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Nationals success

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Welcome.

British Dressage: www.britishdressage.co.uk e: communications@britishdressage.co.uk t: 02476 698826 Editor: Jane Carley e: janecarley5@gmail.com For the full list of BD Office staff, visit britishdressage.co.uk British Dressage, Meriden Business Park, Copse Drive, Meriden, West Midlands CV5 9RG Main switchboard: 024 7669 8830 Executive: 024 7669 8844 Training & Education: 024 7669 8833 BD Youth/u21 International: 024 7669 8850/024 7669 8834 Membership, Horse Registrations & Results: 024 7669 8832/836 Quest: 024 7669 8850 Sport Operations: 02476 698 837 Judges: 024 7669 8831 Senior International: 024 7669 8835 Para & International: 024 7669 8849 Fixtures: 024 7708 7804 Championships: 024 7669 8846 BD Shop: 024 7669 8830 – press 2 Finance: 024 7669 8838/841 Marketing & Communications: 024 7669 8830 - press 5 Sponsorship & web ads: 01608 676 180 DESIGNED AND PRODUCED BY

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From the editor

any congratulations to all of our new national title holders and indeed, to everyone who competed at the LeMieux National Championships, which we celebrate in this issue. It was a particular thrill that all four of the KBIS Young Horse Champions were British-bred – so exciting for the future of the sport. I have a real soft spot for a good mare, and there was plenty of ‘girl power’ on display. In the KBIS Final this included the four-yearold Supreme Bella who was competing at the show alongside her dam Donna Bella for owner/breeder Fiona Bigwood, also the owner/rider of Atterupgaards Orthilia, on whom she won Olympic team silver. And who can forget Sue Garrard’s brave River Rise Onassis, who has bounced back from a horrific lorry accident on the way back from last year’s championships to win the sevenyear-old title for Sadie Smith. We will also have another fabulous mare joining Donna Bella in the Grand Prix ranks soon, as Jo Cooper’s Magic Dream marked her intentions when winning the Inter I Freestyle to secure the Supreme Championship for Becky Moody. Another graduate of the KBIS classes, Emma Blundell’s MSJ Viva Dannebrog was on the podium with Amy Woodhead in the Inter I, and the future looks similarly bright for this lovely mare. Mares are never slow to express their opinions, but once they form a bond with their rider it becomes a very special combination indeed. And you have the advantage that you can breed from a good mare and have the fun of seeing how her characteristics are passed on to her progeny. At any major championships there is a huge team behind the leading riders, including grooms, stable jockeys and coaches. Did you know that BD offers a wide range of careers and training opportunities and support for anyone who wants to work in the sport? Find out what’s on offer and hear from those who have made their passion a career on P62. In our next issue we look at careers in associated industries. Jane Carley Editor, British Dressage

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Contents.

IN THIS ISSUE

British.Dressage britishdressage british_dressage

Issue 5 2026

FE ATURES 11 LeMieux National Championships Images and quotes from our champions 44 Out and About At the LeMieux Championships 50 Equissage Pulse Para Summer Championships Hartpury winners celebrated

REGUL ARS 3 From the editor 6 News

54 Golden Oldies Feeding the veteran horse

8 Paramatters

60 Ask the Expert Dental issues and their impact on feeding

47 Member benefits 81 Regional Updates News from the regions

62 Careers in dressage Part 1 work with horses

82 BD Action Member updates 85 What’s on BD competitions and events

67 Trailers and towing Good-to-know advice ahead of winter 70 Round the middle Selecting and fitting dressage girths 76 All legs Flattering and functional breeches 90 My Dressage Life Clive Halsall On the cover

Charlotte Dujardin and Ellie McCarthy’s Braveheart II, LeMieux National Champions 2026 Image: Kevin Sparrow Photography

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Natonals success

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

News.

NEWS MORE DRESSAGE AT LIHS

PICTURED Dressage fans were thrilled to see Lottie Fry retain her World Cup Freestyle title at LIHS 2025.

Keep up-to-date with the latest notices, news and views from British Dressage at britishdressage.co.uk

New dressage classes for seven-year-old and nine- to 11-year-old horses have been added to the programme at the London International Horse Show in partnership with British Dressage. The show will host two days of dressage action on Thursday 17 and Friday 18 December. Across these two days, the Show’s programme will include not just the FEI Dressage World Cup™ competition (comprising Grand Prix and Freestyle to Music tests), but the four new classes in the London Arena for emerging equine talent, the Dressage Masterclass, a number of dressage-focused sessions in the Talk Horse Live Zone, and exclusive ticket and hospitality offers for British Dressage members, including Friday morning’s Dressage Breakfast. Designed to showcase the next generation of Grand Prix prospects, the new classes will provide a platform for talented young horses to compete in front of an international audience. Spectators will have the opportunity to witness emerging equine stars perform at a pivotal stage in their careers, offering a fascinating glimpse into the future of toplevel sport. Two sets of new competitions will take place in the London Arena for 2026: the Seven-Year-Old Horse Competition on Thursday and Friday, featuring an invited line-up of combinations followed by a new competition for Grand Prix Horses Of The Future, open to an invited list of nine- to 11-year-old horses. Competitors in the Grand Prix Horses Of The Future class will perform the FEI Intermediate A Test on the Thursday, and the FEI Intermediate B Test on the Friday, judged as separate competitions. Entrants are likely to be the names dominating the dressage scene during the next Olympic cycle. For tickets, visit londonhorseshow.com

LINDA WHETSTONE TROPHY The Linda Whetstone Memorial Trophy was presented to Judy Harvey (right) by BD Chairman Jill Day at the LeMieux National Championships. The trophy is awarded in memory of our late chairman Linda Whetstone in recognition of an outstanding contribution to British dressage. Judy was BD International Director from 2018 to 2026 and acted as chief selector for multiple medalwinning British squads including the Tokyo and Paris Olympics. She has been involved in competitive dressage since 1978 as an international rider, judge and trainer.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

BUY AND SELL WITH LEMIEUX BD National Championships title sponsor LeMieux has introduced a new sustainability initiative to recycle equestrian clothing and horsewear. ReRide is the company’s new peer-to-peer resale platform within the LeMieux Insiders App, designed to bring the LeMieux community together while giving quality products a longer life. ReRide makes it easy for riders to buy and sell preloved LeMieux products with confidence. “By keeping well-made products in use for longer, we’re helping reduce waste, encourage more conscious purchasing and create a marketplace where great kit continues its journey with another rider,” says the company. When selling through ReRide, customers can choose between a cash payout for their sold pre-loved LeMieux item (subject to a 10% processing fee), or a gift card credit for the full sale value, towards their next LeMieux purchase.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

News Para matters.

PARA MAT TERS MESSAGE FROM TR ACY ORMROD, PAR A DIREC TOR A huge congratulations to all riders that competed at the Para Summer Championships at Hartpury. Entries were up over all the sections from last year and it was lovely to see so many new faces. Also, a huge congratulations to the WEG team this year, doing

Great Britian proud and coming home with five medals. Best wishes

IMAGE: ANDREA RODRIGUEZ ART

COACHING WITH CONFIDENCE The para dressage and disability para coach online workshop is a one-day training course that focuses on the specialist nature of working with physically impaired people and the different approaches that may be required to aid their progression and development. This training day is focused on informing you of the differences you may find when coaching disabled riders, not giving you the direct tools to do so. The programme will cover areas such as: • Explore best practice for inclusive coaching to improve confidence. • Create a safe and positive learning environment through exploring a range of coaching styles. • Explore opportunities to effectively engage individuals through the use of appropriate language and terminology.

Tracy Ormrod, Para Director

PARA JUDGE PATHWAY If you are a list 3 or above current BD judge and are interested in becoming a BD para judge, please take a look at the link below for more information. (Scroll down the website page to the ‘how to become a para judge’ section) and contact Natasha Pearce in the office to register your interest, natasha.pearce@ britishdressage.co.uk britishdressage.co.uk/get-involved/judges-and-writers/ becoming-a-judge/

IMAGE: FEI/LEANJO DE KOSTER

PICTURED Mari Durward Akhurst and Di Redfern’s wonderful Athene Lindebjerg, recently retired after an illustrious career which saw her win 14 medals for her country.

PICTURED Sophie Wells and MSJ Gold Standard, individual gold medallists at the FEI World Para Dressage Championships.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

• Learn about practical tools to support inclusive delivery. • Learn about the ten Talk to Me Principles developed by Activity Alliance and how these can be used to drive participation and inclusion of disabled people in equestrian. • Explore creative ideas to support disabled people to access riding opportunities. • Learn about local groups, activities and further training opportunities. • Identify best practice when coaching riders with a disability. The next workshop is being held on Monday 9 November, via zoom, 1pm – 4:30pm. If you wish to book onto this, please do so by scanning the QR code,

CONGRATULATIONS We are proud to announce that the below coaches have recently qualified as para caches! A massive congratulations to them all. • Alex Wyatt • Megan Lloyd • Jacqui Campbell • Abbie Newbury • Shellie Beattie

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

IMAGES BY KEVIN SPARROW PHOTOGRAPHY

LeMieux National Champion 2026

Charlotte Dujardin and Ellie McCarthy’s Brave Heart II (Bordeaux x Ankie) were crowned LeMieux National Champions 2026 after winning both the LeMieux Grand Prix and Kudos Grand Prix Freestyle. This was a third National Championship title win for Charlotte, having won in 2015 with Barolo and with Freestyle in the 2020 LeMieux Grand Prix Championships that were held behind closed doors due to Covid. “It’s always exciting to have another one here doing it,” said Charlotte, reflecting on her third win with a third horse. “I’ve done very few shows with him, and it was his first ever freestyle.” Since that last title, Charlotte has become a mother and she explained: “When I had Isabella, my life changed because then (it) became about my daughter and putting her first. And you don’t just get out of bed now. You have to get up and sort your child and put them first before you do anything. Then, when the second child came along, I was like, ‘wow, this is like multitasking’, but on another level. It is tough. Before, I’d always ride the horses first, but now I don’t, I put the kids first, and I have to make sure that I can then leave them to go off and do what I do. My life has changed dramatically having my kids but I wouldn’t change it for the world.” Fittingly, the trophy was presented by LeMieux ambassador and former head groom for Charlotte’s mentor Carl Hester, Alan Davies.

