercially exploit footage”.

H&H contacted the FEI for clarification on the updated guidelines, and an FEI spokesman confirmed that the reason for revising the existing guidelines was to “bring them up to date and provide more clarity around who can post at FEI named events”.

“It’s important to highlight this aspect of ‘FEI named events’, as there are many equestrian events around the world that follow FEI rules, but these guidelines [only] refer to the likes of the World Cup, Nations Cup, etc. These are the events that have broadcasting agreements in place between the FEI and third-party broadcasters,” he said.

“At these events, the rights to film and broadcast moving images are sold to broadcasters, so they have exclusive rights to the footage and to televise the competitions in their respective territories around the world. Therefore, the FEI needs to restrict access to field of play footage to ‘rights holding broadcasters’ (RHB) only; this is to ensure compliance with the FEI’s media rights contracts with those RHBs.

“This is standard practice across sports media.”

The spokesman added that in terms of the updates, references in the previous policy to non-rights holding media being able to post some short clips of the field of play to their own Instagram channels have now been removed “to be in line with the contractual agreements”.

“This restriction, while it has created some controversy, is standard industry practice in sports, and you will find similar regulations apply to many other sporting events,” the spokesman said. 

“If anyone sees behaviour they have a concern about at an FEI event, including named events, there is no issue with the person filming it. We strongly encourage anyone who has observed concerning behaviour to report it by sharing footage directly with the FEI for follow-up.”

H&H asked how the guidelines will be enforced and the spokesman said that the FEI realises “this is difficult”, as non-rights holding media can film footage on smartphones and upload to channels without anyone knowing, so the FEI will distribute the guidelines to FEI named events to share onsite. The FEI will request that social media platforms remove content that breaches copyright, and may request show organisers to remove an outlet or person’s accreditation at the event, or future events.

The spokesman said that the FEI wants to “emphasise that these guidelines are in no way an attempt to censor anyone or prohibit transparency at events”.

“They are in place to ensure the rights of RHBs are fully respected,” he said.

“The athletes can post their rounds on their social media, and the national federations can post all their athletes’ rounds. So in effect, all the rounds could be posted online as long as they follow these guidelines, which would also remove the issue of people uploading footage for their own commercial gains.”

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

In his exclusive Horse & Hound magazine column, Adam Cromarty shares his thoughts on how riders can attract sponsors via social media content

There has been little reprieve from the cost-of-living crisis and it feels like competing at any level is more costly than ever before.

Unless a rider is independently wealthy, travelling internationally and running a string of horses is reliant on support of some kind, and most riders look to secure sponsorship. The same is true for events. Even at a lower level, shows are on a continual search for corporate backing to prop up a business model that seems less and less viable.

In years gone by, I can remember some key rider sponsorship pairings that helped pave the way for great results. This support would have been secured through developing personal relationships along with strong, consistent competition placings. The same is true for key events, many of which now change their title sponsor on an annual basis.

Like it or not, brands and businesses are looking more to those with a strong social following. This is good news for those open-minded and willing to invest some time. The even better news is that it doesn’t mean doing TikTok dances.

Almost every key demographic is absorbing digital content, with the average person spending 28 hours a week on their phone. It still surprises me that television channels can achieve exorbitant amounts for advertising. My parents have muted the ads for years and can you honestly say you haven’t picked up your mobile during ad breaks?

Worth the time

A few weeks ago, I was working with those on the British Equestrian World Class pathway. It was an interesting day, with a few different speakers. I provided group sessions on how to give the best interviews and talked about being on camera to support their own profiles. I think our federation must be applauded for offering this training, as many of its global counterparts don’t.

Part of the discussion included the importance for professional athletes of creating content. One rider mentioned how packed her day was and that it was difficult to find time. However, when asked if tens of thousands of pounds would convince her, I think she was swayed.

There are influencers within the equestrian industry who have been able to buy a house using the proceeds of their content. Some have never competed to any real level and occasionally their advice on horse care can be dubious at best. They have a fraction of the opportunities available to those with multiple horses to ride everyday and who regularly travel to competitions. Yet they are being paid more than most would earn by selling a good horse per week.

It’s a new world and we’re never going to devolve backwards. There will be some old-school riders who think it’s nonsense and I get that. For those who have tried and given up after a month, I must ask how long their equestrian skills took to learn. Nothing worth doing is easy, and content creation does take work.

A world of possibilities

Building an online community is about giving value and building engagement. If a rider only posts about their results or an event solely uses their platforms to sell tickets then they will not reap the rewards, no matter how often they post.

My media company works with clients on both sides of the Atlantic and while we can offer glossy production and a water bucket full of strategy, for those starting I can give you the best website to use. It’s called Google. Searching for the best practices when posting to each platform would get you up and running.

Other sports are way ahead on this and we need to do better, from British Showjumping as a governing body to our events and athletes. If a tennis player can create content using a racket and ball, think what could be achieved with a yard full of horses and the goings on, from mucking out through to night checks at the yard.

There’s no expense and no barrier to entry. So pick up your phone and start creating, there is nothing to lose and a whole world of possibilities to explore.

● Do you agree with Adam that riders are missing out on an opportunity? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, for the chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 22 February

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Concerns have been raised about continued “misinformation” being shared in the horse world – and the “very real threat” this poses to equine welfare.

The British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) said false information is a “known phenomenon” on social media, and highlighted that the safety and suitability of feed ingredients, and topical applications such as fly repellents, get “a lot of attention”.

“It is causing confusion and uncertainty among owners who are receiving factually incorrect advice in a range of areas,” said a BETA spokesman.

“In conditions where medicines and treatments may not always be effective, owners understandably seek alternative solutions and may be tempted by exaggerated product claims. The irony is often that ingredients that are generally safe attract negative attention because information from studies is taken out of context.”

