Britain is all systems go in preparation for Paris 2024, as major milestones have led to some late rejigs of places for this summer’s Games.

The months from 31 December to the end of March hold a myriad of critical Olympic deadlines, and Britain has met all those so far and is firmly on track for Paris.

Nations had until the end of 2023 for at least three horse and rider combinations to have achieved minimum eligibility requirements. They then had until 8 January to submit a certificate of capability to the FEI, before the federation informed nations of their allocated team quota places on 10 January. Britain has met all of these, but for other nations, there is a certain amount of reshuffling – and waiting.

British Equestrian performance director Helen Nicholls told H&H that preparations are “in a good place”, adding that an Olympic and Paralympic year is “like no other”.

“We’ve ticked the qualification boxes and now our athlete combinations can start their quest for selection in earnest,” she said.

“We’ve worked with the performance managers across dressage, eventing, jumping and para dressage on plans which will allow riders and horses to perform at their best for selection and then peak just in time for Paris.

“This is a huge opportunity to showcase our sports, as the Palace de Versailles is a truly beautiful and iconic venue – and being so close, Paris is almost like a home Games. We are confident that come August and September, we’ll be ready.”

Official documents show Brazil’s Olympic team dressage place has been withdrawn, as the nation did not confirm its certificate of capability by the 8 January deadline. This also happened ahead of Tokyo, but the nation has not given up total hope.

“With our unprecedented silver medal as a team in the Pan-American Games in Santiago 2023, we secured the country’s spot in Paris,” a Brazilian federation spokesman told H&H.

“Now, we need to await the official decision from the relevant authorities regarding the registration of the Brazilian team, as we anticipate the participation of a full team in Paris 2024.

“Nevertheless, Brazil already has the right to an individual spot which, in case of a definitive impossibility of the team spot, will be determined according to our confederation’s criteria.”

Nations have until 5 February to confirm or decline their allocated team quota places, and there are several later target dates to meet, so further changes could be possible.

For Finland and Portugal, this is a milestone moment. Finland last fielded an Olympic dressage team at Seoul 1988, and returning to Paris has historical significance for Portugal. Both nations are also expected to have individual places in other equestrian disciplines, as per the recently published FEI rankings, which are used as the basis for individual qualification slots.

“It’s great that the level has risen in dressage and we can participate with the whole team. We now have a dozen international-level riders who have set their sights on a team place in Paris,” said Jutta Koivula, sports director of Finland’s equestrian federation.

Rita Cabral de Moura, of the Portuguese equestrian federation, told H&H that confirmation of its Olympic team dressage place is “an affirmation of our talent and capacity”.

“The first Olympic medal won for Portugal was in Paris in 1924, in equestrian sport. One hundred years later we are back, and we believe that we will present a very competitive team,” she said.

The horse nationality transfer deadline on Monday (15 January) has also resulted in a recent flurry of activity.

The US has had an influx of top dressage rides, including European medallist Bohemian, Lottie Fry’s former grand prix-winning ride Lars Van De Hoenderheide, international grand prix horse Fleau De Baian – a full brother to Adelinde Cornelissen’s late London Olympic medal-winner Jerich Parzival – and more.

Two top rides of Andreas Helgstrand, who has been excluded from the Danish national team following the broadcast of an undercover documentary, have moved to new riders while he is sidelined.

European team bronze medallist Jovian will be campaigned by Patrik Kittel and is registered to Sweden, while Queenparks Wendy is registered to Germany and will be campaigned by Isabell Werth.

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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

All eyes are on the future as Britain reflects on a phenomenal summer of success by looking to the next goals.

British riders won 19 senior Olympic, Paralympic and European medals in the space of two months this summer – with 17 combinations sharing in the success.

There are five Brits in the eventing world top 10, as well as two each in the respective top 10s for showjumping, dressage and overall para dressage.

On top of this, British event riders are the reigning champions of all five-star events in the northern hemisphere. They also hold the titles of every four-star (long and short) in Britain this year, with the exception of Barbury – won by Andrew Nicholson.

“It’s been absolutely incredible,” British Equestrian performance director Dickie Waygood told H&H, adding that there is a combination of factors behind why Britain is so strong this year.

He explained that fielding less experienced riders – as well as established riders on less experienced horses – at key events and European Championships in recent years, has helped build that “width and depth” to Britain’s strength, with the next Olympics and World Games on the horizon.

“We haven’t been frightened of putting some younger combinations in and developing them for the future,” he said, adding building confidence has been a key part of Britain’s development.

“The only way to get experience at that level is to keep going into the arena.”

He added that this, combined with the fact that “everybody is judged on merit” makes people “hungry” as they believe they can do it.

He cited the young British side winning the Challenge Cup at the Nations Cup Final in Barcelona, plus the fact that three of the British horses on the European eventing squad are only 10 years old as two examples of building success with the future in mind.

British Eventing chief executive Helen West told H&H the summer’s results have been “absolutely incredible” and the future of young horses and riders coming through the ranks is also very exciting.

“I take my hat off to Dickie and Chris [Bartle]. The system they have in place is just phenomenal, it is so professional,” she said.

She added that Britain has always been good, but it is “too much of a coincidence” not to look at the part the current support network for high performance is playing. That includes Dickie and Chris Bartle, plus the trust and expertise in the wider support team of owners, vets and each other.

“It is very professional and I think the riders have confidence in that, and confidence breeds confidence,” she said.

“No stone is left unturned. It is such a slick beast and it was an honour to be in Avenches to witness the British results. There was a real atmosphere, bond and camaraderie [between the squad]. There is so much strength and depth, I don’t think there has ever been a time we have been in such a strong position – and there is still more to come.”

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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

With Covid-19 casting a shadow over much of the Olympic build up, you’d be forgiven for not being quite as ready for Olympic fever as you were this time five years ago. To help you get in the patriotic spirit, we’ve put together a selection of Team GB-inspired outfit, accessory and decoration suggestions, including items from the official Team GB kit.

Adidas released the official Team GB kit recently and, although there are no equestrian-specific items you can get your hands on, there are a few items that might suit yard life and others that are perfect for when you’re watching your favourite discipline from the comfort of your sofa.

Here are a few of our favourite items from the official Team GB kit collection below or jump down for some other non-official items that will add a bit more red, white and blue to your wardrobe and help you get ready for the excitement to come…

Adidas Team GB Graphic T-shirt

Colours: Tech Indigo | Sizes: XXS–XXL | RRP: £25 |

This classic T-shirt will be great in any situation – whether you’re watching at home or in the pub, popping to the yard or the shops, you can be supporting the team while you’re at it.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Adidas Team GB Lion hoodie

Colours: White | Sizes: 6–26 | RRP: £75 |

Although it might not be an ideal colour for a yard layer, this hoodie looks perfect for when you’re watching evening highlights on the sofa.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Adidas Team GB Heat.Rdy Media T-shirt 

Colours: White/red/indigo | Sizes: XXS–XXL | RRP: £38 |

This lightweight, technical tee will be worn by athletes when they speak to the media in Tokyo, so it looks like it’ll be perfect for wearing in the heat, when riding or for a work out.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Adidas Team GB cap

Colours: Indigo/red or white | Sizes: Kids, youth, adult S/M or adult M/L | RRP: From £18 |

Also available in navy, this cap is an ideal summer accessory and Olympic memento.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Adidas Team GB trucker cap

Colours: Indigo | Sizes: Youth, adult S/M or adult M/L | RRP: £20 |

This cap is a slightly different style, with a breathable, mesh back – and there will be no doubt who you’re supporting with the design.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Adidas Team GB Flower T-shirt

Colours: Indigo or purple | Sizes: 6–18 | RRP: £30 |

This loose-fit tee is a nice, Japanese-inspired alternative to the traditional kit options.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Here are a few red, white and blue items that aren’t part of the official Team GB kit, but would make good additions to any Team GB supporter’s outfit and setup. We’ve also found a few items that will help you continue the Olympic legacy and keep you inspired at the yard for years to come…

Union Jack bunting

Sizes: 10m, 18m, 20m or 40m | RRP: From £3.49 |

If you’re hosting an Olympic get-together for any of the events, this bunting is an absolute essential. And if you haven’t made any plans yet, check out the Olympic coverage times for the dressage, eventing and showjumping, and get planning!

View now at amazon.co.uk

Ariat Ignite slip-on trainers

Colours: Team navy | Sizes: 3–8.5 | RRP: £100 |

If you fancy something comfy and casual with a subtle show of Team GB support, these trainers are just the ticket.

View now at ariat.com

Berry & Wilson men’s socks

Sizes: One size (6–12) | RRP: £9.99 for 6 pairs |

Make sure the men in your household are fully involved with these snazzy socks.

View now at amazon.co.uk

AK Riding aluminium stirrups

Sizes: 4.75in | RRP: £27.99 |

These Union Jack stirrups are a fun touch to add to your saddle.

View now at amazon.co.uk

Vintage Union Jack equestrian T-shirt 

Colours: Black, navy, white, blue, red or grey | Sizes: S–3XL, with kids sizes also available | RRP: £13 |

Available in men’s, ladies’ and youth fits, this T-shirt is perfect for an equestrian supporter.

View now at amazon.co.uk

Union Jack headband

RRP: £3.99 |

This headband is the perfect accessory for an Olympic party or get together.

View now at amazon.co.uk

Ariat Cruiser Shorebound boat shoes

Colours: Team navy | Sizes: 3–8.5 | RRP: £80 |

Perfect for wearing out and about – and will still look great in years to come – these boat shoes are very stylish in red, white and blue.

