Harvey Smith
Horse & Hound|September 17, 2020
Outspoken and a phenomenal character, the talented Yorkshireman remains one of showjumping’s biggest names, says Jennifer Donald
Jennifer Donald
Harvey Smith

ASK any member of the public to name a showjumper and the first name to roll off the tongue is likely to be Harvey Smith. It is testament to the Yorkshireman’s brilliance in the saddle – as well as his antics out of it – that even 30 years after he left the sport, he remains one of the world’s most recognised equestrians.

For decades, this likeably controversial and straight-talking character held the nation in thrall, ascending the ranks of a traditionally stuffy, upper-class sport to reign in an era when showjumping was prime-time viewing and the leading riders became household names.

Outspoken? Yes. Rebellious? Often. But Harvey will always be remembered for the immense contribution he made to the sport, not only as the ultimate showman but as an Olympian who represented his country with fierce patriotism and whose desire never to be beaten drove him to win more than 50 grands prix, four Hickstead Derby titles, six championship medals and a swathe of prestigious trophies.

So it’s almost incomprehensible that this astute horseman has never had a riding lesson in his life.

“I just learnt through common sense and natural ability I suppose,” says Harvey, who still lives a stone’s throw from where he grew up in West Yorkshire.

His parents Walter and Ethel ran the family construction business and Harvey briefly joined.” the industry, but he developed an early affinity with horses thanks to neighbouring farmer Jack Baker.

“I used to ride the local milk pony, whom he took to shows nearby,” he says. “I went down the farm every spare minute I had.”

هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة September 17, 2020 من Horse & Hound.

ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.

هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة September 17, 2020 من Horse & Hound.

ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.

المزيد من القصص من HORSE & HOUND مشاهدة الكل
'He's a terrier - a very classy terrier'
Horse & Hound

'He's a terrier - a very classy terrier'

Jonbon emulates some legendary chasers as a dual Tingle Creek victor, and trainer Dan Skelton scores a seasonal century

time-read
2 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Rupert
Horse & Hound

Rupert

This beautiful master's horse hates quad bikes and is \"scared of his rug\" but is dearly loved by both Nigel Peel and his son Jamie

time-read
3 mins  |
December 12, 2024
London's landmark moments
Horse & Hound

London's landmark moments

What makes London so special for dressage fans? Oscar Williams delves into its unique history, speaking to experts about their most treasured memories and the show's remarkable evolution in the sport

time-read
4 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Golden oldies take centre stage
Horse & Hound

Golden oldies take centre stage

The finals at London International are among the most regarded championships on the senior showing circuit. Alex Robinson investigates the finals and what's contributed to their popularity

time-read
5 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Winter wrapped up
Horse & Hound

Winter wrapped up

With the long-range weather forecast suggesting a chilly winter ahead, how can equestrians prepare for the challenges of frost, ice and snow? Stephanie Bateman finds out

time-read
5 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Party time
Horse & Hound

Party time

From Whitaker vs Whitaker football matches to a hunting choir roaring carols, top riders know how to let their hair down at Christmastime. Netia Walker unearths the best festive parties

time-read
6 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Rocking their world
Horse & Hound

Rocking their world

Rocking horses were once a common fixture in children's playrooms - or a charming trinket on a Christmas tree. Now, some are getting a new lease of life for grown-up enthusiasts, finds Liz Falkingham

time-read
6 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Winter watering
Horse & Hound

Winter watering

Maintaining a horse's water intake is crucial, but can be tricky in the colder months. Karen Coumbe MRCVS explains why, and how to help

time-read
5 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Shetland Pony Grand National organiser
Horse & Hound

Shetland Pony Grand National organiser

Sebastian Garner on whittling down applicants, playing headmaster and the joy of watching Shetlands at full lick

time-read
3 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Peder Fredricson
Horse & Hound

Peder Fredricson

The Swedish flagbearer and four-time Olympic medallist tells Jennifer Donald about 2024's ups and downs, the key to social licence and silver linings

time-read
8 mins  |
December 12, 2024