NATIONAL CHAMPION : Charlotte Dujardin and Ellie McCarthy’s Braveheart II

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Kudos Grand Prix Gold Freestyle

WINNER Charlotte Dujardin and Ellie McCarthy’s Braveheart II

KUDOS GR AND PRIX FREEST YLE GOLD 1. Charlotte Dujardin and Ellie McCarthy’s Braveheart II 2. Fiona Bigwood and her own Donna Bella 3. Gareth Hughes and his own and Georgina Wilkinson’s Mowgli-Olympia MC 4. Alexander Harrison-West and his own Kickback 5. Kimberley Siddorn and Samantha Dyer’s Dutch Class 6. Olivia Oakeley and Caroline Bell’s Full House 7. Ruby Hughes and Fenella Quinn and Abigail Lyle’s Farrell 8. Darren Hicks and his own Tramontana Tiger Feet 9. Tom Goode and Richard Jackson’s Furstenrausch PS 10. Anne-Marie Cowan and her own Woodcroft Royal Charter

79.400% 75.050% 73.950% 72.925% 70.175% 68.900% 67.825% 67.775% 67.350% 66.175%

Left: Charlotte Dujardin delivered a fabulous freestyle on board Braveheart II under the Somerford sunshine to win the class by over four percent and become the 2026 LeMieux National Champions. This was Braveheart II’s first ever freestyle, and riding to Gio’s music from Tokyo 2020, the performance that earned Charlotte a bronze Olympic medal, the pair delivered a complex floorplan that scored 8.5s across the board for degree of difficulty. Speaking of how it felt riding to that music, she said, “I love the music. I love riding to it; Tom Hunt did it for me. We had that Tokyo theme and it has special memories for me.”

“I love the music” CHARLOTTE DUJARDIN

Below: The ever-consistent Alexander Harrison-West and his own Kickback took fourth place on a score of 72.95%.

Above: Fiona Bigwood took the runner-up slot with her own homebred Donna Bella (Don Huan de Hus x Gribaldi) on 75.050%. At just 10 years-old, Donna Bella was Fiona’s mount in the silver medal-winning team at the FEI World Championships this year.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

LeMieux Grand Prix Gold

WINNER Charlotte Dujardin and Ellie McCarthy’s Brave Heart II

Left: Charlotte Dujardin returned to the LeMieux National Championships on Ellie McCarthy’s Brave Heart II, winning the LeMieux Grand Prix Gold Championship with a score of 75.044%. It was a near foot-perfect performance on the 12-year-old gelding, earning a nine from one of the judges for their second canter pirouette, and an 8.5 for their piaffe. Charlotte explained, “I feel like my canter work was definitely my highlight, and the pirouettes. He’s getting more and more confident with me in the arena. When I first had him, I knew there was much more to come from him, but it’s just being patient to find that development and get him strong.” Outside of the arena, Charlotte described Brave Heart as being “like a cheeky pony”, going on to explain that “even when he gets a bit shy in the arena and he goes into himself, he’s still got that cheeky personality, he just wants to please you.” They are pictured with LeMieux founder Robert Lemieux.

Above: Gareth Hughes finished in second place with his own and Georgina Wilkinson’s nine-year-old Mowgli-Olympia MC (Rousseau x Rubin Royal) on 70.457%.

LEMIEUX GR AND PRIX GOLD 1. Charlotte Dujardin and Ellie McCarthy’s Brave Heart II 75.044% 2. Gareth Hughes and his own and Georgina Wilkinson’s Mowgli-Olympia MC 70.457% 3. Fiona Bigwood and her own Donna Bella 70.000% 4. Ruby Hughes and Fenella Quinn and Abigail Lyle’s Farrell 69.587% 5. Alexander Harrison-West and his own Kickback 68.174% 6. Olivia Oakeley and Caroline Bell’s Full House 67.326% 7. Spencer Wilton and Samantha Britton’s Woodcroft Django Mon Ami 66.565% 8. Kimberley Siddorn and Samantha Dyer’s Dutch Class 66.435% 9. Laura Tomlinson and her own and Ursula Bechtolsheimer’s Forest Hill 65.522% 10. Daniel Bremner and his own, Lucy Bremner and Debbie Beausant’s Houston V 64.891%

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Above: Gareth’s 18-yer-old daughter Ruby Hughes made an impressive LeMieux Grand Prix Gold Championship debut on Fenella Quinn and Abigail Lyle’s Farrell, taking fourth place.

Stübben Intermediate II Gold

STÜBBEN INTERMEDIATE II GOLD 1. Michael Eilberg and his own and Nicky Hallam’s MSJ Dante VX 2. Tom Goode and Lady Caroline Rake’s Margot 3. Ruby Hughes and Abi Lyle and Fenella Quinn’s Farrell 4. Lucy Amy and her own Rudy 5. Anders Dahl and his own Ellely’s Focus 6. Emma Jablonski and her own Higgens Van De Uilenhoek 7. Anna Wilson and her own Habana Libre A 8. Matt Frost and Angela Ellis-Dunn’s Atterupgaards Berlucchi 9. Sara Gallop and her own Jovano 10. Davy Harvey and his own Hercules III

72.559% 70.765% 70.441% 69.912% 68.088% 67.912% 67.353% 67.118% 67.000% 66.912%

WINNER Michael Eilberg and his own and Nicky Hallam’s MSJ Dante VX

Above: Tom Goode and Lady Caroline Rake’s lovely chestnut mare Margot were second-place finishers. Tom has been partnered with the 10-year-old Morricone x Totilas mare since she was a four-year-old and the pair made their Grand Prix debut this summer.

Below: Lucy Amy and her own 17-year-old Rudy took fourth place. The pair are a long term partnership, having progressed from U25 classes to senior competition and Grand Prix.

Above: Michael Eilberg and his own and Nicky Hallam’s MSJ Dante VX (Dante Weltino x Quattro B) performed a classy test to win the Stubben Intermediate II Gold Championship with a great score of 72.559%. Having co-owned Dante from a foal, the pair have built a strong partnership; “He has always been such a sensitive horse, he is enormous, but he is a wuss really. Sometimes I just say to him, ‘man up Dante, come on!’” This marks another memorable moment at Nationals for Michael; “It was really nice that he could win this class for me, as this is the one that I hadn’t been able to win at the Nationals.”

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

D&H Intermediate I Gold Freestyle

Below Right: Becky Moody took the win in the Freestyle with a whopping 76.950% aboard Jo Cooper’s Magic Dream (Governor x Electra JB). The nine-year-old mare impressed the judges earning a scoresheet of 7.0s, 7.5s and 8.0s, with one of the judges giving the combination 9.0s for their choreography and interpretation of the music. Magic Dream took home the KBIS Seven-Year-Old Champion title back in 2024, and Becky said: “Every horse takes you on a different journey, and every horse has strengths and weaknesses. She is now very confident with this level, and she is playing around the with Grand Prix movements. She has a real talent for it, but we are really working on developing her confidence doing the piaffe and passage work.” Becky also claimed the D&H Intermediate I Supreme Champion prize, finishing on a final score of 146.744.

“She is now very confident at this level”

WINNER Becky Moody and Jo Cooper’s Magic Dream

BECKY MOODY ON MAGIC DREAM

Below: Gareth Hughes and Flamboyant Dressage Stud’s stallion Morricone III (Milennium x Rubin Royal) finished in second with 74.275.

Left: Sarah Wilkinson and her own Horacia finished eighth.

D&H INTERMEDIATE I FREEST YLE GOLD 1. Becky Moody and Jo Cooper’s Magic Dream 76.950% 2. Gareth Hughes and Flamboyant Dressage Stud’s Morricone III 74.275% 3. Dannie Morgan and his own Fever Tree 73.400% 4. Matt Frost and Keeva Dedicoat’s Lenika 73.250% 5. Sara-Jane Lanning and Nicola Seale’s Hawtins Lirica 73.050% 6. Bryony Goodwin and David and Serena Pincus’ Sheepcote Just Daisy 72.275% 7. Anne-Marie Cowan and her own and Lesley Perry’s Kracka GH 71.700% 8. Sarah Wilkinson and her own Horacia 71.550% 9. Darren Hicks and Susie Leon and Fiona Langdale’s Kinnear 71.400% 10. Davy Harvey and his own Hercules lll 71.275%

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

D&H Intermediate I Gold

WINNER Laura Tomlinson and her own Ostmarks Digal

Left: Laura Tomlinson claimed her second title of the 2026 Championships aboard her own and Ursula Bechtolsheimer’s Ostmarks Digal (Grand Galaxy Win x De Noir). The duo carried on their victorious streak from Thursday’s Fairfax Saddles Prix St Georges Gold, scoring 71.971%. Reflecting on their performance, Laura commented: “He was a little bit more sparkly coming out today having done the mounted prize giving yesterday, which I hadn’t done with him before.” Despite qualifying for the Freestyle, Laura opted out of a third test for him: “We made the decision even before we came here, regardless of how we went, that three tests at this stage is unnecessary for him… I think it’s a little bit greedy, and he’s had a really good time.”

D&H INTERMEDIATE I GOLD 1. Laura Tomlinson and her own Ostmarks Digal 2. Gareth Hughes and Flamboyant Dressage Stud’s Morricone III 3. Amy Woodhead and Emma Blundell’s MSJ Viva Donnebrog 4. Matt Frost and Keeva Dedicoat’s Lenika 5. Dannie Morgan and his own Fever Tree 6. Becky Moody and Jo Cooper’s Magic Dream 7. Kate Cowell and Lady Mary Hope and Joanna Barry’s Hidalgo II 8. Sarah Wilkinson and Sarah Hobson-McVeigh’s Horacia 9. Claire Abel and her own GF Sezuki 10. Nicola Naylor and her own Humberto L

Right: Fresh from winning Grade IV bronze at the FEI World Para Dressage Championships, Nicola Naylor and Humberto L achieved a top ten finish in the D&H Intermediate Gold Championship.