View now at ariat.com

Joules ladies’ bamboo socks

Colours: Navy multi spot | Sizes: One size | RRP: £16.95 for a pack of three |

For a subtle red, white and blue look, try these socks from Joules.

View now at naylors.com

Union Jack hat silk 

RRP: From £16 |

Show your support for the team when you’re out and about on your horse.

View now at ebay.co.uk

Shires Moretta Gabriella boots

Colours: Brown or navy | Sizes: 4–9, with four width options | RRP: £170 |

The small Union Jack on these is a nice touch to keep the dream alive after the Olympics are over.

View now at equus.co.uk

Toggi GBR Shady

Colours: Navy | Sizes: One size | RRP: £16.50 |

This cap is made from breathable stretch fabric and is equipped with UPF 50+ protection.

View now at elandlodge.com

WeatherBeeta Polar fleece cooler 

Colours: Navy/red/white | Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in | RRP: £44.99 |

Kit your horse out in red, white and blue so he feels like a superstar when he next steps off the lorry.

View now at naylors.com

Union Jack retro sunglasses

RRP: £3.49 |

Just for fun, these glasses will be sure to come in handy over the next few weeks.

View now at amazon.co.uk

Woof Wear ergonomic fly veil 

Colours: Navy/red | Sizes: Cob or full | RRP: £17.99 |

Another red, white and blue accessory for your horse to help him perform like a champ.

View now at naylors.com

Toggi Airy GBR technical ladies’ polo 

Colours: Navy | Sizes: 10–18 | RRP: £40 |

Perfect for wearing in the saddle or at the yard, this technical polo is also available in a men’s style.

View now at naylors.com

Toggi GBR Be Eco bamboo ladies’ socks

Colours: Navy/red | Sizes: One size (4–8) | RRP: £17.50 for a pack of three |

Part of Toggi’s GBR collection, these socks are made from bamboo, which is sustainable and contains a natural antibacterial agent to help keep your feet fresh.

View now at naylors.com

Gallop Shop Union Jack saddle pad and ears set

Sizes: Pony, cob or full | RRP: £49.50 |

View now at ebay.co.uk

Dublin socks

Colours: Navy/red | Sizes: One size | RRP: £12.99 for a pack of three |

If none of the socks have caught your eye yet, maybe these ones are your cup of tea?

View now at naylors.com

Ariat New Team softshell jacket

Colours: Team | Sizes: XS–XXL | RRP: £105 |

A softshell jacket as smart as this one will always come in handy.

View now at ariat.com

You might also like:

‘The best Olympics ever’: statistics predict high hopes for British eventers in Tokyo

H&H Olympic reporter’s blog: ‘I never thought access would be dependent on my spit quality…’

10 summer riding tops you’ll want to add to your wardrobe

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

Would you like unrestricted access to Horse & Hound’s independent journalism with less adverts? Gain unlimited access to Horse & Hound today and you can read everything on horseandhound.co.uk whenever suits you

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

With Covid-19 casting a shadow over much of the Olympic build up, you’d be forgiven for not being quite as ready for Olympic fever as you were this time five years ago. To help you get in the patriotic spirit, we’ve put together a selection of Team GB-inspired outfit, accessory and decoration suggestions, including items from the official Team GB kit.

Adidas released the official Team GB kit recently and, although there are no equestrian-specific items you can get your hands on, there are a few items that might suit yard life and others that are perfect for when you’re watching your favourite discipline from the comfort of your sofa.

Here are a few of our favourite items from the official Team GB kit collection below or jump down for some other non-official items that will add a bit more red, white and blue to your wardrobe and help you get ready for the excitement to come…

Adidas Team GB Graphic T-shirt

Colours: Tech Indigo | Sizes: XXS–XXL | RRP: £25 |

This classic T-shirt will be great in any situation – whether you’re watching at home or in the pub, popping to the yard or the shops, you can be supporting the team while you’re at it.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Adidas Team GB Lion hoodie

Colours: White | Sizes: 6–26 | RRP: £75 |

Although it might not be an ideal colour for a yard layer, this hoodie looks perfect for when you’re watching evening highlights on the sofa.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Adidas Team GB Heat.Rdy Media T-shirt 

Colours: White/red/indigo | Sizes: XXS–XXL | RRP: £38 |

This lightweight, technical tee will be worn by athletes when they speak to the media in Tokyo, so it looks like it’ll be perfect for wearing in the heat, when riding or for a work out.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Adidas Team GB cap

Colours: Indigo/red or white | Sizes: Kids, youth, adult S/M or adult M/L | RRP: From £18 |

Also available in navy, this cap is an ideal summer accessory and Olympic memento.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Adidas Team GB trucker cap

Colours: Indigo | Sizes: Youth, adult S/M or adult M/L | RRP: £20 |

This cap is a slightly different style, with a breathable, mesh back – and there will be no doubt who you’re supporting with the design.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Adidas Team GB Flower T-shirt

Colours: Indigo or purple | Sizes: 6–18 | RRP: £30 |

This loose-fit tee is a nice, Japanese-inspired alternative to the traditional kit options.

View now at adidas.co.uk

Here are a few red, white and blue items that aren’t part of the official Team GB kit, but would make good additions to any Team GB supporter’s outfit and setup. We’ve also found a few items that will help you continue the Olympic legacy and keep you inspired at the yard for years to come…

Union Jack bunting

Sizes: 10m, 18m, 20m or 40m | RRP: From £3.49 |

If you’re hosting an Olympic get-together for any of the events, this bunting is an absolute essential. And if you haven’t made any plans yet, check out the Olympic coverage times for the dressage, eventing and showjumping, and get planning!

View now at amazon.co.uk

Ariat Ignite slip-on trainers

Colours: Team navy | Sizes: 3–8.5 | RRP: £100 |

If you fancy something comfy and casual with a subtle show of Team GB support, these trainers are just the ticket.

View now at ariat.com

Berry & Wilson men’s socks

Sizes: One size (6–12) | RRP: £9.99 for 6 pairs |

Make sure the men in your household are fully involved with these snazzy socks.

View now at amazon.co.uk

AK Riding aluminium stirrups

Sizes: 4.75in | RRP: £27.99 |

These Union Jack stirrups are a fun touch to add to your saddle.

View now at amazon.co.uk

Vintage Union Jack equestrian T-shirt 

Colours: Black, navy, white, blue, red or grey | Sizes: S–3XL, with kids sizes also available | RRP: £13 |

Available in men’s, ladies’ and youth fits, this T-shirt is perfect for an equestrian supporter.

View now at amazon.co.uk

Union Jack headband

RRP: £3.99 |

This headband is the perfect accessory for an Olympic party or get together.

View now at amazon.co.uk

Ariat Cruiser Shorebound boat shoes

Colours: Team navy | Sizes: 3–8.5 | RRP: £80 |

Perfect for wearing out and about – and will still look great in years to come – these boat shoes are very stylish in red, white and blue.

View now at ariat.com

Joules ladies’ bamboo socks

Colours: Navy multi spot | Sizes: One size | RRP: £16.95 for a pack of three |

For a subtle red, white and blue look, try these socks from Joules.

View now at naylors.com

Union Jack hat silk 

RRP: From £16 |

Show your support for the team when you’re out and about on your horse.

View now at ebay.co.uk

Shires Moretta Gabriella boots

Colours: Brown or navy | Sizes: 4–9, with four width options | RRP: £170 |

The small Union Jack on these is a nice touch to keep the dream alive after the Olympics are over.

View now at equus.co.uk

Toggi GBR Shady

Colours: Navy | Sizes: One size | RRP: £16.50 |

This cap is made from breathable stretch fabric and is equipped with UPF 50+ protection.

View now at elandlodge.com

WeatherBeeta Polar fleece cooler 

Colours: Navy/red/white | Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in | RRP: £44.99 |

Kit your horse out in red, white and blue so he feels like a superstar when he next steps off the lorry.

View now at naylors.com

Union Jack retro sunglasses

RRP: £3.49 |

Just for fun, these glasses will be sure to come in handy over the next few weeks.

View now at amazon.co.uk

Woof Wear ergonomic fly veil 

Colours: Navy/red | Sizes: Cob or full | RRP: £17.99 |

Another red, white and blue accessory for your horse to help him perform like a champ.

View now at naylors.com

Toggi Airy GBR technical ladies’ polo 

Colours: Navy | Sizes: 10–18 | RRP: £40 |

Perfect for wearing in the saddle or at the yard, this technical polo is also available in a men’s style.

View now at naylors.com

Toggi GBR Be Eco bamboo ladies’ socks

Colours: Navy/red | Sizes: One size (4–8) | RRP: £17.50 for a pack of three |

Part of Toggi’s GBR collection, these socks are made from bamboo, which is sustainable and contains a natural antibacterial agent to help keep your feet fresh.

View now at naylors.com

Gallop Shop Union Jack saddle pad and ears set

Sizes: Pony, cob or full | RRP: £49.50 |

View now at ebay.co.uk

Dublin socks

Colours: Navy/red | Sizes: One size | RRP: £12.99 for a pack of three |

If none of the socks have caught your eye yet, maybe these ones are your cup of tea?

View now at naylors.com

Ariat New Team softshell jacket

Colours: Team | Sizes: XS–XXL | RRP: £105 |

A softshell jacket as smart as this one will always come in handy.

View now at ariat.com

You might also like:

‘The best Olympics ever’: statistics predict high hopes for British eventers in Tokyo

H&H Olympic reporter’s blog: ‘I never thought access would be dependent on my spit quality…’

10 summer riding tops you’ll want to add to your wardrobe

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

Would you like unrestricted access to Horse & Hound’s independent journalism with less adverts? Gain unlimited access to Horse & Hound today and you can read everything on horseandhound.co.uk whenever suits you

World number two Kate French heads the four-strong British modern pentathlon squad for the Tokyo Olympics.