BETA chief executive Claire Williams told H&H that on social media “everyone seems to be an expert”, so people are taking advice online instead of contacting qualified nutritionists or vets.

“It’s a concern because when people don’t follow the right information, they could potentially end up harming their horses instead of helping them,” she said. “If someone claims to be an expert, it’s not surprising people believe what they’re told. It’s ensuring that people go to sources that they can trust, and that those people have the appropriate qualifications.

“Our manufacturers and members are controlled by a lot of legislation and they do their very best to place products on the market that are appropriate and safe, so we get worried when people take advice on social media and decide to feed something that may not be safe.”

Clare Barfoot, nutritionist and Mars Horsecare marketing and research and development director, told H&H some common myths around feed ingredients include that soya and alfalfa are bad for horses prone to gastric ulceration – when studies have proven this to be untrue.

“Now that we live in this world of social media, misinformation circulates a lot quicker than it did before. It’s a bit like wildfire,” she said.

“A nutritionist is not a protected profession, so anyone can say, ‘I’m a nutrition expert’. These people may be giving their personal opinion or they’ve read an article or scientific paper and misinterpreted it, and so they spread a lot of quite scary incorrect information, and it’s a snowball effect.

“Owners want the best for their horses – and when something is wrong they naturally want to seek a solution, so they might go to Google or social media and decide they need to buy X product because it’s going to present a cure. But unless it’s a licensed drug, it can’t.”

Ms Barfoot added that there is also a misconception that “natural always equals good”.

“That’s not always the case,” she said. “Just because something is natural it can still cause a horse harm – or at the very least, people could be wasting money buying products that just aren’t going to work.”

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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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A tiny rider who went viral when she jumped her dad’s 17hh stallion over a 1.20m oxer now has 100,000 YouTube subscribers, is aiming for a million – and may be helping the future of horse sport.

H&H reported last year on the video of Ivy Thomas-Cook, then six, clearing a fence 5cm taller than she was on her father Ben’s Crown’s Ace Of Pearl, and wanting to go bigger.

“It all went from there, really,” Ben told H&H. “It’s not just the stallion, it’s videos of her ponies too. Sometimes a video goes viral and then nothing comes of it but we thought what if we just keep posting videos and see what happens? So we did.”

Ivy and Ben have since been updating the “jumping with Ivy” channel on YouTube, and TikTok and Instagram. Late last year, Ivy hit the magical 100,000 subscribers figure, for which YouTube awards a play button trophy.

“All her accounts are huge,” Ben said. “I think it’s her size and age and what she’s doing; she doesn’t let her size or age be a barrier to her doing things. And we let her! I’ve had friends say ‘You let her loose with that stallion’, but I’m happier when she’s on him than when she’s on any other pony.”

Ben said one major consideration with the channel is “keeping it real”, so sharing the bad days as well as the successes.

“We’ve posted ‘Yes, she fell off, but it happens’,” he said. “All the top guys will fall off at some point. I remember an interview where someone said to AP MCoy that he was the most successful jumps jockey and he said ‘That’s because I’m the biggest loser’. That stuck with me because to win everything, you have to lose everything.

“People say they like following us because they see when it doesn’t go right, and then when it does. I think it’s really important to keep it real, as everyone has bad days.”

Ben said Ivy loves making and posting the videos, and watching them afterwards; he said she grew up watching more YouTube than children’s television, and suggested the channel in the first place.

There have been some nasty comments made about Ivy on some videos, which Ben said are hard to take although they are a very small minority.

“I really struggle with that,” he said. “The nasty ones are probably less than one in 100 but when you moderate, you see 99 saying ‘Love you, Ivy’ but one saying ‘Spoilt brat’ and that’s what you focus on. That’s the one that gets me; she is lucky but she’s a lovely, polite kid, who’s never in trouble.

“I don’t get jealousy; I’d be more ‘I want to do that, so how can I make it happen?’ not make comments like that. You could have all the money in the world but without the work, the blood, sweat and tears, you’d never get anywhere.”

Ben said Ivy was aware of the button trophy, and that they reached the milestone when they were at a show. Unknown to Ivy, he arranged for it to be presented to her by commentator John Stokes at an Onley Grounds prizegiving just before Christmas.

“It’s a difficult thing to get, I think only something like 0.27% of people on YouTube actually get it,” Ben said. “Ivy has no idea what 100,000 means in numbers but she knows it’s a really big thing. She had no idea it would be presented at the show and when they brought it out, her jaw dropped.”

Ben added that Ivy’s channel has helped inspire people to start riding, and he also hopes it may help with public perception. He cited recent surveys commissioned by World Horse Welfare showing that some 40% of people would only support involvement of horses in sport if their welfare improved.

“I think because she’s so tiny, even on the ponies, people can see the horses are doing it because they love it,” he said. “I think that maybe comes across better because of her size than it does in top-level sport shown on television, and maybe people realise the horses love what they’re doing.

“A lot of comments are from people saying they don’t have animals but the videos have inspired them to start riding, it’s maybe ‘If that little girl can do it, and is so passionate, I can do it too’, and that’s what sells the sport.”

Ben added that the plan is to keep doing what they do.

“The next play button award is for a million subscribers, and that’s what she wants to get to!” he said.

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Sponsoring riders used to be a key part of many brand’s marketing strategies, but with the rise of influencers, and some brands nailing their own social media, it’s no longer such an obvious choice, leading many to ask: are riders doing enough to support the brands they are working with?

In fact, with many brands scrutinising the return on investment that sponsoring a rider can bring, there are an increasing number moving away from professional riders because it’s believed that their riders are not doing enough to support them in return.