71.971% 70.618% 70.559% 70.118% 69.823% 69.794% 68.971% 68.676% 68.559% 68.470%

Above: Amy Woodhead took third with Emma Blundell’s MSJ Viva Donnebrog (Vitalis x Don Schufro) with 70.559%. The lovely chestnut mare was highly successful in the KBIS Young Horse finals in previous years, winning four-, fiveand seven-year-old titles.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

D&H Intermediate I Silver

D&H INTERMEDIATE I SILVER 1. Michael Whippey and his own Genson Blue 2. Nicole Turner and her own J’Eton Hit LDS 3. Charlotte Smithwhite and her own Luciano 4. Lucy Mills and her own MSL Saltarello Hit 5. Elice Willett and her own Gerento 6. Zoe Rymer and her own JSR Joie De Vivre 7. Rupert Garnsey and Sarah Jepheart’s Feiner Hubert 8. Ella Banham and her own Impulz De B 9. Charlotte Clarke and her own Eto’o 10. Claire Ballantyne and her own Dvorak

WINNER Michael Whippey and his own Genson Blue Above: Nicole Turner finished in a close second place with her own J’Eton Hit LDS, known as Rooney at home.

“He has a heart of gold” MICHAEL WHIPPEY ON GENSON BLUE

Above: Lucy Mills took fourth with MSL Salterello Hit.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

68.235% 68.206% 68.088% 68.029% 67.912% 67.882% 67.294% 66.588% 66.529% 66.294%

Left: Aberdeenshirebased Michael Whippey claimed his first National title aboard his own Genson Blue in the D&H Intermediate I Silver championship scoring 68.235%. “It feels amazing, especially as I’ve achieved it with a horse I have trained myself. We bought him as a four-year-old with no expectations of getting to this level, let alone winning a National title,” he said. “He has a heart of gold and just tries so hard every single time. I would say the highlights are the extended trots, he just turns onto the diagonal and knows what to do, and I just have to say to him ‘hang on a minute, let’s just stay together’” They are pictured with Claire Rowlands of D&H.

Fairfax Saddles Prix St Georges Gold Freestyle

Right: Dannie Morgan and his own Fever Tree (Foundation x Dominica) claimed the Prix St Georges Freestyle Gold Championship title, scoring 71.575%. The music that Dannie chose for this Freestyle was complimented by their highly technical floorplan where the pair danced their way round their tempi changes on a circle. “I try and do a clean test and present him in a nice way, And I think for the most part it was pretty consistent in there.” The Dinosaur-themed music from Equidance has followed this pair all the way through from Novice level, with a few tweaks along the way: “He’s been very successful with this music. I probably should change it, but I just love it.”

WINNER Dannie Morgan and his own Fever Tree

FAIRFA X SADDLES PRIX ST GEORGES FREEST YLE GOLD SUPREME CHAMPION Matt Frost and Keeva Dedicoat’s Lenika

1. Dannie Morgan and his own Fever Tree 71.575% 2. Matt Frost and Keeva Dedicoat’s Lenika 70.500% 3. Gracie Catling and Gaynor Morris’ Fraithwens 70.100% Wytske fan ter Lune 4. Bryony Goodwin and Antonia Brown and 70.000% Catherine Witt’s Krack DE 5. Sara-Jane Lanning and Nicola Seale’s 69.300% Hawtins Lirica 6. Claire Abel and her own GF Sezuki 68.300% 7. Davy Harvey and Judy Peploe’s Benefit 68.025% 8. Lucy Palmer and her own La Vida Loca 67.850% 9. Olivia Oakeley and her own Nulli Secundus II 67.690% 10. Kimberley Alice Siddorn and Lucy 66.925% Johnson’s Dexterity

“I try and do a clean test” DANNIE MORGAN

Left: Matt Frost was crowned the Fairfax Saddles Prix St Georges Supreme Champion aboard Keeva Dedicoat’s 10-year-old mare Lenika (Foreign Affair x Lord Sinclair). This formidable duo topped the leaderboard with a combined score of 141.029, having finished second in the freestyle with 70.500%. They are pictured with Ben Roberts of Fairfax Saddles.

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Fairfax Saddles Prix St Georges Gold and Silver

Right: Laura Tomlinson and her own and Ursula Bechtolsheimer’s Ostmarks Digal went into the lead early in the class and stayed at the top spot with a score of 71.794%. Reflecting on their journey to this point, Laura shared, “I was really pleased with him. He hasn’t competed since Hartpury [Premier League], but I’ve had lots of time over the summer to do plenty of homework with him and consolidate things I wanted to work on, and he feels like he’s built a lot of strength.”

WINNER Laura Tomlinson and her own and Ursula Bechtolsheimer’s Ostmarks Digal

FAIRFA X SADDLES PRIX ST GEORGES GOLD 1. Laura Tomlinson and her own and Ursula Bechtolsheimer’s Ostmarks Digal 2. Matt Frost and Keeva Dedicoat’s Lenika 3. Gareth Hughes and Flamboyant Dressage Stud’s Morricone III 4. Ruby Hughes and Claire Wyatt’s Fire Kracka 5. Bryony Goodwin and Antonia Brown’s Krack DE 6. Amy Woodhead and Emma Blundell’s MSJ Viva Donnebrog 7. Louise Gallavan-Gelder and Karen Gallavan’s Fabergé TF 8. Fiona Bigwood and her own Newton Sylvanite 9. Kate Cowell and her own Samarkand =10.Michael Eilberg and Geri and Ferdi Eilberg’s EDH Nanouk =10.Sara-Jane Lanning and Nicola Seale’s Hawtins Lirica

71.794% 70.529% 70.206% 70.118% 69.530% 69.235% 69.206% 69.059 69.000 68.824 68.824

Fairfax Saddles Prix St Georges Silver Below: Charlotte Smithwhite earned her first National Championship title with her own Luciano, finishing on 69.265%. When speaking about her preparations for the Championships, Charlotte explained that she and ‘Lucci’ have been working towards Grand Prix at home and recently made their Intermediate II debut.

WINNER Charlotte Smithwhite and her own Luciano

FAIRFA X SADDLES PRIX ST GEORGES SILVER 1. Charlotte Smithwhite and her own Luciano 2. Tess Wilson and her own Hyatt 3. Beau Williams and his own King Liberty 4. Alex Ingoe-Connolly and Louise Hetherington’s Seagry Donnadiva 5. Tracey Nelson and her own Charisma DD 6. Elizabeth Richards and Wendy McKay’s Diamantino 7. Darcas Lever and her own Legacy DZL 8. Ella Banham and her own Impulz De B =9. Charlotte Clarke and her own Eto’o =9. Ella Glennon and Debbie Glennon’s Skovsbogaards Lord Franklin

Right: Tess Wilson took the runnerup slot with the Lord Leatherdale sired Hyatt.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

69.265% 68.412% 67.265% 67.059% 67.000% 66.912% 66.735% 66.647% 66.588% 66.588%

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

British Dressage Advanced Medium Gold and Silver

WINNER Dannie Morgan and Kristina Rausing’s Freya VII

Right: Lucy Palmer took the runnerup slot with Martin Price’s 10-year-old mare La Vida Loca (Dante Weltino x Darlington).

BRITISH DRESSAGE ADVANCED MEDIUM GOLD

Above: Dannie Morgan won the British Dressage Advanced Medium Gold Championship with Karen and Kristina Rausing’s Freya VII, scoring 71.639% to secure the top spot. Speaking of his test on the 16.3hh bay mare (Fidertanz x Rosengold), Dannie commented, “The highlights would be that she just did a really solid test. We had no major mistakes and the way of going I think was quite nice. She’s only seven years old and would be one of the younger horses in the class, but she has a super temperament and it’s a bit like she’s read the script, so she does make my job a bit easier.”

1. Dannie Morgan and Kristina Rausing’s Freya VII 2. Lucy Palmer and Martin Price’s La Vida Loca 3. Jayne Turney and Lindsey Roberts’ Vienna WD 4. Olivia Oakeley and her own Nulli Secundus II 5. Nikki Barker and her own and Zoe Kirkpatrick’s Lestingdale VS 6. Jezz Palmer and Katie Oliver-Games’ Bovary JBM 7. Sarah Ingham and her own and Michele Wyatt’s Mowgli S 8. Lucy Bremner and her own, Daniel Bremner and Janet Gough’s Tomasz 9. Sara-Jane Lanning and Nicola Seale’s Charming Duke 10. Bryony Goodwin and Antonia Brown’s Marciano A

British Dressage Advanced Medium Silver Right: Katie Alexandra Scott made a return to the National Championships winner’s podium with Tracey and Wyn Price’s Liverpool KS, three years after the duo’s debut LeMieux Nationals win. Liverpool KS, or Junior as he’s called at home, had recently undergone major surgery and Katie had been unsure whether he would be fully recovered in time to qualify for the Championships. “It was a fun ride to try and just enjoy him and give him a good experience because we didn’t really feel like he was prepared, and he just succeeded all our expectations,” Katie said. Katie talked of how these Championships are extra special to her, as she used to train with the late Stephen Clarke. “I know he wanted to stand in that Pavilion and watch me ride and so I know that he’d just be so happy today. He’s always been the only person I’ve trained with but he introduced me more recently to Charlotte [Dujardin], so Charlotte came and warmed me up today before she did the Grand Prix.”

BRITISH DRESSAGE ADVANCED MEDIUM SILVER 1. Katie Alexandra Scott and her own Liverpool KS 2. Anna Burns and Becky Moody’s San Isidro 3. Joe Roome and his own Acqua Marina Della Caccia 4. John Norcross and Katie Reilly’s Impulz W 5. Alicia Laughton and her own Armada Bathsheba 6. Angharad Harries and Claire Bain’s Nonovanck 7. Stephanie Graves and Wendy McKay’s Donna Danita 8. Ben James and his own Clapton Banks Primadonna 9. Molly Webb and her own Hawtins Siracusa 10. Laura Woodcock and her own Lightning Texel W

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

71.583% 69.722% 68.805% 68.750% 68.750% 68.306% 68.278% 68.194% 67.944% 67.695%

WINNER Katie Alexandra Scott and her own Liverpool KS

71.639% 68.611% 68.444% 68.417% 68.417% 68.361% 68.250% 68.056% 68.056% 67.917%

TopSpec Medium Gold

TOPSPEC MEDIUM GOLD 1. Dannie Morgan and Rose McMillan’s Fürst Lady III 2. Bryony Goodwin and Antonia Brown’s SJL Niko 3. Lara Butler and Anna Fullerton-Batten’s San Serai ZK 4. Katie Bailey and her own Hillgrounds Foxtrot 5. Ryan Todd and his own Merikanto SLF 6. Daniel Sherriff and his own Nothing Compares 2U 7. Jennifer Johnston Harman and her own Nightlife =8. Jessica Dunn and Jennifer Whittaker’s WHS Funtime Frankie =8. Bridget Tate and Rosalind Tate’s Ozymandias 10. Nikki Barker and her own Danoa

72.917% 72.111% 70.667% 70.472% 70.000% 69.944% 69.806% 69.722% 69.722% 69.528%

Below: Dannie Morgan claimed his second title of the week with Rose McMillan’s Fürst Lady III (Fürstenball x Lord Classic), scoring 72.917%. “It was a really competitive class this year,” Dannie explained. “She’s a super mare. I felt like we could have hopefully given it a good shot, you just want to ride as clean a test as you can at a championship, so I was really pleased with the test she did.”