Kate is joined by her fellow Rio 2016 Olympians Joseph Choong and James Cooke, as well as Olympic debutante Joanna Muir.

Modern pentathlon comprises fencing, swimming and showjumping on borrowed horses, culminating with the laser-run (laser pistol shooting and cross-country running).

Kate, 30, heads into the Games following her victory in the World Cup final in Hungary in May, where she set a new women’s world record in the fencing. She was also fifth at the 2016 Olympics and won silver at the 2019 European Championships.

Tokyo will be the first Olympics for Joanna, 26, who is currently ranked sixth in the world and heads the UIPM’s World Cup ranking list.

James, 30, set a new Olympic modern pentathlon swim record at the 2016 Games. In 2018, he was the first British man in more than 25 years to be crowned modern pentathlon world champion, which he followed up with gold at the 2019 Europeans.

Joseph, 26, finished 10th on his Olympic debut at Rio and has since held the world champion and world number one titles.

“This team has put in some incredibly strong performances this season and they are fully deserving of their selection to Team GB for the Tokyo Olympic Games,” said Team GB chef de mission for the Games, Mark England.

“They, along with so many other Team GB athletes, have demonstrated the determination and commitment required to perform at the highest level despite the challenging circumstances that everyone has faced over the last 13 months.

“I’d like to congratulate them all on this superb achievement and look forward to welcoming them to Tokyo next month.”

Article continues below…

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Modern pentathlon: all you need to know

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Pentathlon GB’s performance director Jan Bartu added: “It has been remarkable return to competition for our British pentathletes this year. Despite the long break from competition, the team have trained well in challenging circumstances and continued to perform well on the international stage.

“Despite not being able to conclude the Olympic Games qualification season for reasons beyond our control, the athletes still achieved the UIPM Olympic Games qualification standard, confirming the strength and depth of the team and the performance programme at Pentathlon GB, and I want to take the opportunity to congratulate the whole squad and coaches on this achievement.

“I also want to thank the whole team of staff who have supported the athletes, particularly over the past year and throughout the pandemic.

“The team selected have proven form and experience and are looking forward to representing Team GB in Tokyo, but we still have more preparation to do at home in Bath, and will continue to focus on doing everything we can to ensure we are as ready as we can be when the Games come around.”

This is the final year that the modern pentathlon will continue in its current format at the Olympics. A new look for the sport has been developed for Paris 2024, condensing all five phases into a 90 minutes to make it easier for people to follow and broadcast.

British modern pentathlon squad:

Women

• Kate French
• Joanna Muir

Men

• Joseph Choong
• James Cooke

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 to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens 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

Big Star, Valegro and Chilli Morning are set to make guest appearances at Cheltenham’s Countryside Day next month (15 November).

Sir AP McCoy will also be trying his hand at dressage in a lesson with London 2012 Olympic team gold and individual bronze medallist Laura Tomlinson.

The day is a fundraiser for the Countryside Alliance and also this year for Equestrian Team GBR, to raise money towards the expenses of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

“I am very excited about giving AP a lesson on one of our homebred grand prix horses,” said Laura. “It should be very entertaining seeing how he handles a very different type of power to what he is used to!”

The demonstration will take place at 11.45am in the parade ring, ahead of the racing.

This is not Sir AP’s first foray into dressage at Cheltenham — in 2015, the 20-time champion jockey returned to the paddock for a lesson aboard Barolo with Charlotte Dujardin.

“I don’t think AP has cantered this slowly in his life before,” said Yogi Breisner at the time.

Article continues below…

You might also be interested in:

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

AP McCoy turns his hand to dressage at Cheltenham

AP McCoy performed a dressage demo with Charlotte Dujardin at Cheltenham

Big Star back in the ring — with John Whitaker on board

I‘ thought I could show them all how it’s done!’

Multiple Olympic gold medal-winners Big Star and Valegro and 2015 Badminton victor Chilli Morning will be parading for fans.

They will be joined by dual Champion Chase winner Sprinter Sacre, one of the most successful and much-loved chasers of recent years, who completes the quartet of retired equine sporting heroes.

A silent auction, which will start on 26 October and run until 15 November, is expected to be one of the main fundraisers. This will include money can’t buy lots, donated by top British riders.

Gates open at 10.40am and racing starts at 12.30pm.

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

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

Belgian riders made history with their gold medal-winning performance in Rotterdam today to take the country’s first ever European team showjumping medal.

The top three sides remained unchanged over night, with Belgium adding just one time fault to their first day total to secure the win ahead of Germany in silver.

Consistently strong performances from Britain across the three days were rewarded with a team bronze medal Olympic qualification.

There were three team qualifying spots available for the 2020 Games at these championships and the other two places went to Belgium and fourth-placed France.

“This is an unbelievable day and I’m very proud of our team,” said Belgian chef d’equipe Peter Weinberg. “We have four top riders with brilliant horses and they did a fantastic job.”

The side of Pieter Devos (Claire Z), Jos Verlooy (Igor), Jerome Guery (Quel Homme De Hus) and Gregory Wathelet (MJT Nevados S) held their overnight lead to add just one time fault from the final round to their first day score of 11.07.

Just 0.15 penalties separated Belgium and Germany with the final two riders left to jump. Daniel Deusseur and Scuderia 1918 Tobago Z tipped the blue and white rail at 10b to a collective sigh from the crowd. This meant Belgian team anchor Gregory had a fence in hand — but no more — as he rode into the arena.

The experience rider kept a cool head to jump a fantastic clear with the 11-year-old grey and clinch the gold for Belgium.

Britain showed their class with a third consecutive clear for Ben Maher and Explosion W, who are in the individual lead ahead of Sunday’s contest.

Holly Smith and Hearts Destiny were next to go and jumped out of order due to the 10-year-old Heart Throb gelding springing a shoe in the warm-up. But the combination did not let that rattle them and they put in a strong performance, just knocking the final part of the candy-coloured treble at five, to strengthen Britain’s position and take themselves into Sunday’s final.

Amanda Derbyshire and Luibanta BH had an early pole at fence three, before jumping cleanly across the rest of the course.

“She is a little horse with a big heart and she always goes in there and tries her best,” said Amanda. “I know I had an unlucky rail, but I’m just so happy with her.”

The strength of the British side meant the team was guaranteed a medal before Scott Brash and Hello M’Lady jumped. The pair finished their round on eight faults, lowering the Longines upright at four and the triple rail.

“I think we are all delighted to be going back with a medal,” he said. “The main thing was Olympic qualification, so to secure that and to also go home with a medal, I think we are all absolutely delighted and chuffed.”

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Luck was lacking for defending European Champions Ireland’s luck in the team competition, finishing seventh and out of reach of the Olympic qualification places.

However Rodrigo Pessoa’s side has two riders through to the individual final. These are championship first-timer Peter Moloney (Chianti’s Champion) in provisional 13th and Darragh Kenny (Balou Du Reventon) who is lying in 17th.

Horses and riders have a day off tomorrow (Saturday) and the individual medals will be decided on Sunday afternoon (25 August).

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Britain and Ireland are both through to the team jumping final where medals and Olympic qualification are on offer today (Friday, 23 August) at the Longines FEI European Showjumping Championships.

At the start of the week, 10 of the 15 nations in the team championship arrived hoping to take home one of the three tickets to Tokyo.

The top 10 teams following yesterday and Wednesday’s qualifying rounds will jump this afternoon and there are six countries left in the mix for the three Olympic spots.

These are overnight leaders Belgium, Britain, which is in provisional bronze, France (provisional fourth), Italy (lying in sixth), Ireland (currently eighth) and Denmark (lying 10th).

The draw is in reverse order, meaning defending European Champions Ireland have been drawn third to go and Britain is the eighth team on the start list. Germany, which is currently holding provisional silver and already has its Olympic qualification, will be the penultimate team to jump with overnight leaders Belgium last to go.

Cian O’Connor and PSG Final will be the first combination into the arena for Ireland in 13th, with Britain’s Ben Maher and Explosion W — overnight leaders of the individual contest — five riders later in 19th.

Shane Sweetnam (Alejandro) is next to go for Ireland and is set to jump just before 4.30pm. Holly Smith and Hearts Destiny, who produced a fantastic clear for Britain yesterday and are lying 11th individually, will start just after the half-way point at number 29 in the running order.

The third riders for the respective teams — championship debutant Peter Moloney (Chianti’s Champion) and Britain’s top finisher at the 2018 World Equestrian Games Amanda Derbyshire (Luibanta BH) — are 34th and 39th to go.

Ireland’s team anchor Darragh Kenny (Balou Du Reventon), who is the nation’s highest-placed individual so far in 12th, is number 43 on the start list; while London 2012 Olympic gold medallist Scott Brash (Hello M’Lady) is the third-last rider to jump.

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Individuals who are not competing on a team, or whose team has not made it through to today’s final, will be first to jump. Austria’s Max Kühner, in provisional ninth, will be the last individual rider to go before the start of the team contest.

Less than a fence separates the top nine riders and other individuals worth looking out for are Switzerland’s Steve Guerdat and the superstar mare Albfuehren’s Bianca, who are 45th to jump. The pair made yesterday’s challenging track look easy and are sitting in provisional silver place behind Ben Maher.

French rider Alexis Deroubaix (Timon d’Aure) are holding the bronze spot at the moment and are sandwiched between defending individual champions Peder Fredricson and H&M All In and Scott Brash in the starting order at number 48.

