I WAS very lucky to be taught to ride by Chris Bartle. Chris was definitely my hero. He is a brilliant, analytical horseman and I really looked up to him. Horses aren’t as complicated as you think they are and so I try to keep things simple. People can get too carried away with the need to have the latest gadget or newest bit, but I’ve never been one for all that.
I always try to use the best. No matter what it is I will always try to make sure it’s the best quality I can afford, whether that’s the farrier, vet, tack or feed. It saves money in the long run. My tailcoat was made in 1929 and my current show boots were given to me as a 21st birthday present; I’m not going to say how long ago that was but I’m just grateful I haven’t put on too much weight since they were gifted.
I don’t go to that many shows during a single season. We pick and choose and like to go out when we think a horse is ready to win. My current top cob has only been to 11 shows in two seasons, and he won at 10 of them.
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Esta historia es de la edición July 16, 2020 de Horse & Hound.
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Gemirande provides 24-carat magic
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'Monaco deserved this victory
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'You couldn't want for more
The Ludlow's peaceful country makes for a day in \"hunting paradise\"
The greatest gift of all
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Winter him well
A horse's winter routine can differ dramatically from his summer structure but what’s the knock-on effect? Ellie Hughes asks vets how to optimise routine management for the season
Neat feet
Excellent hoof care is a year-round concern but the winter months present their own problems. Richard Stephenson MRCVS explains the seasonal challenges afoot and how to stay one step ahead
In bygone days
Modern vets have much scientific knowledge behind them, but what about their forebears? Kieran O’Brien MRCVS opens up the world of Victorian vets in London
'When I joined the Pony Club it was just two boys and 48 girls'
Pepsi Kohler on being delightfully outnumbered by girls in the Pony Club, a leg-up from a royal and the H&H advert that changed his life