“It was a really competitive class” DANNIE MORGAN

WINNER Dannie Morgan and Rose McMillan’s Fürst Lady III

Right: Lara Butler completed the top-three lineup with Anna FullertonBatten’s San Serai ZK (Secret x Don Marcello) with a score of 70.667%.

Above: Slotting in just behind Dannie, Bryony Goodwin scored 72.111% aboard Sara Lucas’ SJL Niko (Jerveaux x Florencio), despite riding the test in the worst of the weather.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Top Spec Medium Silver

WINNER

Below: Finishing in second place was Hampshire-based Lauren Aston and Free Flo, with a score of 70.427%.

Jack Morris and his own Quality Always Wins MFS

Above: Jack Morris and his own Quality Always Wins MFS (Quantensprung x Krack C) became TopSpec Medium Silver Champions having qualified through a wildcard, winning the class with a score of 70.472%. Jack commented, “I know he is a special horse but after maybe not the best Regional, this is just super to win my first title. He can be quite spooky, but he was really positive and gave a good feeling throughout our test.” Jack trains with Jo Barry monthly, : “She has been amazing. She doesn’t let you get away with anything, she sees everything and is on it. It is really informative and beneficial.” They are pictured with Laura Cooper of Top Spec.

“He gave a good feeling throughout our test” JACK MORRIS ON QUALITY ALWAYS WINS MFS

TOPSPEC MEDIUM SILVER Left: Charlotte Wood took third riding Alfred De Niro, the pair scoring 68.972%%.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

1. Jack Morris and his own Quality Always Wins MFS 2. Lauren Aston and her own Free Flo 3. Charlotte Wood and her own Alfred De Niro 4. Violet Hawkins and Alex Hawkins’ DZL Royal Sunrise 5. Sophie Bass and her own Invisible Touch 6. Jane Littlejohn and her own Not Just Anyone 7. Aimee Gascoigne and her own Linkswood Fandango 8. Ellen Glover and her own Morricone’s Love MFS 9. Freya Percival and her own Happy Vemma 10. Emily Bailey and her own OFS Dragons Fire

70.472% 70.472% 68.972% 68.500% 68.139% 67.944% 67.528% 67.472% 67.417% 67.361%

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

HorseQuest Elementary Gold

Right: Dannie Morgan claimed his fourth title of the WINNER week aboard Sarah Tyler-Evans and Sadie Smith’s Dannie Morgan and River Rise Pizzazz (Valverde x Lord Leatherdale) with Sadie Smith and 73.939%. Sarah Tyler-Evans’ The young gelding was second in the KBIS Young River Rise Pizzazz Horse Finals and claimed the Novice Gold title with co-owner Sadie Smith in 2025: “I’m very lucky that Sadie’s trained the horse so beautifully. So, for me to get on and go and have a little spin round hasn’t been too difficult. He really is a credit to Sadie’s training.” “It was nice to go and do a good job for the horse, and also for my great friend Sadie, who owns him with Sarah Tyler Evans. She’s [Sadie] very busy, and she asked me if I could ride him a bit for her.”

Above: Penny Smith finished in second place with her own Leonid 2 on 73.182%.

HORSEQUEST ELEMENTARY GOLD 1. Dannie Morgan and Sadie Smith and Sarah Tyler-Evans’ River Rise Pizzazz 2. Penny Smith and her own Leonid 2 3. Nikki Barker and her own Danoa 4. Dannie Morgan and his own and Rose McMillan’s Zalando 5. Tom Goode and Debbie Cunningham and Fiona Britten’s Razzila 6. Lily Laughton and Georgia Keegan’s EQP Deidre 7. Amelia Dovey and Hannah Dovey’s Sheepcote Jackson 8. Alice Oppenheimer and Sarah Oppenheimer’s Headmore Forever Ruby 9. Dan Greenwood and Valerie Berman’s For Diamond 10. Lara Butler and Anna Fullerton-Batten’s San Serai ZK

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

73.939% 73.182% 72.333% 71.697% 71.636% 71.485% 71.364% 71.152% 70.940% 70.212%

Above: Nikki Barker completed our podium lineup with her own Danoa on 72.333%.

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BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

291

HorseQuest Elementary Silver

Right: Kathy Staples and her own eight-year-old mare Odaylia VD Watermolen (Daily Diamond x Hidalya) finished in third scoring 69.758%.

HORSEQUEST ELEMENTARY SILVER 1. Amber Flynn and Jennifer Whittaker’s Fortuna BG 2. Isabel White and Claire White’s Quatango 3. Kathy Staples and her own Odaylia VD Watermolen 4. Faye Heppelthwaite and Linda Heppelthwaite’s Kattleya van de Westen 5. Harry Rouine and his own Winsome III 6. Helen Hopewell and her own Ototo ASD 7. Liz Daniels and Liz Somerville’s Splash and Dash 8. India Edwards and her own Poughkeepsie 9. Sofia Mirza and Margaret Lister’s MSL Louis V 10. Jane Littlejohn and her own Not Just Anyone

70.667% 70.212% 69.758% 69.576% 69.242% 69.091% 68.909% 68.697% 68.667% 68.667%

Below: Amber Flynn and Fortuna BG (Fahrenheit (Hann) x Dante Weltino (Old)) won their first national title on their Nationals debut with a great score of 70.667%. Amber is based at Whitehall Stud, with Fortuna BG’s owner Jennifer Whittaker and Jessica Dunn, who trains her and both of whom were on the sidelines in support. She said: “Jennifer bought ‘Cookie’ when she was a foal. I backed her as a four-yearold, and I competed her early on but then Jess pinched her off me for a bit until I stole her back. I hope she is going to stay with me competing her now.” Amber previously won an Area Festival title at last year’s Petplan Summer Area Festival Championships.

WINNER Amber Flynn and Jennifer Whittaker’s Fortuna BG

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

BETTALIFE Novice Gold

Below: Lily Laughton and EQP Deidre (Dreamboy x Danone) won the BettaLife Novice Gold with 73.194%. Lily also finished in joint third place riding Viva Valentine, with another great score of 71.871%. Lily reflected, “It was so special having two horses in the top three, especially the one that came third, he is very inexperienced, so this was a big ask. This is his first year competing and his first championships. Deidre and I have only been together for six months, and I have been getting to know her in a big environment, so to have won is super cool, she is just a star.” They are pictured with Amy Harland of Bettalife.

BET TALIFE NOVICE GOLD 1. Lily Laughton and Georgia Keegan’s EQP Deidre 2. Dylan Deutrom and Zebra Products’ Norma Jean II =3. Lily Laughton and Dr Amanda Crouch’s Viva Valentine =3. Lucy Scudamore and Carl Hester’s Replay V H 5. Amy Schiessl and Gina Schiessl’s Luxe Utopia MFS 6. Lucy Goodman and Calum Whitworth, Ryan Shannon and Yvonne Uprichard’s Paschalis 7. Bryony Goodwin and Antonia Brown’s Fendi X 8. Ami McLean and Anna Bradbury’s Penumbra 9. Jackie Siu and her own D’Oro 10. Tom Goode and Melissa Roos’ Dynamic Prince

73.194% 71.903% 71.871% 71.871% 71.387% 70.613% 70.516% 70.452% 70.355% 70.161%

WINNER Lily Laughton and Georgia Keegan’s EQP Deidre

Above: Dylan Deutrom and Zebra Products’ For Romance- sired Norma Jean II were in second place with a score of 71.903%. Below: Lucy Scudamore and Carl Hester’s Replay VH took joint third place, scoring 71.871%. Lucy recently groomed for Carl at the FEI World Dressage Championships, where he won team silver with Fame.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

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BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

E Q U I N E R OYA LT Y

Photo credit: Jess Photography

Geniaal | Sarah Higgins

SPORT

BETTALIFE Novice Silver

Right: Jack Morris completed the top placings aboard Shirley Robb’s Jaxx-Joker MFS, who was a very close third place on 71.129%.

WINNER Isabel White and her own Sir Quattrohall

Above: Helen Hopewell finished just behind Isabel with 71.516% aboard her own Ototo ASD.

BET TALIFE NOVICE SILVER

Above: Isabel White and Sir Quattrohall were crowned champions in the Bettalife Novice Silver Championship. Sir Quattrohall was bought as a two-year-old, originally destined to event, before Isabel turned to dressage last December after having a fall. She explained: “The last time I was in this arena 18 months ago, I had a fall right where the grandstand is and broke my back, hence the change to dressage. To come back here was such a big thing, so to do well was amazing.” In preparation for the championships, the duo has been training with Amy Woodhead who has taught Isabel from a young age.

1. Isabel White and her own Sir Quattrohall 2. Helen Hopewell and her own Ototo ASD 3. Jack Morris and his own Jaxx-Joker MFS 4. Alexandra Heard and her own Sycamore Stirling 5. India Edwards and her own Poughkeepsie 6. Alice Perry and Martina Kaule’s Thora 7. Alison Luscombe and her own Florence 8. Joanna Loftus and her own Opus-D 9. Anna Lawson and her own Dante’s Duke 10. Jehanne Saaidah-Mcpherson and Katharine Purchase’s Solyst Salvation

71.742% 71.516% 71.129% 70.548% 69.935% 69.742% 69.290% 69.258% 69.032% 69.000%

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Absolute Equestrian Collective Preliminary Gold

Below: It was an incredibly close top three, all within 0.7% of one another. Second in the class was Imogen Swann riding Hannah Exton’s SJL Zebedee, with a great score of 75.467%. The pair were also fifth in the five-year-old final.