Before we delve into this further, it’s important to be clear on what “support” means. This isn’t about a professional rider’s dedication to their sport or their horses. It’s not about having a logo on saddlepads/lorries/arenas. This is about the regular support that’s shown through social media platforms and beyond – being a real cheerleader for the brand. It isn’t just tagging a list of sponsors on any generic post that’s shared, it’s considered posts sharing a product in action, explaining how a brand/product/service adds to a rider’s life and why. It’s authentic promotion and endorsement.

These posts are missing from many a professional rider’s social media schedule, and it is becoming more evident when influencers, brand ambassadors, and even customers do more and deliver more in terms of exposure and referrals.

As Claire Allmett, head of marketing for Saracen Horse Feeds, says: “The marketing landscape has changed a lot over the years, and riders need to be aware of this.

“Finding the right promotional mechanism for each rider will dictate the success of the relationship, whether its images, blogs, socials, appearances, videos or competitions. The list is endless and riders should be clear on what they are comfortable to offer, which inevitably will yield the best results.”

Maeve Sheridan is the founder of Activate Your Seat. She opts to support amateur riders because, for her, it provides more value for her business.

“I feel the main thing the riders worry about is their results, as they feel pressure to perform well for their sponsors,” says Maeve. “As a small business, this isn’t my priority. I just want them to behave kindly towards their horses and other competitors, and to show on social media how and why they use my programme.”

While social media didn’t used to matter as much, it does now. While many riders will argue that social media isn’t their job, if they’re looking to be sponsored, there needs to be a clear reward for the brand. When times are tight, the love of the sport isn’t enough for a business to allocate money against something that doesn’t deliver any tangible benefit to its bottom line.

There’s also a lot more competition for a brand’s marketing spend now, as Claire Shand from Westgate Labs explains: “The advent of content creators, influencers and ambassadors has certainly given marketers more choice around the stories they tell about their brand and the way their customers relate to them. Professional riders need to decide how they compete in this market (alongside their discipline) to bring added value.”

Are riders doing enough to support brands? Alternative options

Although social media is a big part of the equation, many brands work with riders in other ways too.

Lisa Wilson, marketing manager of Dengie, works with riders in adverts, product guides, magazine and online features, webinars and more. She admits it’s a tricky balance between what marketing departments want and what the riders are able to do.

“We work with riders who are passionate about our brand and have used it for years,” says Lisa. “We select those who are happy to work with us and understand the sponsorship obligations, but even then, it can still be tricky to measure the return on investment.”

Amanda Marshall from 3 Donkeys Clothing has worked with riders as well as influencers and has positive ongoing relationships with both, but has also come up against struggles.

“It is very easy for riders to have a ‘big brand’ mentality and don’t seem to grasp their importance to a ‘small brand’ who need as much exposure and help as possible to be seen and be competitive,” explains Amanda.

For sponsorships to work well, it needs to be based on mutual support, says Lawrence Gill, executive director of KBIS: “We want that relationship where we communicate and support each other – it’s not about taking the support and wearing a saddlecloth. We like people with a willingness to work with us, to work together.”

For the riders who do promote brands, there’s another hurdle to overcome, and that’s correct labelling as per the ASA (Advertising Standards Agency) and CMA (Competition and Markets Authority). In essence, if the person has been incentivised in any way (this could be free product or money), it needs to be disclosed as an ad – and that disclosure involves correct labelling.

There is a guide about this online and the equestrian industry needs to be taking the laws and rules a lot more seriously.

As a keen observer, I have seen Olympians and top level riders flout the rules. Influencers have been penalised for their incorrect use of labels. It’s something that needs to be taught by federations, reinforced by brands, and known by riders as part of their commitment to representing the brands they work for.

How can we resolve this situation? Riders need brands to support them, but in order to be seen as a good use of marketing spend, riders need to deliver. Communication around expectations from a brand and what’s possible from a rider’s perspective is key. One way to address this is through better contracts and agreements.

“A good contract should set out the commercial arrangement and give a roadmap for how to manage the situation if things go wrong, as well as underpinning the relationship between brand and rider,” says Jodie Seddon, partner at Aria Grace Law.

Sponsorship agreements need to be maintained by both parties. It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of a new partnership and then let everything go quiet as time moves on.

For brands, it’s important that riders do continue to show their support over time, as Helen Moody, director for Bloomfields Horseboxes, explains: “So many people start well and then get complacent. If the rider doesn’t keep regular updates to the wider public about their sponsorship, it soon gets forgotten, which completely defeats the object.”

There’s still a lot of opportunity for riders to work well with brands, but the field is competitive, and budgets are limited, so it needs to deliver for both parties.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

International grand prix dressage rider and trainer Anna Ross, who has represented Britain on numerous occasions, shares her thoughts on the dressage at London International and criticism on social media

As someone who tries not to engage with Christmas, I’m delighted that the season of Michael Bublé – unacceptable at any time of the year in my mind – is over. His festive ditties along with whimsical memes featuring talking animals are as traditional to me as the social media trolls who wait for the dressage at the London International Horse Show.

Becky Moody’s test was an absolute blast to watch. A real performance with showstopper music that everyone knew. We all fell in love with Jagerbomb who, although only nine years old, seemed to relish his moment in the spotlight and was lifted by the crowd’s joy in his performance.

I think we have reached the stage where it would be more of a shock if there wasn’t a drama on social media following the dressage but while the online voices appeared intense, the spectator judging, a snapshot of dressage public opinion, was largely in agreement with the international judges, having the first three in the same order.

In training and riding, we are religiously taught to ride the hindleg to the bit. But online, observations on the neck and head position are much more commented on than a hindleg or supple back. The neck is easy to see and measure.

The FEI judges’ directives state: “The head should remain in a steady position, as a rule with the nose line slightly in front of the vertical, with a supple poll as the highest point of the neck.”

But the ambience of the combination, expression and signs of stress can only be observed in close proximity, live – that’s why we need human judges.

Of course, the FEI directives also state a requirement for “engagement of the hindquarters, originating from a lively impulsion transmitted through a supple back.”