Today’s team final kicks off at 3pm (2pm BST) and will be broadcast live on the BBC red button. Click here for the full running order.

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Germany proved unstoppable yet again to take their fifth British eventing Nations Cup title on the trot.

To say the Saracen Horse Feeds Houghton International Horse Trials (23-26 May) is a happy hunting ground for the German side would be an understatement, with the team making it five wins in five years.

The youthful team led from the start, with Ingrid Klimke and the exciting young mare Asha P in pole position after the dressage on 23.2 and team-mate Christoph Walher and Carjatan S in second.

Two rolled poles for Ingrid gave other nations a glimmer of hope that they could be caught. Clear showjumping rounds from all four of the Brits resulted in the team moving up from sixth to fourth ahead of cross-country.

Christoph, 25, and Carjatan S produced a masterclass in how to ride Alec Lochore’s influential track, coming home five seconds inside the time to win individually and secure Germany’s victory.

But the result was close, with just 0.6 of a penalty separating Germany (90.6) and second-placed Sweden (91.2), who are chasing Olympic qualification this year.

The Swedes showed their team’s consistency, with three riders inside the top 10, headed by second-placed Louise Romeike and Waikiki 207.

The British side, made up of three senior team debutants and Badminton winner Piggy French, continued their strong performances to record four clear jumping cross-country rounds and finish third on 99.2.

“We like it here!” laughed German chef d’equipe Hans Melzer.

“Every time we have come with a different team and everybody is so motivated to compete here.

“I thought in the beginning that the course was more twisty than in the past, but once we had walked it two or three times you could see it and in the end it was good to ride so I think Alec did a super job.”

Ingrid, 11th individually, added it is “always a pleasure” to win as a part of a team.

“It was really worth coming as it was a wonderful competition and I had two really lovely cross-country rounds with my two young mares,” she said, adding her horses “learned a lot” from the design of the course. “They showed me their quality and were a pleasure to ride.”

Jerome Robine (Quaddeldou R), who finished seventh, and Felix Etzel (Bandit 436), 19th, completed the winning side.

British team anchors Piggy French and Cooley Monsoon enjoyed a beautiful cross-country round, with the 10-year-old gelding’s ears pricked the whole way. The pair added nothing to their dressage score of 29.2 to finish fourth.

Civil engineering student Richard Coney was among the trio making their first British team appearance. The 20-year-old and his junior horse Kananaskis gave a confident performance to finish ninth individually.

“A huge amount of people put their names forwards, so to get picked is very nice, especially considering the calibre of the people here,” said Richard.

“You can never be sure how they are going to perform on the day, but he is pretty consistent across country, so he had it in him to go fast and clear, which is what he did. He was really on form.”

Bubby Upton, 20, added it was “a real honour” to be selected with Fernhill Rock Star.

“I said at the beginning of the week that I wanted a run that was fault free in every phase and that’s exactly what he did,” she said.

“He was quite feisty at the start of the cross-country and I was thinking, ‘come on, let’s concentrate on the fences here’, but he knows his job so well and really helped me out, especially in the water when I lost a rein. He just said, ‘I’ve got it, Mum’. He knows exactly what he is doing and I love him so much.”

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Eliza Stoddart was “absolutely thrilled” with the consistently improving Dick O Malley and said being part of the team was “an amazing experience”.

“It’s my first team appeareance and it was a huge honour to be selected,” she said.

“I’ve had the horse for just over two seasons now, so this is amazing for his owners [the Flint Syndicate]. This was brilliant preparation for Luhmühlen, where he heads next, I hope I can build on this in the future.

“He is an unbelievable jumping horse and he really travels and gallops. His dressage is improving all the time. When he came to me he didn’t know anything on the flat, so there was a lot of work to do there and I’m sure there’s still lots to come from him.”

For the full report from Houghton, plus all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss this week’s Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday, 30 May

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Nicola Wilson was the first British team member into the arena this morning (Thursday, 8 October) at the final leg of the 2015 FEI Nations Cup Eventing series.

Nicola, riding Ramscove Ltd’s Kiltealy Brief, was today revealed as the fourth member of the team competing at the event in Boekelo, The Netherlands (8-11 October).

Her dressage mark of 49.8 has leaves her in 22nd place at the end of the first day.

Izzy Taylor has also had to withdraw her original team ride, KBIS Starburst, due to a minor knock while travelling to the event.

She will now be riding Briarlands Birdsong, owned by Bridget Lyne, and is due to ride her dressage test just after 11am tomorrow morning (Friday, 9 October).

Joining the pair on the team is Emily Parker with Cindy Onslow’s Diamond Sundance and Dani Evans riding Smart Time, owned by Luana Edge.

“The primary purpose of campaigning the Nations Cup series is to give riders who have not been regular members of Senior Championship teams experience of working and competing within a team environment and to get them out competing against the best continental riders,” said Team GBR’s eventing performance manager Yogi Breisner.

Emily is currently the highest-placed British team rider in 12th on a score of 46.5. Dani will be last to go for the team at 3.13pm tomorrow afternoon (Friday, 9 October).

Britain is in first place in the series going into this final event — nine points ahead of second-placed Germany with Australia in third.

The results from Boekelo will also be the decider of this year’s Fairfax Britannia League.

This league is for riders that are competing at British CIC3* and CCI3* competitions, as well as Nations Cups, who have not represented Team GBR at Olympic, European or World Equestrian Games.

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British riders have arrived in France and all horses have all passed the trot up in advance of this week’s FEI European Para Equestrian Dressage Championships in Deauville, France (18-20 September).

The team is made up of:

• Grade Ia, Sophie Christiansen with Athene Lindebjerg
• Grade Ia, Anne Dunham with LJT Lucas Normark
• Grade Ib, Lee Pearson and Zion
• Grade IV, Sophie Wells with C Fatal Attraction
• Grade II’s Natasha Baker will compete as an individual with Sookie St James.

“It’s a great atmosphere here in Deauville,” Natasha told H&H today (Thursday, 17 September). “The horses are very relaxed and have been going very well.

“We have a very young squad of horses with three new horses at championship level so it’s exciting to do see how they get on tomorrow.

“I have the youngest horse so I’m just hoping to have a nice confidence-giving clean test tomorrow and fingers crossed the judges love her.”

Seventy-two riders from 20 nations will compete in the championships

Team GBR has dominated championships in the past, and the riders will be hoping for similar results this year.

At the last Europeans, in Herning, Denmark in 2013, Great Britain topped the medal table with seven golds.

However, in this year’s competition there is likely to be strong competition from Germany and the Netherlands.

Sophie Christiansen will be representing Britain in Grade Ia. She took three gold medals at both London 2012 and at the Europeans in 2013, as well as picking up two at last year’s World Equestrian Games.

However, she’ll be up against team mate Anne Dunham, who won consecutive gold medals at four Paralympic Games starting in Atlanta in 1996.

In the grade Ib 10-time Paralympic gold medallist Lee Pearson will face tough competition from Austria’s Pepo Puch, the Netherlands’ Nicole Den Dulk and Stinna Tange Kaastrup of Denmark.

In grade II Natasha Baker goes against Holland’s Rixt Van Der Horst, who took both individual titles at last year’s World Equestrian Games.

In Grade IV Belgium’s Michèle George is the rider to beat, with the Netherlands’ Frank Hosmar and Britain’s Sophie Wells aiming on doing just that.

H&H blogger Sophie Wells is now riding her direct reserve horse, Charlotte Hogg’s C Fatal Attraction, an eight-year-old gelding.

The change comes after Sophie’s original ride Valerius “did not feel quite right” and it was decided in the best interests of the horse to withdraw him from the upcoming competition.

The competition gets underway tomorrow (Friday, 18 September) with the team test.

The individual tests take place on Saturday (after which the team and the first individual medals will be decided) before the weekend’s competition concludes with the individual freestyle test on Sunday.

Keep in touch with all the action with daily reports here on HorseandHound.co.uk

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Dani Evans is out of the British squad for the FEI Longines European Eventing Championships at Blair Castle in Scotland (10-13 September).

Sarah Bullimore has now been called up on her own and her husband Brett’s Lilly Corrine.

The first trot-up is at 3pm today (Wednesday 9 September) and Sarah is on site.

Great Britain’s chef d’equipe Yogi Breisner said that Smart Time (pictured, top), who is owned by Luana Edge, felt a little under the weather and “wasn’t quite himself”.

“A routine set of bloods were taken, which are not quite right and in the best interests of the horse we have decided to withdraw him from the competition,” Yogi added. “All the other British horses travelled well and are in good form.”

Dani, 23, was set to make her senior squad debut at Blair this week.

The combination took second place in the under-25 CCI3* at Bramham in June and Dani was also part of the gold medal-winning team at the young rider eventing Europeans in 2011, which was held at Blair.

The senior selectors revealed this morning (Wednesday 9 September) that Sarah, 42, from Keysoe in Bedfordshire, and Lilly Corinne would fill Dani’s place.

The experienced three-star combination’s best results include fourth at the CICO3* Nations Cup in Waregem, Belgium, and second at Barbury Castle CIC2*, both in 2014.

They have also been frequent members of Nations Cup teams in the past few years.

The pair join the British squad of Laura Collett (Grand Manoeuvre), Gemma Tattersall (Arctic Soul), Izzy Taylor (KBIS Briarlands Matilda), William Fox-Pitt (Bay My Hero), Oliver Townend (Fenyas Elegance), Pippa Funnell (Sandman 7), Francis Whittington (Easy Target), Kitty King (Persimmon), Nicola Wilson (One Two Many), Wills Oakden (Greystone Midnight Melody) and Holly Woodhead (DHI Lupison).

