I grew up with horses and both my parents rode. I was in the Grafton branch of the Pony Club, competed on teams and went to the Pony Club championships, and was master of the Stowe Beagles while at school. I did some novice eventing and a lot of hunting in my youth, as one could at that age without any other responsibilities in life.
My father and I tried to farm pigs for a few years. Then my parents converted the pig buildings into hunter livery stables, which was great fun.
I went to New Zealand on the Inter-Pacific Pony Club exchange, involving teams from the UK, Japan, Canada, Australia and Hong Kong. That was wonderful. When the month was up, I stayed for five more.
We lived in Warwickshire and my father and I would help Noel Palmer build the course at Wellesbourne Horse Trials. When Noel’s job with the British Horse Society changed, the organisers asked me to build. Noel gave my name to many others he’d worked for, so I went from zero to it being a full-time job.
I met designer Colonel Henry Nicoll, who was on the Burghley committee, when I was building the Pony Club championships course at Stoneleigh. Burghley was looking for someone to help Bill Thomson, so I came for a week in 1980, started building in 1981 and gradually took over.
Denne historien er fra August 31, 2023-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
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Denne historien er fra August 31, 2023-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
'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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Shetland Pony Grand National organiser
Sebastian Garner on whittling down applicants, playing headmaster and the joy of watching Shetlands at full lick
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