The more power there is, the more moments of brilliance there are. But with more power also comes a greater risk of tension. In the real world, as opposed to the virtual one, some combinations meet the criteria beautifully in terms of presenting the nose in front of the vertical and others excel in power, cadence and expression. It’s extremely difficult to do both.

“This could be controversial”

I’ve seen all horses that represented Britain in London untacked and it’s common sense to say that both Everdale and Imhotep conformationally have slightly upright necks that are proportionally shorter in length. This makes it harder for them to present the long frames of the horses with naturally big arched necks.

Both have great power and spring fulfilling another FEI criterion of “life and spirit in the paces”. The challenge for their riders is to shape that energy into something calm, supple, loose and flexible.

It’s the ultimate goal that riders strive for as they lose marks when the frame is compromised. This could be the most controversial statement of the year but, contrary to online opinion, horses do not automatically rebalance themselves into a perfect frame at all times from day one of training.

Laid-back horses tend to be easier to keep out in the neck in a hot environment as they don’t have as much fire coming into the bridle to be rebalanced. Having the nose in front does not automatically mean the horse is engaged and supple. A horse can be in front of the vertical with an uncomfortably dropped back and trailing hindleg.

In the real world, we see plenty of horses at all levels ridden in this way with the riders blissfully unaware that their horse is protecting itself from the rider, raising the neck and poking its head out forming a canoe shape for the riders backside to snuggle into before an evening in front of the laptop with a glass of pinot slating their fellow equestrians.

A new year brings new hopes, dreams and challenges. Not much chance of peace and harmony, and it’s unlikely to be good tidings to all men online. However, I wish all readers all the luck and joy in 2024.

● Do you think that online criticism has gone too far? Write to us at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future edition of Horse & Hound magazine

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, in shops from Friday 5 January, 2024

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A proposed social media policy covers anyone involved in FEI activity, and could mean suspensions and fines for those who breach it.

The change is included in the latest draft of FEI rule changes for 2024, which will be voted on at the FEI general assembly this month (18-21 November).

Having initially suggested the rule cover riders and officials, the FEI has now, after stakeholders’ feedback, included all participants in the policy, to “outline their responsibility”.

“For example, they should exercise good judgement and think about the potential consequences of their posts and interactions on social media platforms,” the FEI stated in its reason for the proposal. “They should not make derogatory, offensive, or inflammatory comments about other athletes, chefs d’equipe, coaches, teams, FEI officials, organisers, the FEI or any individuals associated with equestrian sport.”

In response to the initial proposal, the European Equestrian Federation said policing social media is not a matter for FEI rules.

“The FEI cannot simply become a regulator of equestrian-sport related social media separately and without taking into consideration the principles of freedom of speech and relevant EU legislation (and maybe other jurisdictions as well),” the federation said.

The proposed policy includes a section on reporting, stating that anyone who becomes aware of a violation should “report such incidents to the FEI”, citing the “collective responsibility to maintain a positive and respectful online environment”.

British Equestrian (BEF) welcomed the idea of policies but said “some areas are left open to interpretation and are ambiguous”. On reporting violations, it cited concerns, adding: “It is entirely foreseeable that there will be shades of grey in terms of comments or opinions made on social media and officials/athletes may well be left in doubt as to whether they need to report something or not.

“Many will also feel conflicted if they know the individuals involved and may simply prefer to run the risk of breaching the reporting obligations rather than report a concern.”

The German federation asked whether there are rules to cover behaviour offline, and if not “why such restrictions?” Other stakeholders called for more clarity in the policy and suggested a separate body to determine what is and is not offensive and the level of misconduct.

In other changes, the introduction of an FEI-approved tool to measure noseband tightness will go to the vote this month. H&H reported the proposal, to apply in all disciplines, this summer (news, 7 July).

The BEF and Swedish federations welcomed the proposal but other stakeholders expressed safety concerns, and cited a lack of scientific research behind optimum tightness and the tool to be used.

H&H also reported on the proposed charter for the horse, to which all involved in FEI sport should pledge their support.

The final wording for this, to be voted on this month, states: “I understand that it is a privilege to involve horses in sport and this comes with responsibilities to the horse. I commit to respecting the horse as a sentient creature capable of feeling both positive and negative emotions, and to ensuring its welfare is always my priority. I undertake to continually develop my understanding of horse behaviour and welfare needs, seeking evidence-based sources of information, and to proactively use this knowledge to provide a good life for horses with which I am involved.”

You might also be interested in:

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Noseband rules could be changed in all disciplines, plus other proposed revisions

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Katie Duxbury is a leading showing competitor who has ridden at HOYS, RIHS and Olympia multiple times. She is also a judge who sits on British Show Horse Association and Sports Horse Breeding of GB panels.

It was an honour to judge the novice hunter classes at the Great Yorkshire Show with my co-judge, Margaret Hopkins. This was my first time judging at Harrogate and the novice classes really are exciting and special; these horses are the future and you hope that the winners from both the lightweight and middleweight/heavyweight classes will go on to do great things during their careers.

I judged conformation during the lightweights and our winner (Say No More) was a classy, true lightweight who never faltered or put a foot wrong. However, we were disappointed that out of more than 25 catalogued entries, fewer than half were presented for judging.

It would seem that as the entries close so early in the year, competitors are entering their horses and making decisions later on, which is surprising given the cost of a class. But, the show is still one of the busiest in the calendar, and the number of spectators at the ringside proves that people are still keen to get out and about to proper county shows.

Practise makes perfect

The middleweight/heavyweight class was strong, with around 20 horses coming forward. Nothing went absolutely spot on during the go-round so Margaret and I weren’t afraid to shuffle around the final line-up depending on what rode and stripped well. Our eventual winner (Bloomfield Distinction) came up from fifth to win.

