An official retirement ceremony was held ahead of the final showjumping session at Burghley on Sunday (8 September), the event where he has achieved unprecedented success. William borrowed Ros Canter’s ride Izilot DHI to enjoy a last spin in front of Burghley’s packed stands.
“I have many special memories here and I’m incredibly lucky to have ridden so many good horses here. To be doing this here is such an honour and we are all trying not to sob too much,” William told the crowds, going on to pay tribute to his wife, Alice, and long-serving groom Jackie Potts, as well as the others who have supported him through his career.
“I’ve been very fortunate having those horses and the support from the owners, sponsors and the team at home, managed by Jackie.
“Alice has really supported me. I’ve been fairly useless at times, because I’ve been away so much. We’ve got a lot going on at home, four children and quite a busy life.
“She dealt with me with my bang on the head, and I was quite tricky for quite a long time. It’s quite amazing I came back from that at all, so I’m seriously lucky. I feel very special and honoured that Burghley has been so generous in allowing me a last little goodbye.”
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William added that he is really enjoying working with the young horses at home and watching his children enjoy their horses. He has also taken an interest in breeding a few – “always a bad disease to have – I inherited that from my mother!”
Jackie also spoke during the ceremony, reflecting on the fact she “came for a week and stayed for 31 years”.
“It’s been a privilege,” she said. “We’ve had some beautiful horses that he’s been able to ride and I’ve been able to look after.”
“I feel quite emotional watching that,” said William. “I’ve been so lucky to make a career out of my passion.”
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.
