Why ExCel will trump Olympia, and other things the horse world is talking about

1. Excitement building for London International Horse Show

With less than a month to go until the London International Horse Show kicks off at its new home at ExCeL London (16–20 December), William Funnell is looking forward to the event as much as we are. In this week’s column, William extols the virtues of the new venue, for riders and spectators and horses – not least having more space, meaning bigger, better courses, and being able to warm up without crossing the arena in five strides.

Read William’s full comment

2. Quiet from British Equestrian on the new Olympic format

In the same column, William shares a sense of disbelief that Great Britain was one of the few countries who hadn’t submitted feedback to the FEI for a planned review of the new Olympic format. “I understand that comment was instead sent via a European Equestrian Federation questionnaire,” says William. “British Equestrian (BEF) is supposed to be our voice and point of contact when it comes to Olympic matters and everybody within the industry knew the report had to be done – and it was the BEF’s job to do it – so why wasn’t it done?” The FEI general assembly is this week, which H&H will be following.

3. Olympic legend Eric Lamaze taking time out from the sport

Former Olympic champion Eric Lamaze is “taking a sabbatical” from the sport owing to his health, and handing the reins to fellow Canadian showjumper Beth Underhill. Eric has been undergoing treatment for a brain tumour for three years; his last competitive appearance was at Spruce Meadows, Canada, in September, when he and his Rio 2016 individual bronze medal-winning ride Fine Lady 5 were on the winning Nations Cup team. We wish Eric all the best in his recovery.

Read the full story

You may also want to read…

New Olympic format ‘did not serve horses, riders or sport’

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Sarah Jenkins

H&H editor-in-chief

Sarah has more than 20 years experience as an equestrian journalist and editor. She has reported from major championships including the Europeans and the World Equestrian Games. She has co-written books on equestrianism including The Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia of Horses & Ponies. Sarah has ridden since childhood, owned horses and ponies for over 25 years, and worked for and trained with Olympic gold medallist event rider Leslie Law prior to going to university.