In his H&H column, Carl Hester shared details of Tristan Tucker’s new concept for introducing young horses to competition. The initiative has horse welfare at its core, aiming to provide young horses with a positive, stress-free first experience in the competition environment. Carl described it as a “radically new test for young horses [in which] the focus is not on paces and pizzazz, but on giving the horse a good introduction to the ring”. He added: “I will be watching how this develops with huge interest.”
Last night’s horse swap class at the Dutch Masters show in ’s-Hertogenbosch was a fascinating showcase of horsemanship and skill from four of the world’s top riders. The contest recreated the format previously used in the individual showjumping final at the World Championships. Each rider jumped round the 1.45/1.50m course on his own horse, before swapping mounts and all jumping each other’s.
Willem Greve and Hadewyn Van’t Ravennest during the horse swap class at the Dutch Masters 2025.
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
Summing up the class, winning rider Willem Greve said: “I think it was unbelievable publicity for our unbelievable sport. We saw horsemanship, friendship, colleagues, people were listening. I think we’ve seen four great horses tonight with four great horsemen.”
Pink horse boots to support cancer awareness charity
Equilibrium Products has launched a new limited edition run of its Tri-Zone All Sport Boots in bright pink to help raise funds for CoppaFeel, a charity dedicated to educating young people on the early detection of breast cancer. Equilibrium is working with equestrian influencer Hannah Francis (@NoHorseHan) to raise awareness of the new boots, and CoppaFeel will receive 10% of the profit from sales of the boots.
Equestrian influencer Hannah Francis (@NoHorseHan) demonstrating the limited edition boots.
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Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.
