I'm not from a horsey background, but I watched the racing on television every weekend with my grandad. I started riding lessons when I was about 10; I was quiet and I didn't have the confidence to do it alone so I went with my cousin, and as soon as I started I loved it.
Leaving school, my mates wanted to be footballers or rugby players but that didn't interest me. I knew I had a genuine love for horses and riding, so the next step was the British Racing School, which was a big shock! I'd never been to a racing yard, it was all new to me, but that's probably for the best as I hadn't picked up any bad habits.
I'd been showjumping, and this was completely different in terms of how the horses felt under me. I couldn't even hold the reins properly. It was like learning to ride again.
I came to Seven Barrows after graduation as I felt a busy environment would be better for me and this is one of the best. I've been here for five years.
Esta historia es de la edición February 29, 2024 de Horse & Hound.
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Esta historia es de la edición February 29, 2024 de Horse & Hound.
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'Sorry, but I wasn't feeling it'
Fresh from the opening meet, Tessa Waugh hasn't quite yet been bitten by the hunting bug. Without the crisp autumnal air and cheek-pinching cold she hoped for, it's a sluggish start
New pair pull off a win
A former European Championships pony is on form with his new rider, while elsewhere former showjumpers and eventers take ribbons
Lording it over the rest
Horses who have returned from injury, a second generation homebred and a long format specialist score on the final weekend of the British season
Smith hits flying form
A \"her way or no way\" mare helps Zoe Smith to an impressive ribbon haul and a rider beats his own boss to the top spot
Jankorado hits the jackpot
Paul Sims is triumphant despite his interrupted jump-off preparation and a borrowed horse comes up trumps
Peanut
From \"dangerous, scary\" to hedge-hopping brilliance, hunting has been the making of this unstable but very lovable equine character
She's a corker
Communication, says long-standing and highly respected Belvoir master Lady Sarah McCorquodale, is the key to all, as Catherine Austen discovers
Access all areas Cavalier Centre
The Cavalier Centre is a fully accessible, state-of-the-art equestrian centre designed to improve lives through horse-based activities. Ellie May Forrester pays a visit
'Use it or lose it'
Not everyone wants to reach for the pipe and slippers at a certain age. Becky Murray speaks to some veteran horse-and-rider combos for their secrets of human and equine longevity
A new way forward
Worm control in horses is vital, but established methods will not remain effective for much longer. Tim Mair FRCVS explains why and how we need to change