See this week’s H&H out now for a full preview and course walk with Andrew Hoy.

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Britain’s young showjumpers have brought home a host of medals from the FEI European Championships in Austria.

Held in Wiener Neustadt from 10-16 August, the event included the junior, young rider and children on horses European Championships.

The British junior team took bronze at the event on Friday (14 August) on a final total of 20 penalties.

Germany rolled just two poles to win European junior gold and Ireland secured silver on a score of 12 penalties.

The British bronze medal-winning junior team was made up of Harry Charles on Vivaldi Du Dom, Millie Allen on Balou Star, Faye Adams on Zozo CL and Robert Murphy on Del Fuego.

Yesterday (Sunday 16 August), British team members Harry and Millie also took individual silver and bronze respectively.

France’s Camille Conde Ferreira on Pirole De La Chatre won gold.

Harry (pictured, top), son of London 2012 Olympic gold medal-winning showjumper Peter Charles, was in seventh position following the first round of the individual competition.

But the 16-year-old put in strong performances in the remaining rounds – rolling just one pole – to move up to silver.

Peter said he was “extremely proud” of his son.

“He really has done his family, team and country proud,” he added.

“A big thank you to all our sponsors and support team behind the scenes we really couldn’t do it without them.”

Millie’s individual bronze was the 10th medal she has won for Great Britain at a youth championships.

Millie and Harry’s individual medals took Team GBR’s total tally to four from the championships.

On Thursday (13 August), Great Britain’s children on horses team won silver.

Meanwhile, the British young rider team narrowly missed out on a podium place.

The Brits finished fourth out of 14 nations on a score of eight penalties and less than three seconds behind bronze medallists Ireland.

Belgium won gold on a clean sheet and Germany took silver with eight penalties.

The young rider team was made up of Chloe Winchester on Avoca Valkyrie, Chloe Aston on Merqusio, Jake Saywell on Grand Cru Van Paemel and Emma O’Dwyer on HHS Figaro.

Chloe and Avoca Valkyrie were also the highest-placed British combination in the individual competition – finishing fourth.

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Great Britain’s children on horses team has won silver at the FEI European Championships in Austria.

The team took second place at the youth showjumping championships in Wiener Neustadt yesterday (Thursday 13 August) following a long day of competition.

Germany won gold on a score of one penalty and Poland took Bronze.

The British team was made up of Hallie Lunn on Brookwood Supersonic, Oliver Fletcher on Little Business, Lottie Tutt on Babylon and India Bussey on Westwinds Ego.

Coming forward into the second day of the team competition, Team GBR was on a score of zero and in joint first position with Italy and France.

After the first of yesterday’s two rounds, the British riders picked up just four faults to go into fourth place.

In the second round, India, Hallie and Oliver all jumped clear to keep GBR on a final score of four faults.

A nail-biting finish meant placings were undecided until the final rider from the 22 nations competing had jumped the 1.25m course.

Speaking yesterday (Thursday, 13 August), chef d’equipe Alan Fazakerley said that each rider contributed “brilliantly”.

“All four delivered played a major part in them winning team silver and they should all be very proud of themselves,” he said.

He added that while all played a great role, Oliver – son of H&H columnist Olympic gold medallist Graham Fletcher – deserves a mention.

“He put in a particularly big performance at the incredibly young age of just 12 with his double clear and he deserves praise for that,” he said.

“It’s been a long day and the way that each of the riders have handled the tension that comes with that when there is such a lengthy break between rounds makes me feel honoured to be representing them.”

The junior and young rider team competitions are underway today (Friday, 14 August) and the children on horses’ individual medals will be decided tomorrow (Saturday, 15 August).

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After three riders in the team dressage competition at the FEI European Championships (Thursday, 13 August), Germany has its nose in front.

The Netherlands hold the silver medal position and Great Britain are in third, following Carl Hester’s performance with Nip Tuck (pictured).

The partnership’s 74.4% test — which will be a counting score for the British team — puts them in fifth individually, just behind Fiona Bigwood (Atterupgaards Orthilia).

Carl’s test on “Barney” was not mistake-free, but there were some real highlights.

“He was very good coming towards C, but towards A something caught his eye; I don’t know what,” said Carl. “We had minor mistakes, but I’m delighted with him.”

For team Germany, Matthias Rath and Totilas were expected to produce a plus-80% score for the host nation, but their test was rewarded with 75.971%, much to the rider’s disappointment.

“I’m happy with the horse,” he said. “But not with the points.

“For sure I have done worse tests for more than 80%, but today was good and we only got 76%.”

The judges also looked unsure how to treat the pair. His scores ranged from 71.6% (France’s Jean-Michel Roudier) to 80.7% (Susanne Baarup and Andrew Gardner). Three judges had him in first place and one as low as 12th.

Totilas’ score means that the door for the British team to snatch gold is still open, despite Nip Tuck’s slightly disappointing score.

But the ride of the session was Dutchman Hans Peter Minderhoud on the imposing stallion Glock’s Johnson (pictured), who was resplendent in his power and grace. They currently top the individual leaderboard with 77.586%.

The final riders from every team will compete this afternoon, including Britain’s trump card, Charlotte Dujardin on Valegro. For Holland Edward Gal is yet to go on Glock’s Undercover, and Germany’s Kristina Bröring-Sprehe is the very last competitor, at 6.30pm UK time.

“Everyone’s been talking about Valegro versus Totilas,” said Carl. “But for us riders, looking at the warm-up arenas, we need to be looking out for Desperados because he looks fantastic.”

Charlotte’s ride on Valegro is at 6pm UK time, but the most pressure will be on Kristina, as she and the German team will know exactly what score is required to earn a team medal of any colour.

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Nicola Wilson has had an “emotional” final run on her TeamGB stalwart Opposition Buzz who has now been retired.

Nicola Wilson and the 17-year-old gelding rode in their last competition — finishing second in the advanced at Allerton Park (pictured below right) — on Saturday (20 September).

Nicola announced on Twitter the night before that it would be “Dodi’s” last event and was

“touched” by the amount of supporters to came to see final run.

“The crowd made it so special,” Nicola told H&H. “He was clapped and cheered from start to finish.

“He has had a super year it seemed fitting for a Yorkshire bred, owned and ridden horse to finish at a Yorkshire event.”

Dodi was dropped down from four-star level after last year’s Burghley but he has had a successful season at three-star with seven top-ten finishes.

Nicola and his owner/breeder Rosemary Search have now decided that he should be retired.

“He is a horse that has his own instruction manual,” Nicola said.

“He is still so enthusiastic. He wouldn’t know when the right time for him to retire would be, so it is up to us to make the right decision.

“It is so lovely that he has finished his fantastic career still sound and he has got lots of years left to enjoy the retirement he deserves.”

Dodi is going to spend his retirement at Nicola’s Yorkshire base where he will be hacked out by his long-term groom Lynn Swift and may also be used as a “nanny” for younger horses at events.

“I’m sure he will be sad when he sees the horsebox go out but he will still very much be King of the yard,” added Nicola.

“He is very laid back and enjoys hacking and being in the field

“He certainly won’t miss his dressage schooling but he will miss the cross-country.”

Nicola and Dodi have completed 11 four-stars and represented TeamGB at four championships.

“He has many fabulous memories to re-live,” Nicola added.

“It is his cross-country that has been amazing. I will always remember whizzing around all those cross-country tracks with ease.

“I will probably never have a horse quite like him again.”

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Britain claimed individual silver and team bronze medals at the young rider European Championships in Herdade Vale Sabroso, Portugal, last week (18-21 September).

Holly Woodhead remained on her dressage score riding her father Ian and stepmother Heidi’s DHI Lupison to rise from 18th after dressage to take the individual silver.

Tom Jackson provided the second best team score for the Askham Bryan-sponsored British team — making amends for a fall at the final fence at last year’s championships — when he claimed seventh on his own and his parents Sara and Ian’s Waltham Fiddlers Find.

David Doel led the dressage, but had a run-out of a double of corners on a tough cross-country day. He and Miss Caruso, who he co-owns with Jane James, still finished 19th to help the Brits to bronze.

Britain’s other riders also all completed — they were team member Alexandra Liddle on John Huntridge’s Romeo Z (22nd) and individuals Isabella Innes Ker on her mother the Duchess of Roxburghe’s Rosses Captain (21st) and Sophie Beaty riding her own and Alison Booth’s Stanly (33rd).

Chairman of selectors Alex Colquhoun said: “After yesterday’s disappointments [only Holly and Tom jumped clear across country], I am so thrilled for all the riders. They lowered just two poles between them during some fantastic showjumping.

“It has been a roller coaster of a week, and in the end a team bronze and individual silver for Holly is a great result.”

Strong cross-country performances elevated Ireland from fourth after dressage to eventual team gold.

Their performance was spearheaded by individual bronze medallist Elizabeth Hayden (Miracle) and fourth-placed Harold Megahey on the former William Fox-Pitt horse Chuckelberry. The other team members were Joshua Pim with The Irish Miracle (ninth) and Jodie O’Keefe on Kachemire Le Beau (eliminated).

Team manager Sally Corscadden said: “It’s been a fantastic week in very tough weather conditions and I’m very proud of the riders battling all week. All six riders were absolutely brilliant.

“We have a brilliant support team Ian, Heike, Will, professional grooms and fantastic parents.

“All our plans came together, the athletes rode confidently and rode to orders with very tough ground conditions. We are absolutely delighted, it’s fantastic.”