ABSOLUTE EQUESTRIAN COLLEC TIVE PRELIMINARY GOLD 1. Jezz Palmer and Martin Price’s Spotify Anmore 75.933% 2. Imogen Swann and Hannah Exton’s SJL Zebedee 75.467% 3. Lily Laughton and Amanda Crouch’s Angelica V 75.267% 4. Amy Schiessl and her own Genesis Santorini 73.133% 5. Greg Sims and Annie Wolley-Dod’s Kilan Double07 72.667% 6. Harriette Williams and Sarah Field’s Newton Just Divine 72.533% 7. Lauren Burrows and Dannie Morgan’s Darling Dotty 72.000% 8. Mark Lawson-Walters and Louise Danton’s Vincento II 71.800% 9. Joe Roome and Suzanne Andrew’s 71.600% Rituals Lightfeet 10. Melissa Chapman and David 71.133% Holden’s TCE Raphael V/D Debbehoeve

Right: Lily Laughton, a member of the bronze medal winning Young Riders’ championship team in 2023, and Amanda Crouch’s Angelica V took third with 75.267%.

WINNER Jezz Palmer and Martin Price’s Spotify Anmore

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Left: Jezz Palmer and Spotify Anmore (Las Vagas x Daily Diamond) won the class with a fabulous score of 75.933%. Jezz said, “The horse is just amazing, four yearsold and the feeling he gives is just unreal.” Reflecting on their journey together so far, Jezz shared, “We bought him in Holland. You could see how talented he was, just super sensitive. The lady who does our backing and breaking had him for six months and to be honest he wouldn’t be where he was today without our team at Anmore. She got him trusting us then I started riding him and he’s very much one of those when he knows you and trusts you, he will give you everything. I feel like I have a really good bond with him. I shouldn’t have favourites – I’ve got too many to have favourites – but he’s definitely the favourite.”

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BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Absolute Equestrian Collective Preliminary Silver

Right: Mary Pearson and Beth Grimwood’s Bella Vista (Belconi x Fiflon) were Absolute Equestrian Collective Preliminary Silver Champions on a score of 71.067%. “She was just really good, she takes it all in her stride”, Mary beamed after her test. “Just going down the centre line she felt really forward and really onside, and felt like she was saying ‘I’ve got you’ and it all flowed from there.” The duo has only been a partnership since February and made their BD debut back in March. Mary and Bella won at the Bogenraith Regionals and brought their good luck down with them from Aberdeen. They are picutred with Claire Hubbard of Absolute Equestrian Collective.

WINNER Mary Pearson and Elizabeth Grimwood’s Bella Vista

Above: Harriet Dixon with Kasia Dixon’s Dark Storm took second with a score of 71.000%.

ABSOLUTE EQUESTRIAN COLLEC TIVE PRELIMINARY SILVER 1. Mary Pearson and Elizabeth Grimwood’s Bella Vista 71.067% 2. Harriet Dixon and Kasia Dixon’s Dark Storm 71.000% 3. Anna Lawson and her own Fleur D’amour 70.400% 4. Jill Stevenson and her own Parthago HBF 69.933% 5. Sarah Farrand and her own O Look at Me 69.733% 6. Pamela Ewell and her own Master Rousseau 69.733% 7. Grace Boulton and Claire Deithrick’s Hillgrounds Ferrero 69.600% 8. Helen Babington Smith and Eliza Ireson’s Sidona FST 69.533% 9. Anne Obrien and her own Eskerik 69.467% 10. Stefanie Mansell and her own St Giles Zauberer 68.600%

Above: Anna Lawson with her own Fleur D’amour placed third on 70.400%.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

KBIS British Dressage Young Horse Championships

or the first time, all four winners of the KBIS Young Dressage Horse finals were British-bred. Four- and seven-year-olds are judged on their age tests alone, while the top three five and six-year-olds were assessed by an invited panel of judges, comprising Sven Rothenberger, Isobel Wessels and ride judge Phoebe Peters.

FIVE-YE AR- OLDS 1. Sarah Millis and her own and Scarlett Denny’s Toddington Reet Petite 2. Rowan Collins and Eduardo Bundyra’s Melody HC 3. Tom Goode and Melissa Roos’ Dynamic Prince

Left and Right: Having finished third in the pre-test the day before, Sarah and Scarlett Denny’s Toddington Reet Petite (Valverde x Lord Leatherdale) who is known as Lola to her friends, impressed the judges to come away victorious. Speaking after the results, guest judge Sven Rothenberger described the young mare as “a wonderful horse who showed us an ability to get more suspension and a beautiful uphill canter…” Sarah said, “She felt really super, she’s never seen anything like this before. But she’s a horse that is so focused with the rider, and that’s really shone through.” Rowan Collins, a pupil of Sarah’s, took second with Eduardo Bundyra’s Melody HC (Morricone x Danciano) and Tom Goode placed third with Melissa Roos’ Dynamic Prince (Dynamic Dream x Foundation). They are pictured with Sven Rothenberger (right) and Toddington Reet Petite is also shown during the ride assessment with Phoebe Peters (left). Right: Lily Laughton and Dr Amanda Crouch’s Viva Valentine (Viva Gold x Ampere) were crowned six-year-old champions. Judge Isobel Wessels described what she loved in the young stallion: “Such activity, the hindleg coming off the ground, his willingness to go forward… it’s a horse that is really with the rider, and the rider can ride in a nice way because the horse wants to work.” Lily said, “This horse feels amazing every day. And he kind of knew that it was a big occasion. He just tried so hard for me, and I couldn’t ask any more of him.” ‘Vinnie’ was bred by owner Dr Amanda Crouch, who explained, “It’s very hard breeding horses. So much has gone into them, and to see them actually out competing and doing well. He’s amazing, and to hear all the lovely comments about his self-carriage… that’s what means the most to me.” Finishing just behind Lily was the winner from the pre-test: Bryony Goodwin and Antonia Brown’s Simply Secret (Secret x Waikiki), and Jezz Palmer finished in third place with Adrienne Ward’s MS Broadway M (Bon Courage x Royal Classic).

WINNER Lily Laughton and Amanda Crouch’s Viva Valentine

SIX-YE AR- OLDS 1. Lily Laughton and Amanda Crouch’s Viva Valentine 2. Bryony Goodwin and Antonia Brown’s Simply Secret 3. Jezz Palmer and Adrienne Ward’s MS Broadway M

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

WINNER Sarah Millis and her own and Scarlett Denny’s Toddington Reet Petite

KBIS British Dressage Young Horse Championships

FOUR-YE AR- OLDS 1. Fiona Bigwood and her own BPS Supreme Bella 2. Jezz Palmer and Martin Price’s Spotify Anmore 3. Jezz Palmer and Martin Price’s Maverick Caledonia Anmore 4. Amy Woodhead and Emma Blundell’s MSJ QT 5. Amy Schiessl and her own Genesis Santorini 6. Melissa Chapman and Helen Townsend’s Week Orchard Gorgeous George 7. Lucy Palmer and Martin Price’s Solist Anmore 8. Lucinda Elliott and Antonia Brown’s SJL Sunshine M 9. Jezz Palmer and Martin Price’s Selena S Anmore 10. Jezz Palmer and Martin Price’s Silore Anmore

Right: Following an unbeaten campaign season across the Four-Year-Old classes, Fiona Bigwood and BPS Supreme Bella (Sechuan x Don Juan de Hus) claimed their crown as KBIS British Dressage Four-Year-Old Champions. BPS Supreme Bella comes from a truly incredible dam line, as the daughter of Fiona’s 2026 FEI World Championships ride, Donna Bella (Don Juan de Hus x Gribaldi), is the daughter of Fiona’s 2016 Rio Olympic ride, Atterupgaards Orthilia. Jezz Palmer claimed both second and third place aboard Spotify Anmore (Las Vegas x Daily Diamond) and Maverick Caledonia Anmore (My Vitality x Floriscount).

81.600% 80.000% 78.000% 77.200% 76.000% 75.800% 74.200% 74.000% 73.600% 73.200%

WINNER Fiona Bigwood and her own BPS Supreme Bella

SE VEN-YE AR- OLDS 1. Sadie Smith and Susan Gerrard’s River Rise Onassis 81.167% 2. Jayne Turney and Lindsey Roberts’ Vienna WD 76.584% 3. Ruth Hole and Louisa Prebble-Hill’s 00 Heaven 74.900% 4. Dannie Morgan and his own and Kristina Rausing’s Freya VII 74.617% 5. Jack Morris and his own Quality Always Wins MFS 73.434% 6. Rowan Collins and Eduardo Bundyra’s Donatus HC 72.050% 7. Lisa Marriott and Peter Belshaw’s Times Orwell 71.534% 8. Tom Goode and Megan Black and Noora Hamad Al Khalifa’s Veto 70.867% 9. Beth Bainbridge and Gwen Blake’s Top Secret VII 68.684% 10. Greg Sims and Annie Wolley Dod’s First Dance T 67.317%

WINNER Sadie Smith and Susan Gerrard’s River Rise Onassis

Left: Sadie Smith took the win in the seven-year-old finals with Sue Garrard’s beautiful grey mare, River Rise Onassis (Glamourdale x Amsterdam). Sadie and ‘Sassy’ finished second in the six-year-old finals last year and came back to take the win by five percent on 81.167%. “It’s the first time for a while I’ve come out of a test and been really happy with how it’s gone. I thought she couldn’t have done any better than that.” Sassy was very sadly involved in an accident last year when she was on the way home from Somerford with her owner, Sue. The horsebox was struck from behind and overturned. “She took a long time to rehab from the accident because she had a deep cut on her fetlock. But it’s just a testament to her temperament; and we’ve taken our time to bring her back and get her stronger. She’s never even looked at going in the lorry, it’s like nothing had happened to her. She’s so good, and she trusts us, and it means the world to us.” They are pictured with Lawrence Gill of KBIS. Jayne Turney finished in second place with Lindsey Roberts’ Vienna WD (Vitalis x Elegante) on a score of 76.584%, and Ruth Hole completed the top three lineup with Louisa Prebble-Hill’s 00 Heaven (Imposantos x Charmeur), who scored 74.900%.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Rothera Bray Under 21

CHILDREN ON HORSES 1. Amelia Dovey and Hannah Dovey’s Sheepcote Jackson 2. Sophia Parry and Morgan Haerr’s Floran 3. Sebastian Houlston and Charlotte Lutener’s Full Fusion BS 4. Isabelle Stuart and Dinah De Wit’s Prince May The First

WINNER Amelia Goodear and Claire Goodear’s Furioso V.H. Enkershof

77.925% 76.175% 74.825% 71.825%

Below: Amelia Dovey and Hannah Dovey’s Sheepcote Jackson (Johnson x Don Primero) took the win in the British Dressage Under 21 Children on Horses Championship with 77.925%. “Jackson felt amazing”, Amelia explained to us. “At home he is normally a bit lazy, and he can be a bit behind the leg in the warmup, but when he goes into the arena he is just amazing.” At the Europeans, Amelia was the highest placed British rider in the individual competition placing fourth and was part of the team that brought home British Dressage’s first ever Children on Horses team medal. “I would also like to say a massive thank you to my trainer, Katie Bailey, for everything she’s done for me this year. I couldn’t have done any of it without her.”