This horse eventually went novice champion and it was the presentation of his rider (Alice Homer) in the championship – she rode the most phenomenal gallop – that sealed the deal.

While I was impressed with the quality of the classes in general, some of the horses I rode were lacking preparation. I didn’t have any dreadful rides, but I had some very green ones. Some weren’t going forward or moving off the leg and it was apparent that they needed more mileage ahead of such an electric show.

The Yorkshire is a big ask for a young horse; the main ring is spooky with plenty to look at, and it can be hard to keep a horse’s attention. There are enough clinics and practice sessions on offer these days. I encourage riders to take advantage of them.

“Think before you post”

I joined my first judging panel more than 15 years ago but I am still a relatively young judge and in October I will officiate at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) for the first time.

I found the step up onto the panels easy, due to the support of the incredible senior judges who are always keen to share their knowledge and experiences with up-and-coming judges.

I always find my judging appointments very enjoyable on the day, but social media can taint experiences, as you never know what backlash is going to come following the competition.

A lot of people don’t think before they post on Facebook. Social media has made it easy for people to air opinions and disputes that they wouldn’t dream of bringing up in person if the individual they were targeting was standing in front of them.

On a positive note, I have noticed that some people have been challenged for their inappropriate posts and it seems that societies are beginning to do a bit more to police social media usage.

I know that we definitely don’t judge to get rich; even if I have claimed expenses for an appointment I am still usually left out of pocket by the time I’ve booked a hotel and travelled to a show.

We give up our time as we love the sport, so please remember this when you’re next tempted to comment on any judging that you might not agree with.

● What did you think of the standard of the showing classes at the Great Yorkshire? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your views published in a future edition of Horse & Hound magazine

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 20 July, 2023

You may also be interested in reading…

‘Aesthetics should never compromise welfare’: major show brings in ear-trimming rule

Warning as ponies’ welfare put at risk by facial oils and gels in hot weather

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Julie Templeton: ‘With entries for plaited classes down, how can we reverse this worrying trend?’

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some Luhmühlen highlights to a tricky moment for one showing competitor.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

Pippa Funnell commiserating Laura Collett after disappointment at the European Eventing Championships at Luhmühlen in 2019 and another picture of her congratulating Laura after her Luhmühlen five-star win last weekend

A winner’s welcome for London 52 at home

And this was the welcome home for Rehy DJ, who finished third under Yasmin Ingham in this year’s Luhmühlen five-star

How kind of these two to provide sustenance to riders in the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery while out on exercise in preparation for the Trooping of the Colour

A pretty fascinating insight into how Rich Ricci, who is one of the top racehorse owners, watches his horses run 

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Whoopsie! Glad no harm was done when this handler momentarily lost her footing

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some Bramham Horse Trials highlights to some racehorses enjoying their summer holidays.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

These guys look like they’re enjoying their summer holidays

All hail this year’s Bramham CCI4*-L winner, Pippa Funnell

What an inspiration Pippa is having won a Bramham title in each of the past four decades

That last fence feeling for Bubby Upton, who won the under-25 CCI4*-L at Bramham with Magic Roundabout

Is it a horse or is it a plane?

How idyllic

Put your best foot forward

But our favourite social media post this week is…

We love this rider’s calm manner during this interesting “Enter at A” moment…

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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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from a great achievement by an eventing legend to a horse who is very helpful when it comes to gates.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

We can’t wait to see the result of this one

Fair play to Mary King!

The wonderful former National Hunt racehorse Politologue thriving in his new career

Oopsy

Skilful stuff

He might be a nine-time Derby-winning trainer at Epsom, but that doesn’t stop Aidan O’Brien from being very involved in the turnout of his runners – including their quarter marks

And it was a final Epsom meeting as a jockey for Frankie Dettori ahead of his retirement

Does your horse help you out at gates?

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Oh no!

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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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from a young horse with a very famous mother to a very relaxed racehorse encountering a herd of deer.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

The wonderful Istabraq enjoying his 31st birthday

This smart youngster has got a very famous mummy

Thirsty there?

Who can relate?

If you know, you know

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Would your horse be as chilled in this situation?

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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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

British international grand prix dressage rider and trainer Anna Ross on the importance of listening to and engaging with those who criticise our sport

I don’t believe that animal lovers concerned about our sport should or will just leave us alone. So when I was fortunate enough to compete Habouche at the Compiègne CDI in France and learnt that a critic of modern dressage, who is active on social media, was in attendance, I decided to track her down.

Closed minds will close doors – if we don’t listen, people will only shout louder. So I approached tentatively, and opened the conversation.

“Hello, are you riding or er… supporting?” I asked.

“You won’t like me,” she replied, explaining that she was a vet, there to film the riders so she could raise concerns about horse welfare if she felt it justified. Interestingly, she viewed herself as a custodian of the sport, rather than a threat to it and we had a spirited but good-humoured debate.

We had much in common. We love horses and are concerned for their welfare and happiness, believe it’s OK to enjoy them for sport as long as welfare is not compromised, understand the FEI rules and directives, and agree social licence of the sport is crucial but can be protected with good practices that stand up to scrutiny.

I explained that creating witch-hunts on social media via screenshots and photos was misleading and unacceptable, and she said she now uses videos to make her points.

She took a blanket approach to neck length, believing horses at all times should be ridden in front of the vertical and referred to scientific papers demonstrating the negative effects of various training systems, including “low, deep and round” (LDR) and stretching. She agreed I could discuss the validity of these with my vet advisors.

I said I feel conformation impacts this “one-neck-fits-all” approach; horses with short necks or stallions with cresty necks might struggle to be poll high, stiffening their backs in the effort. Some young horses naturally curl behind the vertical, before they ever have a bit in their mouths. She felt horses on a completely loose rein that are behind the vertical by choice were in a state of learnt helplessness.