Horse Sport Ireland chairman Prof Patrick Wall said: “A wonderful team performance with a great support team once again demonstrates the benefits of the Horse Sport Ireland high performance training programme for our talented young riders. With these rising stars in the pipeline the future for Ireland in international eventing is looking great.”

Ireland’s individuals — Tony Kennedy (Westeria Lane) and Jennifer Diamond (Early Spring) — both finished in the top 15.

The individual gold medal went to Germany’s Charlotte Sophia Hachmeister, who held onto her lead despite two showjumps down with Kassio 10.

Don’t miss a full report in H&H next week, out Thursday, 2 October.

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

As part of Horse & Hound's 130th birthday celebrations, we will be supporting and promoting "130 equestrian good causes" via regular online round-ups of events being run by the equestrian community.

Team GBR sponsors Badminton

Team GBR is the official benefactor of the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials. Course walks led by Zara Philips, Richard Waygood, Phil Surl and other top eventers will take place at the event. There will also be merchandise and competitions to raise money for WEG and the Olympics.

“The Hoof mechanical horse, Henry will also be at Badminton — not only will he be giving rides to the public but he’ll also be doing his own warm up for Badminton, training with a couple of riders, checking out the stables, appearing at the trot up and getting a preview of the cross-country course,” said Claire Shand, from the British Equestrian Federation.

Get more information

The Exmoor Pony Festival poster competition

The Exmoor Pony Festival is holding a poster competition for schools. The top prize is an Exmoor pony experience. There are 2 age groups for the competition — 5-9 years and 10-13 years with 2 separate categories — Exmoor and Out of Exmoor.

“We are delighted to be running a competition to involve schools in the Exmoor Pony Festival and we are hoping for a great turnout of entries from far and wide,” said Sue McGeever from the Exmoor Pony Society. “The competition will be running throughout the spring so that the winning artwork can be used in the promotional work for the Exmoor Pony Festival in August and a display of the posters will be available for all to see.”

Get entry details here

World Horse Welfare needs volunteers

Badminton final scores

World Horse Welfare is appealing for volunteers in Norfolk. Extra help is needed for general yard duties and to help maintain the garden areas.

“I really enjoy volunteering at World Horse Welfare. I love having contact with the horses and doing different jobs around the yard,” said Sue Haughey, who currently volunteers with the charity. “Fresh air, exercise, and the company of the staff that work here make it a very worthwhile experience for me.”

Find out more about volunteering

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

One thing British showjumping has lacked in recent years is strength in depth. But recent grand prix results around the world have shown that things are definitely on the up.

On the Sunshine Tour alone, we’ve had several podium placings — and a lot are coming from a swelling group of younger riders. Even though none of them are in the top world rankings, you can see the talent coming through.

It’s particularly good to see recent grand prix victor William Whitaker among them. He had to take a step back after he left Michael Whitaker’s yard, but he’s started to get one or two nice horses. With a bit of backing, he could be up there with Ben Maher and Scott Brash.

It doesn’t matter how well you ride, you still need good horses to win grands prix. We’ve always moaned that it’s success we’ve needed to attract good owners. Hopefully on the back of Great Britain’s recent triumphs, we can maintain the support we’ve had from owners — and add new ones.

Bringing the sport home…

Having several new high-profile international shows in Britain this year is another way to keep owners interested.

People ask why we can’t attract the top international riders to Great Britain. Well, if you provide a five-star fixture and good money, they’ll come. But if it’s a choice between a

three-star in Belgium or France and one here, then obviously they’re going to avoid the boat ride.

I’ve always thought Royal Windsor was a sleeping giant — we’ve never really made as much of the venue as we could. Hopefully, its new three-star status will earn the support it needs from riders and crowds.

Bolesworth organiser Nina Barbour has a three-year vision in which she hopes to take the show to five-star level and I really hope it works. But it’s also great to see one of our mainstay events, Hickstead, attracting a new title sponsor for the Derby.

Five-star shows — including the Global Champions Tours and Nations Cups — are really

something to aspire to. So wouldn’t it be great to have owners keen to help our young riders reach the top 30 in the rankings so they can contest these shows, both at home

and abroad?

…and taking it overseas

Rob Hoekstra tells me that, as reigning Olympic and European champions, we’ve been invited to compete in all eight of the Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup top league

competitions this year — not just the four at which we bid for points.

This means that, as well as playing about with his top players and World Equestrian Games contenders, Rob can test new names, without the pressure of chasing points — although we still like to win!

There are a lot of capable riders out there and this competition from young talent is healthy for me and the other senior team members. We’re still on a high from recent championship successes, but we need to qualify for the Olympics and it’s a lot easier to do it at this year’s WEG rather than leaving it till next year’s Europeans, when it becomes a bit of a lottery.

Last year, we didn’t have Nick Skelton and Big Star, so if you put him back in the equation, plus a few new names, as well as returning riders such as Tim Gredley — who

proved his credentials with a double clear in the recent Nations Cup in Florida — it’s a very exciting time.

Have bed, will travel

Sunday nights are party nights on the Spanish Sunshine Tour and, because my staff work so hard, I’m happy to let them join in the fun — as long as they’re ready and able to

work again the following morning.

With this in mind, my new lad Luke, on his first trip abroad, found himself in a bit of a dilemma after a particularly late one last week. Being the conscientious worker he is, he didn’t want to risk being late for work so he decided to go straight to the stables, filled a

wheelbarrow with rugs and fell fast asleep in this makeshift bed. Of course, he was still snoring when everyone turned up the next morning and the resulting photos were shared all over social media.

Within hours, I had Luke’s concerned mother on the phone asking whether the accommodation I’d arranged for her son was really up to standard…

William’s comment was first published in Horse & Hound (20 March, 2014)

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Riders have expressed dismay that the shortlist for BBC Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) does not contain a single equestrian.

The 12 contenders include Olympic heroes Mo Farah, Sir Chris Hoy and Jessica Ennis and tennis player Andy Murray, who won his first grand slam as well as Olympic gold this year. Gold medallist and Britain’s first winner of the Tour de France, Bradley Wiggins is the bookies’ favourite to lift the trophy on Sunday, 16 December.

Event rider Harry Dzenis reflected the feelings of many H&H readers when he tweeted: “No equestrians chosen! Charlotte Dujardin’s amazing double gold or our showjumping team’s gold was surely worthy?”

The British Grooms Association tweeted that it was great to hear Radio 2 presenter Chris Evans “commenting on the lack of equestrians in the SPOTY list”.

Chris enthused about Team GBR’s equestrians on his breakfast show during the Olympics, and persuaded the Greenwich Tavern to rename itself The Gold and Saddle.

Barbara Slater, director of BBC Sport acknowledged that the SPOTY shortlist would disappoint many in her blog.

“Team GB notched up an incredible 29 gold medals, with Paralympics GB adding a further 34.

“It was very difficult to leave off Olympians and Paralympians of the calibre of Charlotte Dujardin and triple paralympic gold medallist Sophie Christiansen,” she said.

“In any other year these sportspeople would probably be front-runners to win the overall award,” she added.

After last year’s furore, when not a single woman was nominated for SPOTY, the BBC has made changes to the judging panel. This year’s nominees included Olympians Sir Steve Redgrave and Denise Lewis and paralympian Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson.

The show will be broadcast live on Sunday, 16 December at 7.35pm on BBC 1 and BBC Radio Five Live and members of the viewing public will vote on the night to decide who is crowned Sports Personality of the Year.

Winners of the team, coach and overseas sports personality of the year — who were chosen by the shortlist panel — will be announced on the night.

Andrew Finding, chief executive of the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has been campaigning for the Olympic and Paralympic riders to win the team award.

Who do you think should have made the short-list? Share your views in H&H forum

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

H&H brings you some facts and figures for Team GBR…

• 2 riders have been to 5 previous Olympics – Mary King and Nick Skelton (who also rode in the ‘alternative Olympics’ in 1980)
• 57 is how old Richard Davison will be, making him, at the time of going to press, the oldest GBR athlete at the Games (sorry, Richard!)
• 39.92 is the average age of GB’s riders
• There are 4 riders over 50: Richard Davison, Mary King, Nick Skelton and Peter Charles
• It’s 36 years since we fielded an Olympic showjumping team without a single Whitaker on it
• 3 of the team (Nick, Peter and Mary) have broken their necks and Nick has also had a new hip
• 23 past Olympics have been contended by Equestrian Team GBR collectively

The next generation:

• the squad has 9 sons and 4 daughters between them
• Nick Skelton’s son Dan is assistant trainer to Paul Nicholls and his other son, Harry, is a jockey
• William Fox-Pitt and wife Alice have two young boys and another child on the way
• Richard Davison’s son Tom was in rock band Dakota
• Mary King’s daughter Emily is also an eventer

In this week’s issue of H&H (5 July) find out why Richard Davison is relieved to be back on the team and what our chances of a showjumping medal are

Catch up with all the latest Olympic news

The popular Open meeting at Cheltenham racecourse will be held over three days from Friday 11 November.

This is when many of the best horses from Britain and Ireland will lock horns for the first time this season. Reputations can be made or broken, new heroes will emerge and the atmosphere is a mixture of fun and spine-tingling excitement.

Add in 80 trade stands in the shopping village, a range of bars and restaurants, plus pre-racing entertainment and you get three fabulous days of top-class sporting enjoyment.

Countryside Day

Friday at The Open is Countryside Day with its range of displays and demonstrations covering many equine and other country pursuits.

Equestrian Team GBR will be there this year ahead of London 2012. Team GBR performance manager Yogi Breisner will host a special display called ‘Team GBR Prepares’. Among the riders present will be Pippa Funnel, Ben Maher and Carl Hester.