WINNER Amelia Dovey and Hannah Dovey’s Sheepcote Jackson Above: 2026 European Championships team member Amelia Goodear was victorious aboard Claire Goodear’s Furioso V.H. Enkershof with 69.619%. Amelia and the 11-year-old-gelding ‘Fury’ have been partners for many years, and talked to us about the journey that she and the now 11-year-old gelding have been on: “We bought Fury as a fouryear-old and we’ve trained him all the way up with help from my trainer Sonia Baines.”

PONY RIDERS 1. Amelia Goodear and Claire Goodear’s Furioso V.H. Enkershof 2. Ella Fraser and Rebecca Fraser’s Brouwershavens’s Viceroy 3. Lacey Owen-Morgan and Lily Cawley’s Sulaatik’s Vingino 4. Annabella Howe and her own Champignon Sauvage 5. India Adams and Emma Adams’ Reitland’s Don Totilas 6. Sophia Sutton and Sam Sutton’s JunkbrunnansTaj Mahal

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

69.619% 69.429% 67.428% 67.381% 66.952% 66.762%

“JACKSON FELT AMAZING” – Amelia Dovey

Rothera Bray Under 21

WINNER Myles Graham and Daniel Sherriff and Lindsay Roberts’ Fred Astaire WD

YOUNG RIDERS 1. Myles Graham and Daniel Sherriff and Lindsay Roberts’ Fred Astaire WD 71.814% 2. Francesca Cawley and Francesca Cawley’s Dame Blanche 67.990% 3. Mia Smith and Elle Smith’s Dutch Discovery 66.666% 4. Morgan Haerr and her own Grolschstar 65.441% 5. Megan Field and her own Bright Time 63.922%

Left: European Championships team member Myles Graham reflected on winning the Young Rider title: “It’s just amazing. We came here to give Freddie exposure to the wonderful atmosphere at Nationals, and he stepped up in that arena. He gave me the best ride today.” The 18hh gentle giant Fred Astaire WD, known as Freddie at home, is owned by Dan Sherriff and Lyndsay Roberts. Myles commented, “I can’t thank the owners enough, they were an amazing support as per usual and I’m so grateful to be able to ride their boy.”

“I’m really pleased with how it went” ABIGAIL GRAY

Right: Abigail Gray and Jo Cooper’s Jack Diamond (Electron x Diamond) took the win in the Junior Riders scoring 68.889% This duo became a partnership in May, and Abigail has just finished her A-levels. She is now based with Becky and Hannah Moody, and is planning to take a gap year to focus on her riding and gain more experience. When thinking about her aims for next year, Abigail explained that, “He’s quite a big horse, and I’m not really used to riding such a big mover, but we’re getting to know each other, WINNER and I’m really pleased with how it went today. It’s reflected how our Abigail Gray and training has gone over the past couple of months.”

Jo Cooper’s Jack Diamond

JUNIOR RIDERS 1. Abigail Gray and Jo Cooper’s Jack Diamond 68.889% 2. Sofia Games and Katie Oliver-Games’ Bovary JBM 68.283% 3. Sophia Longworth and Ben McClumpha’s Harald 67.576% 4. Ella-Grace Dovey and Hannah Dovey’s Escomond 67.424% 5. Queenie Moule and Louise Moule’s Baroness Bibi 67.374% 6. Lily Cawley and Kate Cawley’s Quimbaya 6 66.515%

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Equissage Pulse Para Gold Championships

GR ADE 1

1. Mari Durward-Akhurst and her own Watermill Cruise 71.667% 2. Elan Williams and Ceris Williams’ Nalique 71.181% 3. Susanna Wade and her own Premier Royal Mint 69.722% 4. Flis Marriott and her own Serafina Hit 68.195% 5. Alisha Robbins and her own Framsham Fella 63.333%

WINNER Mari DurwardAkhurst and her own Watermill Cruise

Left: Mari Durward-Akhurst made her championship debut aboard her own Watermill Cruise (Watermill Swatch x Cruise On), known as Dan at home. Following her silver medal at the World Championships and the subsequent retirement of her Paralympic ride, Mari secured her first National Championships title aboard the ten-year-old gelding. Mari explained that it takes a while to form a new partnership. “It’s taken us a year really to turn him from an Eventer to a proper Para dressage horse. He’s got the right muscles now, and he’s much stronger. He’s a really nice horse to ride, he’s just foot-perfect with me.”

GR ADE IV

1. Laura Scott and her own CEI Summer Days 69.910% 2. Sara Bates and her own Tango VII 69.099% 3. Katie Radzik and her own Korsgårds Tempt-Hit 68.153% 4. Laura Gulliver and Lesley Hughes’ Serupgards Sassicaia 67.252% 5. Sara Bates and Patty Allen’s Solo Hit 2 67.027% 6. Alicia Griffiths and Madelyn Griffiths’ Seagry Danita 62.387%

Right: Laura Scott and CEI Summer Days make it backto-back wins in the Grade IV with a score of 69.910%. Laura rounded off an incredibly strong season with her dancing partner of the last two-and-a-half years, winning in both para and able-bodied competition. “He was really good, he rose to the occasion… he always loves going into a big arena and was really consistent through the whole test,” Laura commented. They are pictured with Lily Wakefield of Equissage.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Below: In the Grade II class Georgia Wilson and Koningin Rava LH, (Lord Leatherdale x Negro) won with a great score of 72.556% and a score sheet that consistently ranged between 7.0 and 8.0, including a clean set of 8.0s from the judges for her serpentine.

WINNER

Georgia Wilson and her own Koningin Rava LH

GR ADE 2

1. Georgia Wilson and her own Koningin Rava LH 72.556% 2. Vicky Earnshaw and Charlotte Arling’s Midline Rioja 65.722% 3. Julie Payne and Cornelia Cook’s Divinity 65.389%

WINNER

Sophie Wells and Emma Blundell’s MSJ Gold Standard

WINNER

Laura Scott and her own CEI Summer Days

Left: Sophie Wells and MSJ Gold Standard (Governor x Furstenball), returning from gold medal success in Aachen, once again showed their amazing partnership in the arena, to take the top spot in the Grade V Para Gold Final, winning with a fab score of 71,353%. Sophie completed a clean test with excellent praise from each of the judges, including 8.0’s for her extended canter, collected walk and volte. Sophie also finished in second place with her own Ontario LC.

GR ADE V

1. Sophie Wells and Emma Blundell’s MSJ Gold Standard 71.535% 2. Sophie Wells and her own Ontario LC 67.983% 3. Liz Mcburney and her own Bangalore C 64.474% 4. Loretta Joynson and her own Tresais Lancelot 63.114% 5. Flossie England and her own Sankro 61.842%

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BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

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IMAGES: KEVIN SPARROW PHOTOGRAPHY

Right: BD’s hardworking stewards. L-R: Rita YoungJones, Katie Amos, Sian Goodwin, Lynne Campbell, Sacha Cutts and Nicky Sleight.

Above: Kim Masson, Anne and Patrick Moody, Jennie Loriston Clarke and Anna Burns enjoy the Nationals reception.

OUT ABOUT At the LeMieux National Championships

Above: Sunday's Masterclass featured Gracie Catling and Jayne Turney demonstrating training with Judy Harvey. Right: LeMieux founder Robert Lemieux addresses the Nationals reception.

It’s not just about the competitive

Below: Comparing medals? Becky Moody and Fiona Bigwood with our European Children On Horses medallists and Mette Dahl, winner of the European Young Riders Freestyle bronze medal.

action at the Nationals, with Masterclasses, parades and socialising to enjoy.

Right: FEI World Para Dressage Championships medallists Jemima Green, Nicola Naylor and Sophie Wells during the parade.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2025

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

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BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Member Benefits.

Your Member Benefits We introduce some of the exclusive benefits – discounts and special offers – available as part of your membership.

LEGAL ADVICE HELPLINE

Our Official Legal Partners Rothera Bray offer up to 30 minutes free legal advice from a fully qualified equine solicitor through their helpline. Rothera Bray also offers additional legal services such as, family law, employment issues, buying or selling property and more! The helpline operates seven days a week, and if you call out of hours, you will receive a call back within 24 hours. To find out more about the services available or use the helpline use the QR code.

ARE YOU SELLING ?

HorseQuest receives over 700,000 monthly visits and 3 million page views, so it’s the best place to get your advert seen. Plus, their friendly and knowledgeable team are on hand to help 7 days a week, so you can always get in touch. BD members also get a discount when placing a classifieds advert! British Dressage members receive a 15% discount on advertising all year round! To claim your discount all you need to do is head to the HorseQuest website using the QR code and use the discount code: BDPW1015.

E XCLUSIVE DISCOUNT WHEN BUYING ONLINE

As worn by team riders Carl Hester and Lottie Fry, KASK has become a brand familiar with riders taking part in affiliated competition from grassroots to Grand Prix. KASK has set the quality standards of the CSD Project with comfort, safety and design in mind. Alongside KASK’s range of riding helmet designs there are also essential accessories from hat bags, cleaning kits, chin strap padding and additional winter padding to keep you warm whilst training in the colder months! British Dressage members will also receive an exclusive 20% discount when purchasing KASK hats direct from their website. To take advantage of this amazing offer, simply use the QR code and enter your email to receive the discount code!