When I asked to see positive examples of grand prix riding, she showed me a video of a baroque horse at a lower level, making it hard for me to visualise the desired “end game”. There were a couple of Iberian horses in the grand prix training towards her vision, and she was glad to hear the judges awarded them good marks.

She felt the judges weren’t harsh enough when necks shortened and was pleased when I showed her my test sheet and video, when I’d momentarily “had my hands full” on an excitable Habouche and lost marks. I pointed out that with my score a fraction under 70%, the judges were saying there was much to improve.

To me, it would be more relevant and convincing to see the outcome of the training principles she suggested applied to grand prix warmbloods, via video or live. I have been invited to an annual conference of equestrian stakeholders she is involved with and hope I can attend to better understand the concerns.

“A boost in all directions”

Internet trolling is a clumsy weapon, although for smart people it can have a silver lining.

My long-term pupil Bronte Watson had an unpleasant experience when trolls commented negatively on her figure. She is well blessed in the bust department and took it with good humour, knowing she’d have the last laugh, because increased engagement on posts sparks the algorithm meaning future posts are more widely seen. So that person (or business) benefits.

Bronte received much advice and is now trialling bras and reporting back to her increased audience. You could say it’s a boost in all directions.

● Do you agree with Anna that we should be engaging with those who are critical of our sport? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, for the chance to have your views published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine.

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 25 May, 2023

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Dressage rider in remission from cancer scores personal best during ‘biblical storm’

Carl Hester on what can cause poor mental health in dressage riders – and how to tell if you’re affected

Charlotte Dujardin posts new personal best at comeback show – riding to Valegro’s music

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some very cute foals to some superstars enjoying their holidays.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

The mega racehorse Constitution Hill looks very happy on his holidays – seen here being paid a visit by his trainer Nicky Henderson

We just wanted to take a moment to look back and admire the amazing work of the ground staff at Cheltenham Racecourse over the Coronation weekend

Don’t try this at home

What a save!

How cute are these two? 

When you really, really want to win…

Two Grade One winners very much enjoying their holidays

But our favourite social media post this week is…

A very cute combination

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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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some Badminton highlights to some very cute foals.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

Sorry Tom Crisp, but this one is too good not to share

Just a few big names having a post-Badminton splash

Take a bow! Saffie Osborne after her great win in the Chester Cup

Take a trip down memory lane to when Zara Tindall (neé Phillips) finished second at her first Burghley in 2003

Richard Jones’ five-star horse Alfies Clover living the dream at Badminton

Say cheese!

A few more very cute foals for good measure

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Tom Crisp (the very sporting rider who fell off into The Lake at Badminton this year) received a swimming certificate for his efforts from his colleagues at his local fire station

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some Badminton highlights to key preparation for the coronation.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

Cobs absolutely can!

And here is Star X going the whole way round the Badminton Grassroots tracks last week – what a hero!

No scope, no hope!

What a week for Walter and Ros

Lottie Fry and Everdale pull some shapes

We know you’ve probably already seen it a million times, but we just love this from Tom Crisp

Coronation rehearsals under the cover of darkness

But our favourite social media posts this week are…

When the Badminton trophy is bigger than you – congratulations to Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo!

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some Kentucky five-star highlights to some horses galloping into their holiday.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

Sound on for this one! Pippa Funnell gives Tom McEwen a leg-up. Piggy March behind the camera

How sweet is this?

Holiday time for these National Hunt horses

Hup!

A race with a difference

The amazing JL Dublin and Tom McEwen did Nicola Wilson proud in the five-star at Kentucky

But our favourite social media posts this week are…

When you’re Mai Baum and you’ve just won the five-star in Kentucky

Congratulations to Tamie Smith and Mai Baum on their victory

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from a whizz around the Team Chasing Championships to some key Badminton preparation.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

No fair weather riders here

We can’t wait for Thelwell’s Merrylegs: The Movie

What a mural

Strap yourself in for a spin around the open track at the Team Chasing Championships

The bond between a stable lass and her pride and joy

Fair play!

Some very precious cargo making their way to Kentucky five-star 

Harry Meade and his daughter Lily check out this year’s Badminton cross-country track

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Stick your head out of your stable window if you won the 2023 Grand National… The wonderful Corach Rambler enjoys the view from his ‘bedroom’ following his victory

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from a superb Grand National winner to one of the most incredible settings for a competition.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

Fresh!

The amazing Corach Rambler and his trainer Lucinda Russell back at home in Scotland after his superb Grand National victory

And this is what it was like for the syndicate owners of Corach Rambler on the day of his Grand National victory. The youngest member of the syndicate, Cameron Sword, is just 21 years old and in his final year at university – how cool!

What a brave chap!

No scope, no hope

What. A. Show

But our favourite social media post this week is…

This dressage horse thinks it can see a distance!

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some small but mighty (and speedy) ponies to a very cute video of an equine superstar meeting a tiny baby.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

Look at these little ones go!

World Cup Final winner and reigning Olympic champion Dalera shares some words

And here she is strutting her stuff

Just WOW

Following in his dad’s footsteps?

Let’s go cross-country schooling with Laura Collett and some of her superstars

But our favourite social media post this week is…

How sweet is Valegro saying hello to Charlotte Dujardin’s baby girl?

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from a pony that thinks it’s a dog to some genius April fools’ posts.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

They’re “lovin’ it”

Fair play to the team at Thoresby for keeping this show on the road throughout the weekend

Oh crikey!

A 14.2hh flying without wings

“Absolutely not!”

Now for just a few of our favourite April fools’ posts…

Just imagine this

Bet this one made you do a double take!

Mooooove over horses

Purple and orange?

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Pony or dog?