Britain’s bronze medal-winning European Championship Eventing team, William Fox-Pitt, Mary King, Piggy French and Nicola Wilson will follow a parade of hounds on horseback.

Managing director of Cheltenham Racecourse Edward Gillespie said: “The presence of Equestrian Team GBR on Countryside Race Day will be a huge asset and provides the opportunity to bring together racing and other equestrian sports.”

Countryside Day raises significant sums for both The Countryside Alliance and Equestrian Team GBR.

Out of the six races the feature event will be the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase. It will run over Cheltenham’s unique cross-country course, which hasn’t been used since March.

The Brightwells Bloodstock Sale will take place in the evening.

Paddy Power Gold Cup Day

For many racing fans, this is when the new jump-racing season really gets into top gear. The Paddy Power Gold Cup has been run since 1960 and has been won by some of the sport’s greatest names, from Tom Dreaper to AP McCoy.

Last season’s 50th anniversary race went to 20/1 chance Little Josh, a popular local winner for trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies and his 18-year-old son and jockey, Sam. Long Run, who went on to win the King George at Kempton and the Cheltenham Gold Cup, was third.

Open Sunday

On another six-race day, the Greatwood Hurdle will see the up-and-coming stars of the hurdling world take centre stage, while the Shloer Steeplechase will be an opportunity for the best two-mile chasers around to run for the first time this season.

On all three days, racegoers under the age of 18 are admitted free.

Tickets are available from www.cheltenham.co.uk or by calling 0844 579 300

Equestrian Team GBR is looking for a new major sponsor.

The sponsorship will centre on the 2012 Olympics, but will cover all major events — including the World Equestrian Games and European Championships.

And it will cover all levels of riding nationally, from beginner to professional.

The BEF hopes to attract a single large corporate sponsor, or two companies to share sponsorship.

A spokesperson said: “The BEF Team GBR proposal is built around providing real tangible value for sponsors in terms of branding, awareness, b2b, community, employee and corporate communications opportunities.”

Sponsoring Britain’s high-achieving equestrian team is a golden opportunity for a company, says the British Equestrian Federation.

Team GB brough 19 medals back from the World Equestrian Games and expects to win up to six medals in the Olympics.

For more information, contact Anna Greenway on 02476 698871 or anna.greenway@bef.co.uk

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

Buy a Hiho Team GBR bracelet and you could be in with a chance of winning some exclusive memorabilia from Britain’s fantastic achievements at this year’s World Equestrian Games (WEG).

This summer, jewellery company Hiho has been selling silver and leather “Team GBR bracelets” to raise money to help send Britain’s equestrian teams to WEG, in Kentucky.

Although the World Equestrian Games finished last month, the bracelets are still on sale. And every day for 19 consecutive days starting on 22 November, one lucky person who buys a bracelet online will receive their jewellery in a special box signed by a WEG medal-winning rider.

Team gold and individual silver eventing medallist William Fox-Pitt is one rider to sign a box.

He said: “This is a great idea with Christmas just round the corner, and a nice way to celebrate the team’s successes.”

With 20% of all sales proceeds going to Team GBR, the project has been a great success, says British Equestrian Federation (BEF) spokesman Anna Greenway. Over £7,000 has been raised so far.

Anna explained: “The project with HiHo was so well received [by the public] that we have decided to make it a long term partnership that will provide extra support for the teams.

“Any money raised is used to help the teams train and compete — including the non-Olympic teams who get no government funding.”

She added that new products are planned for the range, and that Somerset-based Hiho is “passionate about helping the sport”.

Bracelet prices start at £12 for a uni-sex leather bracelet, and £40 for a ladies silver bracelet.

• For full terms and conditions, and to place an order, visit www.hihosilver.co.uk

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

Land Rover has been appointed the officer vehicle supplier to Equestrian Team GB.

The three-year agreement includes the supply of 12 Land Rover Discovery 4s for use across all Team GB disciplines and for key staff on the World Class Programme.

It also includes the supply of a further ten Land Rovers to support the British team at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (25 September-12 October).

“We are delighted to welcome Land Rover on board as an official supplier,” said Will Connell, World Class performance director.

“We will be using the cars across all of the British Equestrian teams and they will be an excellent asset as we travel Europe in our quest for success.

“This is an exciting new partnership and we are very much looking forward to a long association with Land Rover.”

Land Rover UK marketing director, Anthony Bradbury added: “Land Rover has a great affinity with the equestrian world. Our vehicles are perfectly designed to suit the day-to-day needs of Team GB.

“We hope that our support will be a valuable asset to the team’s success in Kentucky and for other forthcoming major competitions.”

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

Jewellery company Hiho Silver has raised nearly £5,000 for Equestrian Team GB.

The Somerset-based company has raised the funds over the past four months through sales of a silver bracelet worth £40 and a leather bracelet costing £12.

Both bracelets have been sold at major equestrian events such as Badminton, as well as being sold online and in stores around the country.

And 20% of all proceeds from sales of the range are being donated to help fund and support the Equestrian teams of the future.

“We are very grateful for Hiho Silver’s proactive support of Team GB ahead of the World Equestrian Games and I hope that the public will respond by buying more of these fabulous bracelets,” said Will Connell, World Class performance manager for the British Equestrian Federation.

Andrew Ransford, Hiho’s managing director added: “We’re really proud to be able to help ensure that Equestrian Team GBR gets the best chance to bring home some much-deserved medals.”

For more information visit: www.equestrianteamgbr.co.uk and www.hihosilver.co.uk

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 showjumping performance manager Rob Hoekstra has chosen another experienced team for the third competition in the 2010 Meydan FEI Nations Cup series.

The British team for St Gallen, Switzerland this Friday (4 June) will be as at Rome last week, but with Scott Brash replacing Nick Skelton.

The full squad is as follows:

• John Whitaker from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire with Rebecca Stones’ thirteen year-old bay stallion Peppermill.
• Michael Whitaker and Beatrice Mertens’ GIG Amai II, a ten year-old dark bay gelding.
• Scott Brash will ride Intertoy Z, an eleven year-old black gelding owned by Scott’s father, Stanley Brash.
• Peter Charles will partner Olga White’s eleven year-old bay gelding Murka’s Pom d’Ami.
• Ben Maher will ride Robin Hood W, a twelve year-old bay gelding Ben co-owns with Mike and Emma Phillips of the Quainton Stud.

Following a second place in Rome (28 May) and equal third with Germany at La Baule (14 May), Great Britain is in second place on the series points table.

France currently tops the table with maximum points with the USA in third.

Team GB must finish in the top six in the rankings to avoid relegation to the ‘promotional league’ for a second year.

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 vaulter and European champion Joanne Eccles (pictured) has retained the top women’s title at CVIO** Saumur (2-4 April) for a third time.

The rest of the British team members also performed strongly to take second (South Scotland Select team) and fifth (English Vaulting Squad) places in the team competition.

And due to their good team results Britain entered two teams in the Nations Cup — GBR1 taking first place and GBR2 third.

The Nations Cup team competition is made up of two individual routines and a team freestyle. The scores are added together to make a final mark.

Chef d’equipe Lucy Bell said: “All the members of team GBR1 performed fantastically under pressure in a tense, packed arena, to lead throughout and clinch the top spot. This is the first time GBR has won such a class.

“GBR2 also meant business, clinching third place on the podium, with France managing to hold on to second in between them.”

Joanne Eccles’s sister Hannah finished in fourth in the ladies’ competition, with team mate Lucy Phillips in fifth.

Ross Foreman came fifth in the men’s competition, which was won by French European champion Nicolas Andreani.

And even the Team GBR horses were in the prizes — South Scotland Select team’s ride Bart Simpson won the best team horse prize and the best individual horse title was won by Joanne and Hannah’s WH Bentley.

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Great Britain has won the Longines FEI Nations Cup at the CSIO***** Abu Dhabi, beating Germany and the Netherlands into second and third places respectively.

The team of Ellen Whitaker (Equimax Ocolado), Guy Williams (Torinto Van De Middelstede), Robert Smith (Talan) and Ben Maher (Robin Hood W), led by chef d’equipe Tim Stockdale, finished on a zero score, six penalties ahead of their nearest rivals.

Tim told H&H: “I’m very very proud! They all jumped fantastic — Ellen and Guy set us up beautifully with two double clears, neatly inside the time. Robert’s horse just made a mistake in the first round but came out clear in the second. And Ben rode a fantastic clear.

“They all worked really well as a team. I think we were the best prepared team — we came out a bit earlier than the others so the horses could acclimatise which meant they were nice and fresh for the Nations Cup. The course wasn’t over-big but the riders needed to use some nous to jump it.”

Of the 11 teams who started, seven went through to the second round. Robert Smith was the only rider to fault so became the discard score in the first round. Three clears from Ellen, Guy and Robert in round two meant that the competition was won and Ben Maher was not required to jump for a second time.

The Irish finished in seventh — earning €4,000 for the GOAL for the Haiti Earthquake relief fund.

Nations Cup result

1. Great Britain 0

2. Germany 6

3. Netherlands 9

4. UAE 23

5. Italy 23

6. Egypt 28

7. Ireland 31

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

Would you like to take your horse on two days’ training with Team GBR’s World Class Performance Eventing Squad? Or have a dressage lesson with European Team Silver medal winning rider Maria Eilberg?

If you do you’ve just one day to bid for these and many other fantastic prizes in the Team GBR online auction.

The auction — at http://auction.equestrianteamgbr.co.uk —is raising funds to send the British Equestrian Team to the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky next year.