FIND THE RIGHT INSUR ANCE FOR YOUR HORSE

As a part of your membership with British Dressage you get Personal Public Liability and Personal Accident Insurance from our Insurance Partner KBIS. Alongside this there is also the opportunity to receive a 10% discount off Horsebox, Liability and Property insurance. If you are looking to take out a new insurance policy or update your own, make sure to take advantage of your discount. Discount codes cannot be used online, to receive your discount please call 0345 230 2323 and have the discount code BDM10 to hand.

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BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Advertorial.

Dressage for the young at heart Vicky Thompson Winfield: Olympic rider/trainer and winner of 24 National titles.

s she celebrates her 65th birthday this year, Vicky Thompson Winfield demonstrates that dressage is not just a sport for the young but is for riders of all ages who are prepared to put the work into themselves and their horses. “You don’t have to be young to do dressage,” she says. “You can have fun at all levels and it can be very fulfilling.” It takes focus, determination and talent to stay at the top of your game for over 40 years, qualities that Olympian Vicky has demonstrated over and over in her career. She is also passing on her knowledge and skills to a new generation of riders of all levels and ages. Training horses and people is her passion, making her contribution to British dressage such a significant one. Vicky is particularly supportive of those who take up dressage later in life. Wayne Channon started at prelim at the age of 32, progressed to Prix St Georges in four years and went on to represent Great Britain at the World Equestrian Games. Toni Terry, the wife of England footballer John Terry, and a busy mum, started her riding career with Vicky. She competed successfully up through the levels, including Grand Prix (GP). Despite a nervous start, Jill Timms progressed to GP, even though living a long way from Vicky and with a busy family life. The owner of Vicky’s Olympic ride Enfant was in her 50s when she started with Vicky as a riding club prelim rider and progressed to winning a PSG National Championship title. Nathalie Wahlund started with Vicky as a novice rider and with her help gained a place on the bronze medal-winning Swedish young rider team. Dan Watson, well-known international GP rider and reviver of competition at Hickstead, came to her as 1 48

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

a young rider and she still helps him today. Vicky brought successful professional rider Ros Collins from a pony rider up through the ranks to senior level and also helps young professional rider Hayley Pile achieve her goals of bringing young horses up the levels. Currently Vicky is helping Emily Vivian De La Pedrosa. A former medical doctor with four children under the age of 10, Emily has always dreamed of being a competitive dressage rider. She has begun strongly, attributing this success to Vicky’s professionalism and ability to communicate her extensive knowledge. Her first preliminary competition was at Addington earlier this year, followed by scoring 72.5% in her second advanced test at Merrist Wood, riding in her first premier league at Hickstead and then achieving two qualifying scores at PSG. E ARLY DAYS

Looking back, initially Vicky seemed destined for the showjumping ring but a broken back after a fall dampened her enthusiasm, and she became addicted to dressage. After winning the Young Riders National Championship, she met the person who would become the greatest influence in her life – Herr Franz Rochowansky, the former chief rider of the world-famous Spanish Riding school and team trainer for the USA, The

PICTURED Above: Morley Manor, set in 30 acres of land.

Netherlands and Great Britain. For over 20 years their working relationship produced many Grand Prix horses trained according to classical principles. Within six months with Rocky, Vicky had gained a place on the Young Riders team, gaining the highest British score at the European Championships. Enfant came into Vicky’s life as a four-year-old. The ride was shared with the owner, and both had many national title successes with him. At only nineyears-old he and Vicky were selected for the British team at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996 after only six Grand Prix appearances and having been part of the winning Nations Cup team in Aachen. Many other successful Grand Prix horses have followed – most recently Jazz Dancer, Artist, Esquire III and the lovely PRE stallion Mango Jacaro. CL A SSIC AL MENTORS

“There’s never a day I don’t think of Rocky or of my other mentors: Netherlands team rider Bert Rutten, German team trainer Jo Hinneman, and George Wahl and Arthur Kottas, both former Chief Riders of the Spanish Riding School. I’m also lucky I can tap into the expertise of friends today, like List 1 judge Dane

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Rawlins and international judges Peter Storr and Sarah Pidgley.” “All my trainers have worked in the same direction and with the same principles and ideas,” explains Vicky. “They were very serious about the development of the sport. Rocky was a walking encyclopaedia with x-ray vision and immoveable opinions. If you did what he said, it always worked. Back in the day we didn’t have such talented horses, so you develop them with correct training. And a lot of patience.” Ian Winfield, former owner of Oldencraig Equestrian Centre, is not only Vicky’s husband but a life partner who supports her interests and ambitions. Ian developed Oldencraig into one of the top five equestrian centres in the world until its sale in 2019. For the last 15 years, the beautiful Grade II listed, 16h century Morley Manor in the hamlet of Shermanbury, West Sussex has been home. Ian has shaped the Manor into a beautiful equestrian home, with fabulous facilities including 14 stables, solarium, grooms’ accommodation and outdoor manege. When the riding’s done, a swim in the pool, stroll round the massive lake with the pair’s four dogs, or a chat with the parrots in their aviary is a great way to relax. The Manor is now for sale as Ian has completed all the improvements he wants and is keen to move onto the next challenge. Vicky has lost none of her enthusiasm for selecting the right horse for clients through her extensive and trusted network of reliable, reputable sources. “Not everyone can afford a top-class schoolmaster but working up the levels with a suitable young horse can bring many rewards if you have the right guidance. It’s a fun sport and can be very rewarding with the right horse. I enjoy helping people to understand and improve their horses whatever their age. After all, age is just a number!” PICTURED Above Right: Vicky Thompson Winfield riding PRE Stallion Mango Jacaro stalion, winning the European Championships. Right: Vicky represented Great Britain as amember of the Nations Cup team.

If you need help or advice, please contact Vicky on 07774 211640 or Vtthompsonwin@icloud.com.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

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Equissage Pulse Para Summer Championships.

Paras perfect performance GOLD SEMI-FINAL S

IMAGES: JASMINE PUNTER

Right: Georgia Wilson took a commanding win in the Grade 2 Grand Prix Test B, scoring 73.167% aboard her new dancing partner Koningin Rava LH (Lord Leatherdale x Negro). Bred by Georgia’s trainer Nicky Lickley and her husband Rob Lickley, ‘Katie’ and Georgia’s partnership began at the beginning of June.

Left: Sophie Wells began a golden streak which culminated in the Individual Grade V championship at the World Para Dressage Championships with a one-two in the Grade V Gold Grand Prix B. She is shown on winner LJT Egebjerggards Somoa on which she scored 74.065% while Ontario HL followed up the runner up slot with victory in the Grade V Gold Freestyle. Right: Laura Scott continued her great partnership with CEI Summer Days in the Grade IV gold, taking the win Gold with 71.306%.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

A flashback to mid-summer when Hartpury College and University hosted the Equissage Pulse Para Gold Semi Finals and Para Silver and Bronze Summer Championships. Thanks go to the organisers and team at Hartpury for delivering a superbly run event, and congratulations to all riders and connections for their hard work and excellent performances throughout.

Above: Just weeks before winning silver and bronze at the FEI World Para Dressage Championships with Athene Lindebjerg, Mari Durward Akhurst continued to develop her new partnership with Watermill Cruise, taking the Grade 1 Gold Semi-Final on a score of 71.875%.

Equissage Pulse Para Summer Championships.

SILVER CHAMPIONSHIPS Below: Lacey O’Hara took the top two places in the Grade II intermediate test with Blue Diamond and Chileno Azores (pictured). Lacey is studying at Stubbing Court Training in Derbyshire and has achieved her Level 1 in Horse Care.

Left: Para Academy rider Alisha Robbins took home a double victory, winning both the Grade 1 Silver Championships and Freestyle to Music Championships aboard her own Framsham Fella (One Sundance Kid x Caerberllan Duscot). It came off the back of the duo’s hat-trick win at the June Wellington CPEDI2*, where they took a clean sweep in the Intermediate A, B and Freestyle competition. Below: Silver prize giving.

BRONZE CHAMPIONSHIPS Below left: Bronze prize giving. Below right: Harriet Williamson had a standout show competing in the Grade 5 Introductory test and taking a commanding two percent lead to win the class on 72.628% with her own King D II (Fairytale x Metall). Harriet and King have been a partnership for the last three-and-a-half years. Looking forward to the future, they will be looking to continue competing in para dressage alongside stepping up to Advanced Medium.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Equissage Pulse Para Summer Championships.

FREEST YLE TO MUSIC CHAMPIONSHIPS

Above: Isabella Benfield scored a fantastic win aboard her own Lamborghini III (Gunner KS x Andretti), with a near eight percent lead in the Grade 3 Silver Intermediate Freestyle test to finish on 68.333%. “Lambie went really well in the indoor arena in a big atmosphere and concentrated and listened to me during our FSM Silver Championships”, Isabella commented, “His medium trot is my favourite movement to ride because he is so powerful.” The pair also competed in the Gold Semi-Finals, where they finished second on 63.722%.

Right: Loen Groom won the Grade V Freestyle Bronze with Dalito V H Trichelhof on a super score of 70.125% and also took third in the Grade V Intermediate A. The pair are coached by Charlotte Drakeley and Tamsin Addison.

“I was delighted to win the Championships on such a great score” LESLE Y MCNAUGHTON-WELL S

Right: Amy Mayho took the Grade 4 Freestyle with Evie Trinity Lass, the lovely cob mare having come back from injury a couple of years ago.

Left: Warwickshire rider Sara Bates scored 73.250% with Tango VII for victory in the Grade IV Freestyle Gold. The pair also compete in showing classes, having won hunter and supreme championships this year.

Above: List 5 judge Lesley McNaughton-Wells piloted Libertys North Star to achieve a score 70.250% in the Grade 4 Bronze. “I was delighted to win the Championships on such a great score,” Lesley commented. “It’s the same music I use for my able-bodied Novice freestyle but just with a different floorplan. Martha (Libertys North Star) seems to love doing the freestyle tests – she was recently third in Novice Silver FSM at one of the Area Festivals in July. “I also competed at CHAPS Championships last year, where we won the Novice Home Produced Ridden Final. Martha is just 8 years old, and has definitely come on this year under saddle.” The pair also won the Grade 4 Silver Championship.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

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BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Feeding veterans.

Golden Years What do you need to know to feed your veteran horse

appropriately for their stage in life? Emma Penny investigates.