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Rising showjumping star Joe Trunkfield discusses the power – and dangers – of social media to equestrian sport

Despite the difference in the set task and routine, one common problem all spheres of equestrianism are experiencing is new rules and regulations being made, in order to protect the image of the sport in the general public’s eye.

Recently, I was invited to the office of my sporting federation (British Showjumping) to gain further knowledge on the why and how of some of the rules under which we, as professional horsemen and women, compete.

While I’m one of the first to argue about a lot of the rules that I, and many others, find mind-boggling and think make no sense – especially with the difference in rules nationally and internationally – I now look at things differently. Some of the things I learnt and stats they gave me put a new perspective on the future of our sport.

As we know, the top end of the sport, from show centres to riders, needs sponsorship support from big companies. With this in mind, it was worrying to learn that in a recent poll, 52% of the British public don’t agree with horses being used for sport.

We all know how much our horses show clear motivation and desire for the sport, and we provide them with the highest standards of care and devotion, so this is a definite area of concern. Will big companies be comfortable supporting our sport if they could potentially upset 52% of their own customers?

Another interesting statistic was in reference to a TikTok video of a professional which had been edited and promoted negatively and gone viral. The power of that particular TikTok poster is scary, having 360,000 followers. My local MP was elected with 60,000 votes (a very safe Conservative seat), British Showjumping has approximately 17,000 members. It is clear to see how much damage can be done to our sport with one misinterpreted video going viral.

Looking forward

My fears as a producer are that we could be facing rules to accommodate the public eye, rather than to benefit our equine athletes in the sport.

For instance, the now legal whip is very horse friendly, weighing no more than 160g, being two-fifths padded and smooth. This gives a soft touch and, making more of a noise than other whips, the artificial aid works well if a horse requires extra encouragement beyond

the leg.

However, to the general public and camera – and with so many shows being on a live stream – a gentle aid from this persuader creates a much louder sound (in the silence of a high-level competition arena), again giving a bad image to the public.

It leaves a lot of concern over the future of our sport and what rules will be coming next to accommodate for the dangers of TikTok.

Our super-grooms work tirelessly and devotedly with their horses, giving them the best of care and the best life. Hopefully, they can be given platforms so 360,000 followers can see their efforts.

The question is: what can we do to protect our sport and promote the brilliant lives our horses have?

● How do you think riders can show the care their horses receive on social media? Write to hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your views published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 30 March

You may also be interested in…

‘I do not view this as a job, it’s a way of life and I love it’: Behind the scenes with Joe Stockdale’s groom Charlotte Attwell

10 competition legal whips in a variety of styles for every discipline

Joe Trunkfield: ‘The challenge of being a showjumper versus a businessman’

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some incredible backdrops to a top showjumper quite simply living the dream.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

What an incredible setting for a horse trials

An incredible sight

Equinox, winner of last weekend’s Dubai World Cup, is (unsurprisingly) very fast!

When you want your dog to feature in your showjumping tracks

Honeysuckle heads off to the next part of her life, now that she has retired from racing

There’s some new faces at the wonderful Gifford’s Circus this year

Boing!

Ben Maher’s Faltic is quite simply living the dream

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Bred in the purple (and incredibly cute)

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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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some Cheltenham Festival highlights to a top event rider flying into the new season.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

Let’s take a trip down memory lane with the remarkable Stroller

Willie Mullins, who was leading trainer at this year’s Cheltenham Festival, lifts his hat to the crowd to reveal he keeps a picture of the former great mare and top hurdler he trained, Quevega, in there

When your horse runs a blinder at the Cheltenham Festival

What a horse

What a mare, what a jockey and what a trainer, who has been through the most difficult of times over the past few months

Laura Collett enjoys something a little different when schooling racehorses around Cheltenham’s cross-country race fences for Gordon Elliott

Tom McEwen jumping into the new eventing season like…

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Dream big

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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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from a pair of basketball players to a very cute foal.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

These guys are brilliant

When Isabella, Charlotte Dujardin’s baby girl, met Valegro

Strap yourself in for a winning ride around the Cottesmore Hunt scurry

Proving you are never too old

Weather does not stop play when you have a pack of hounds

Wonderful Smad Place parades at Cheltenham

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Where are you?

And here Pancake is whizzing around when not buried in hay!

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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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from one very cute and playful foal to a top rider showing he is no one trick pony.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

What a little character

Wow

Top showjumper, Pius Schwizer, shows off some vaulting skills

We are also this obsessed with horses, to be fair

Who can relate?

Piggy March’s Badminton and Burghley champion Vanir Kamir surveys her kingdom

Strap yourselves in for a spin over some schooling fences

Tim and Jonelle Price’s multi-talented dog

The wonderful Istabraq looking a million dollars at the age of 31

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Who needs a bridle anyway?!

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some heartwarming moments of horses with their grooms to another that provides endless entertainment for a couple of terriers.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

Stunning

So sweet

In full flight

A clean pair of heels

How cute is this little guy?

What a brilliant sight

“This is how you do it”

But our favourite social media post this week is…

This is love…

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some incredible leaps to a horse that adores his human.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

What a leap!

Yummy

In full flight

Talking of flights, how cool is this place in Australia?

“I don’t need a jockey!”

Jack Whitaker with his dad Michael tin 2009 and 2022

How cute!

But our favourite social media post this week is…

This is love…

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some wonderful leaps to a horse that quite simply can’t wait to load up and get going.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

What a leap!

Watch Tim and Jonelle Price’s head girl Kerryn Edmunds say farewell to 16 of their horses as they go and find some winter sun showjumping in Spain

Wowzers!

This sequence is brilliant

A heartwarming moment

A nice day out for Bettina Hoy from top Swiss eventer Felix Vogg

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Have you ever seen a horse so keen to go out and about?

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some wonderful foal spam to a great save – but with a difference.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

’Tis the season for incredibly cute foal spam

Well that’s one way of preventing yourself from falling off

Horses are great levellers…

When you’re hangry

Magic!