Bidding has reached just over £1,500 for the unique opportunity to train alongside Britain’s elite eventers and receive training from some of the UK’s top coaches on the flat, over jumps or both.

And the dressage lesson with Maria currently stands at £255 so there’s no time to lose.

Other lots include a day being pampered in the Clarins Studio at Peter Jones in London, including treatments, lunch and products you may want to take away for you and a friend and a bespoke hunting whip.

Check the website to see when these and other items end.

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 7 young British riders who make up Equestrian Team GB are feeling positive as they prepare for the Australia Youth Olympic Festival.

In total over 1,600 athletes from 25 nations — including more than 100 from Britain — will take part in the biennual festival, which was set up by the Australian Olympic Committee as part of the legacy of the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

2009 will be will be the first year that equestrianism has been included in the event, which runs from 14-18 January.

The team travelled to Sydney last Friday (9 January) and were yesterday (13 January) introduced to the horses they will be competing on.

The dressage and show jumping competitions run from Friday (16 January) to Sunday (18 January) so the team only has a couple of days to bond with their new partners.

Usually in international competition riders will bring their own horses, but AYOF’s rules state competitions must ride locally sourced horses.

The team watched the horses with their own riders over the weekend before being matched with them — based on size and weight.

For show jumping Daniel Neilson, Matthew Sampson, Louise Saywell and William Whitaker will be representing Great Britain.

“I just rode my horse and I was happy with him. I didn’t do too much with him as the ground is hard and it’s hot out here. I’ll do a bit more tomorrow,” said 19-year-old William Whitaker yesterday.

“We know a little bit about the competition but I think it’s going to be a pretty even field as we’re all on foreign horses.”

Eighteen-year-old Daniel Nielson added: “It’s always difficult adapting to new horses. They got pretty tired in the heat so it’s hard to tell how fit they are but we’ll learn more tomorrow I’m sure.

“For the team I’ve got high hopes, we’ve got some strong riders in the squad so we should be up there in the medals.”

The dressage team consists of 19-year-olds Emily Cousins, Jessica Dunn and Charlie Hutton.

They, too, are positive about their horses and their chances.

Jessica said: “I’ve had a look at my rivals and I think the Australians will be our main competition. We can only focus on doing our best. We’ve all had a good ride this afternoon and I was pleased with the way my horse went.”

Charlie added: “Equestrian is the only Olympic sport where men and women compete equally, it’s fun being the only male rider on the team. The horse is very nice and I’m lucky to have it. I’ve acclimatised well and got used to the heat already.”

To keep up to date with the action visit www.equestrianteamgbr.co.uk

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

Britain’s Olympic and Paralympic equestrian heroes will take part in a medal parade at Olympia this December.

Medallists from the senior, young rider, junior and pony equestrian teams in all disciplines will take part in a special medal parade at the show on Saturday evening (20 December).

Britain’s equestrian teams have enjoyed huge success across Europe and in Hong Kong. Double bronze Olympic medallist event rider Tina Cook will appear, together with the victorious para equestrian teams and young rider eventing gold medallist Emily Llewellyn.

The parade will take place at 8.15pm after the Osborne Refrigerators Shetland Pony Grand National. It will be choreographed by Team GB’s performance director Will Connell.

Will said: “It’s a great honour to have the opportunity to parade at Olympia, in front of an audience that is traditionally so supportive.

“The whole of our equestrian team should be proud of their achievements and there’s no better way to thank the public for their support.”

Tickets for Olympia start at £23. Visit www.olympiahorseshow.com for more information.

Appearing at Olympia, the London International Horse Show will be:

Olympic eventing team Team bronze and individual bronze

Team manager, Yogi Breisner

• Kristina Cook (Miners Frolic) Individual bronze
• Daisy Dick (Spring Along)
• William Fox-Pitt (Parkmore Ed)
• Sharon Hunt (Tankers Town)
• Mary King (Call Again Cavalier)

Young rider eventing team Team gold, individual gold and bronze

Chef d’equipe, Alex Colquhoun

• Dani Cuomo (Ballin Willow)
• Ben Hobday (Uptons Who) Individual bronze
• Emily Llewellyn (Pardon Me II) Individual gold
• Georgie Spence (Skylight)
• Individual: Emily Galbraith (Timing)
• Individual: Sarah Stretton (Lazy Acres Skip On)

Junior eventing team Team gold, individual gold and silver

Chef d’equipe – Robin Balfour

• Amy Hawley (Helpful Harry)
• Sienna Myson-Davies (Tambourine) Individual gold
• Willa Newton (Neelix)
• Libby Soley (Kachemire Le Beau) Individual silver

Pony eventing team Team silver

Chef d’equipe – Ginnie Keen

• Althea Bleekman (Nightgirl 002)
• Ella McEwen (Catherston Nutsafe)
• Gina Ruck (Ice Cool Bailey)
• Eliza Stoddart (Killacoran Blue)
• Individual: Helen Dunning (Glenayre Bay Surf)

Young rider show jumping team Team bronze

Chef d’equipe – Mike Florence

• Hannah Paul (Sirius)
• Gemma Plumley (Lutina du Charmoie)
• Ryan Prater (Whisker)
• William Whitaker (Sarlino)

Junior show jumping team Team gold

Chef d’equipe – Mike Florence

• Marla Lovett (Emily 46)
• Daniel Neilson (High Tone Z)
• Matthew Sampson (Indy 28)
• Louise Saywell (Cyprianus Z)

Pony show jumping team Team gold and individual gold

Chef d’equipe – Katrina Moore

• Pippa Allen (Spot The Lady)
• James Smith (Mr Nice Guy)
• Emma Stoker (Peron III)
• George Whitaker (The Colour of Money) Individual gold

Children on horses show jumping team Team gold and individual silver

Chef d’equipe – Mike Florence

• Chloe Aston (Cathleen 16)
• Olivia Dales (Arabella 4)
• Lauren Edwards (Mr Bon Ami)
• Graham Gillespie (Ara 12) individual silver

Paralympic para equestrian dressage team Team gold

Grade 1a

Individual gold (Anne Dunham)

Individual silver (Sophie Christiansen)

Individual freestyle gold (Sophie Christiansen)

Individual freestyle silver (Anne Dunham)

Grade 1b

Individual gold (Lee Pearson)

Individual freestyle gold (Lee Pearson)

Individual freestyle silver (Ricky Balshaw)

Grade 2

Individual freestyle silver (Felicity Coulthard)

Grade 3

Individual freestyle silver (Simon Laurens)

• Sophie Christiansen
• Anne Dunham
• Simon Laurens
• Lee Pearson
• Individual: Ricky Balshaw
• Individual: Felicity Coulthard
• Individual: Deborah Criddle

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

Olympic fans can keep up to date with TeamGB with a behind-the-scenes daily online diary written by equestrian team manager Will Connell.

Will’s colourful diary is following the journey of the Olympic and Paralympic equestrian teams throughout this summer’s Games in Hong Kong.

The equestrian team manager wrote his first installment when he arrived in Hong Kong on 24 July. He was one of the first people to arrive at the Olympic village.

Will makes funny and informative reading as he talks all aspects of the “Olympic experience”. He charts the arrival of the horses and their training, the hot and humid weather — as well as his experiments with the local cuisine, including a plate of whelks that looked like “they’d had a dose of radiation”.

Visit: www.equestrianteamgbr.co.uk

Don’t miss H&H’s full report from the Olympic eventing in Hong Kong — on sale Friday 15 August.

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

Toytown, Zara Phillips’s world champion ride, came face-to-face with his wooden doppelganger after Stevenson Bros of Kent immortalised him as a rocking horse in aid of Britain’s Olympic equestrian teams and the Countryside Alliance (CA).

The one-off model of the chestnut gelding may only stand a few hands high, but it has captured his trademark white flecks and wide blaze, and boasts Toytown’s real mane and tail hair and one of his brow bands.

It will be one of 18 exclusive lots to be auctioned at the Cheltenham Countryside Raceday on Friday (16 November).

Model maker Marc Stevenson said: “I love Toytown, he’s such a fantastic horse — who could ask for a better model?”

Another Stevenson rocking horse recently raised £30,000 when auctioned for charity, but Marc expects Toytown to raise even more.

“Both Team GBR and the CA are brilliant causes and the more money we raise, the more gold medals we may win in Hong Kong,” he said.

Members of Team GBR will also be at the event, with prospective members of the squad for the Beijing Olympics — including Zara, Mary King, William Fox-Pitt, Carl Hester, Ellen Whitaker and Anne Dunham — mingling with the crowds.

The 2007 season brought nine team medals for Team GBR, including team gold for British eventers at senior, young rider, junior and pony European level, and team bronze plus young rider and pony gold in show jumping.

Last year the Countryside Raceday raised £200,000, and 25% of funds raised this year will go to Team GBR. For tickets telephone the box office or visit the website. Tel: 01242 226226 or log on to www.cheltenham.co.uk

Advanced bids for the Toytown rocking horse can be made by contacting Stevenson Bros. Tel: 01233 820363

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

Do you think last year’s British World Equestrian Games eventing squad members should retain their places for the 2007 European Championships in Pratoni? Or do you think it’s time for some new faces or other established combinations?

Have your say in the forum >>

You can stay in touch with the latest form of last year’s squad with our regularly updated biographies on the British team section of the H&H advanced eventing league website.

• Zara Phillips
• William Fox-Pitt
• Oliver Townend
• Mary King
• Daisy Dick
• Sharon Hunt

Visit: www.horseandhound.co.uk/eventingleague/britishteam/ for the latest breaking news about the British eventing teams.

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