Feeling fresh!

But our favourite social media post this week is…

This little chap was keen to find his feet

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some great saves to a remarkable comeback.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

What a save!

No stirrups? No problem!

Incredible to see former jockey Josh Moore back on board after a traumatic 2022 when a fall at Haydock in April, left hum with a broken leg, a punctured lung, damage to his lower back and some broken ribs. Complications then left the then 30-year-old fighting for his life.

What a sight

Pull!

Feeling fresh!

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Very helpful!

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from a horse with its own ideas to a very muddy pony and rider.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

When it’s just one of those days…

Mud, glorious mud

Well this is one way of doing it…

Not today, thank you

Buckle up!

Happy 30th Birthday to the legend that is Shutterfly

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Stand by, washing machine…!

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some event horses looking to be very much enjoying their work to a teddy bear hanging on for dear life.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

Back from a serious ligament injury, this horse looks full of the joys of Spring

Fascinating stuff from Piggy March

This teddy has a great seat!

Just a few champions in this picture…

Good save!

We’d very much like to spend our winters here too

But our favourite social media post this week is…

It’s that time of year again when Laura Collett gives her 2022 Badminton winner London 52 his first jump since his winter holidays – sound on for the full effect

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some incredibly muddy conditions to a superb combination.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

Strap yourself in for some fun with the Beaufort

Jonjo O’Neill after the Welsh Grand National

And here’s Jamie Moore battling through the muddy conditions in the Welsh Grand National

How sweet

Marcus Ehning gets his own back on Christan Ahlmann after being beaten by him

How cool is this? Ebolensky, who won the London International Horse Show Grand Prix with Matt Sampson, pictured here in 2014 winning the Burghley Young Event Horse final with Samantha Jimmison

Who can relate?

But our favourite social media post this week is…

What a mega little jockey and an equally mega pony

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from some great London International Horse Show moments to some action in the snow.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

We are incredibly happy that the fancy dress class returned to the London International Horse Show this year – long may it continue!

We love this video

How cute

If you haven’t yet watched Lottie Fry and Glamourdale’s London International Horse Show freestyle test, you absolutely must!

What an amazing sight

Little monkey!

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Christmas is on its way!

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from a really cute little pair to a couple of incredible saves.

Which is your favourite post?

Equestrian social media posts of the week

Strap yourself in for a ride around the Sweden International Horse Show indoor eventing competition with US Olympian Boyd Martin

Horse or dragon?

Take a bow, Freddie Gingell

Happy retirement, Clooney!

We love this little pair

What a lovely sight

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Wait for it… 

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Enjoy some of our favourite updates from equestrian social media channels during the past week, from a great moment at The Horse & Hound Awards to the moment a horse ‘shrank’ into a pony.

Which is your favourite post?

N.B: Click on a picture to be taken through to the post

Equestrian social media posts of the week

It was a wonderful moment when Nicola Wilson won at the Horse & Hound Awards last week

Who can relate?

How many five-star riders can you spot in here?

What a lovely gesture

Give Dan Skelton Racing a follow to keep an eye on #ElfInShelfieldGreen (the name of where they live) this December

Explosion W and his little friend

But our favourite social media post this week is…

Watch this video to see an amazing magic trick

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Keep up to date with all of the action from London International, including breaking news and behind the scenes insight from each day of the show, with no limit on how much you can read, from as little as £1 per week with a Horse & Hound unlimited website subscription. Join now

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

It’s fair to say that social media has a mixed reputation when it comes to its use within sport, and especially in horse sport. But there is no denying it has its place, and can bring huge benefits to the equestrian community. One top rider who has amassed an impressive following on social media is Irish international dressage rider Abi Lyle, who is based in Wiltshire.

Abi currently boasts more than 24,000 followers on Instagram, and 53,000 on Facebook. She says she feels “blessed” that social media has always been a positive in her life, and has never become too much for her to handle alongside her riding and competing.

So how can social media be used for positive impact within the equestrian world?

“Where the positives of social media come in is from people sharing, not only their good times, but also the bad. Whenever I heard that other riders struggled with things too, it made me feel so much better,” said Abi on episode 131 of The Horse & Hound Podcast.

“For me, it started because I was feeling a bit lonely, riding on my own. I just started chatting into the camera one day, and saying things about how my rides were going, and it built from there. People seemed to enjoy it.”

Abi Lyle: ‘Social media can be a good support for people’

Abi points out that the sport of dressage in particular brings with it a sense of perfection, which can have a negative impact on up-and-coming riders in particular, or indeed any rider aspiring to be more like those at the very top of the sport.

“The idea is that you go into the ring and you make it look easy,” she explains. “The essence of dressage is that your horse is supposed to be happy and willing and everything is supposed to look easy. If you watch that representation of it, in someone doing a very good test, it can be easy to assume that’s what it looks like all the time, and it’s very unlikely that it does.”

Abi is one of Ireland’s most successful international riders, who competed at the World Dressage Championships earlier this year with her top horse Giraldo, and she is keen to present an honest image of her life online.

“I get on some days and I feel like my legs are everywhere and I can’t sit. But we all have days like that,” she says.

“The one thing I think most people need to do in their own training is to be more consistent and to keep going, and so I think in that way social media can be a good support for people.”

To hear more from Abi Lyle, tune in to episode 131 of The Horse & Hound Podcast – listen here or search “The Horse & Hound Podcast” in your favourite podcast app.

You may also enjoy…

‘He’s the love of my life’: Ireland’s Abi Lyle sheds tears of pride for defining horse of her career on World Championship debut

British world champion spearheads dressage line-up at London International Horse Show

Why Carl Hester is behind top dressage rider’s 300-mile move

Carl Hester’s former team horse sold to new rider: ‘It’s like something out of a dream’

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now