PPID AND FEEDING

One in four older horses could be affected by PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction), commonly known as equine Cushing’s disease. A slow, progressive hormonal disorder affecting the pituitary gland, it can have a big impact on feeding and diet management, says Vanessa. “For many owners it’s about keeping excess weight off. Where poor doers have PPID, some owners are frightened to feed much, however there are plenty of suitable higher calorie feeds. Owners of PPID horses should look for feeds low in sugar and starch and high in fibre and oil.” PPID has a long list of other complications owners should be aware of and manage carefully, she adds.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

eteran horses have a far higher profile these days, with the BD Associated Championships being among the many opportunities on offer to ‘golden oldies’. But while a veteran is usually classified as any horse over 15, like their riders, there are some who age better than others – and that can have an impact on what they’re fed. “It’s a really interesting topic,” says Nicola Tyler, nutrition director of TopSpec. “A horse

PICTURED Above left: Horses can continue working into their golden years, but nutrition needs careful consideration. Above right: Some horses will continue to do well on forage and a balancer.

“...increase nutrients to support muscle function/topline, immunity, respiratory and digestive health...”

which has been a top show jumper, for instance, might be showing signs of age and be a veteran at 14, but there will be some horses who maybe only go hacking twice a week and are only showing signs of age in their mid-20s. “A veteran is really a horse who is starting to show signs of wear and tear, which leads to the symptoms of old age. They might be coming out of their stable with two of three stiff steps, or ‘quidding’ their hay, or maybe holding weight too well, or not so well – there are all sorts of scenarios.” Whatever the age of horse, the usual feed rules apply; feed according to body weight, condition and workload. Vanessa Allen, nutritional content manager from Spillers says: “It depends on the individual. We would always look at body condition first. If the horse is underweight, they will need more feed; if the horse is overweight, we’d want the horse to lose some fat to be in a healthier condition for their workload.

Feeding veterans.

WORMS – L ATES T ADVICE FROM WES TGATE L ABOR ATORIES

Horses over 20 are considered at higher risk of parasite infection under the CANTER Guidelines (Controlling ANTiparasitic resistance in Equines Responsibly), as the natural immune response that helps keep parasites in check can wane with age. Additional systemic health problems such as PPID may also further compromise an older horse’s resilience. Regular monitoring is therefore particularly important. Aim for worm egg counts every 12 weeks and tapeworm testing every six months, watching for changes from your horse’s usual results. Discuss their individual risk factors with your vet or SQP when deciding how to manage encysted small redworm in late autumn/winter, and check that any treatments given have been effective by reduction testing. Monitor body condition, general health and for signs of pinworm too. Unexplained weight loss, diarrhoea or a deterioration in condition warrants veterinary investigation rather than assuming worms are the cause. Good management remains just as important. Keep grazing well poo-picked and avoid overstocking to reduce parasite challenge in the environment without relying on chemicals. This is especially important during periods of warm, dry weather such as those we’ve experienced through this recent summer. These conditions accelerate the larval development phase of the parasites, allowing horses to become more readily infected as they graze. This, combined with burnt off paddocks and low grass growth mean reduced opportunity to rest and rotate grazing. With less forage available, horses crop the grass closer to the soil and dung piles, further increasing infection potential.

“In terms of nutrient requirement, the harder working horse does have a higher requirement for some nutrients – but not all. If a horse was holding their weight well on forage and a balancer then we’d recommend simply ensuring they’re on a higher spec balancer designed to support their workload. It would have increased nutrients to support muscle function/topline, immunity, respiratory and digestive health but virtually the same calories/energy overall. “If a horse was losing weight as their workload goes up, then we’d suggest increasing the energy (calorie) intake. A senior horse in light work may have similar

nutrient requirements to a younger horse in medium work, i.e. slightly higher.” Where mobility is becoming an issue, Nicola advises a stepped approach to nutrition, initially opting for a balancer specifically for older horses which is likely to have higher levels of micronutrients and added glucosamine. “A horse can often be fine on that for a few years, but then when they show signs of becoming stiffer, it’s a good idea to discuss feeding with your vet.” She says it is an option to then revert to feeding a comprehensive balancer and add a specific joint supplement which has glucosamine and MSM in

Inset: If your senior horse is losing weight, consider increasing calories in his feed.

high enough quantities. “This will be good for soft tissue round joints and provides the building block for glucosamine glycans that cartilage makes to protect the ends of bones.” Forage-wise, hay and haylage are both good options where horses can cope. Vanessa says: “It depends on the quality of the forage and the individual horse or pony. Every batch of forage will differ, some haylage will be lower in calories/protein/ sugars than some hay and vice versa. Unless you have the forage analysed you don’t know. If a horse has respiratory issues you might choose haylage, if a horse is prone to laminitis you might try to find a later cut hay and soak it.” But where a veteran has some dental issues, consider other options, advises Nicola. “If you are finding more than 20% of the fibre length in droppings is longer than your small fingernail, then it is worth consulting an equine dental technician > BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Feeding veterans.

PICTURED Left: If laminitis is not a concern, the autumn grass flush that followed recent rain could help your horse gain a few kilos before winter. Below left: Keep an eye on the body condition of older horses.

or vet. The issue is that the fungi and protozoa which break down fibre can only get to the bits which have been chewed to less than 1mm. “We used to say that you could start with hay, then move to haylage, then to chop (chaff). But if a horse can’t chew hay, it won’t be able to chew chop either – that is when it is important to provide pre-ground fibre.” Where older horses are coming off grass and being stabled over winter, managing the transition is

crucial, and must be done gradually, she warns. “Where veterans have misaligned teeth and aren’t chewing fibre perfectly, the balance of fibre-digesting bacteria to potentially damaging pathogenic bacteria can shift towards the ‘bad’ bacteria, producing acid which can kill the fibre-digesting bacteria. This can become a vicious circle.” She says this will be obvious with loose droppings and scalding on the back legs. “Make any changes very steadily so as not to upset the balance.”

In areas where drought has impacted grazing this summer, some seniors who struggle to hold weight in winter and rely on plenty of grass to ‘bounce back’ in summer may not be heading into autumn looking as well as they sometimes do, says Vanessa. “If there’s no laminitis concern then owners might be glad of an autumnal flush to help their horse gain a few kilos before winter. If they have PPID you might want to restrict access to grazing if there are sudden flushes.”

C A S E S TUDY – EDENDAWN WILLIAM WOMBAT

For Danielle Hardwick, feeding 18-year-old Edendawn William Wombat is more about managing his weight than anything else. A partbred Welsh, Danielle has had him for nine years and is currently competing at Grand Prix level. He is currently fed TopSpec Lite balancer, high fibre mash and turbo chop lite alongside its 10:10 joint support supplement. “He had laminitis in 2024, so we changed to the lite feeds”, Daniella says. Feeding is closely monitored, he has his teeth done twice a year and regular chiro sessions too. “He never comes out stiff. My biggest issue is keeping the weight off him, and he definitely doesn’t need more energy,” she says. He has daily grass turnout, is ridden four times a week, including at least once round fields in trot and canter, and jumps occasionally too. PICTURED Edendawn William Wombat and Danielle Hardwick competing in the Grand Prix at Hartpury International in July 2026.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

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BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

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FEEDING VETERANS E A S Y JOINT LIQUID is specially formulated to maintain the function of joint

structures. A broad range of ingredients, all involved in the maintenance and repair of the joint structure. Including antioxidants as well as glucosamine and MSM, supports the production of GAGS, manages oxidative stress within the joint and ensures all functions within the joint have support. This ensures the joints are working to their best, without compromising their continued development. RRP: From £39.60 for 2 litres (30 day supply) | equiformnutrition.co.uk

DENGIE ALFA-BEE T MA SH is a high-fibre soaked feed combining alfalfa with

unmolassed sugar beet to provide an easy-to-chew source of highly digestible fibre. Ideal for veterans, especially those with dental issues, it delivers 10.5MJ/kg digestible energy, comparable to a cool mix or cube, while remaining naturally low in starch at 2% and sugar at 5%. It can also be used as a partial forage replacer.

highly palatable conditioning feed, ideal for veteran horses needing additional support. Rich in essential oils, milk powders and highly digestible fibre, ReadyMash Extra provides slow-release energy while supporting hindgut health. Fully balanced with essential nutrients to help maintain overall health and vitality. Five minute soak. RRP: £19.00 per 20kg rowenbarbary.co.uk

VE TER AN LIGHT A

RRP: From £17.45 for 20kg | dengie.com

BSC-SE ABUCK THORN A healthy digestive biome is the foundation of good health,

supporting digestion, nutrient absorption and immunity. BSC-SeaBuckthorn nourishes the delicate tissues of the stomach and intestines and helps maintain a healthy bacterial environment, complementing a good base diet. Rich in anti-oxidants, prebiotics and Omega oils -3, -6, -7 and -9, this highly palatable liquid supplement provides a boost for older horses. RRP: £72 for 5ltr (56 days maintenance) | nupafeed.co.uk

VE TER AN VITALIT Y A medium calorie feed for older horses that need help maintaining weight. A naturally tasty feed ideal for fussier feeders. Quick soaking mash feed helps to ensure hydration in older horses. A non-GM, molasses and whole cereal grain-free feed that uses high-quality ingredients.

RRP: From £15.10 | allenandpage.com

C AVALOR ARTI MOTION provides optimum

RE ADYMA SH E X TR A A

SPILLERS SUPPLE & SENIOR BAL ANCER is formulated for seniors who

low calorie quick soaking fibrebased feed suitable for horses and ponies prone to laminitis. Natural flavourings make a tasty feed that even the fussiest of feeders enjoy. Containing high-quality protein for helping maintain muscle in the older horse still in work. Balanced with vitamins and minerals allows for easy, cost-effective feeding without additional supplementation.

support to maintain healthy joints and tendons. It contains nutrients such as collagen, MSM, glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate, known for their beneficial effect on joints. Arti Motion maintains strong bones and joint flexibility in horses during the growth phase, horses that have just started working, older horses and to provide support for sport horses.

RRP: From £15.70 allenandpage.com maintain weight on forage alone but still deserve premium care. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and quality protein, it supports topline and muscle function. Every serving delivers glucosamine, MSM, and omega-3s for joint support, pre- and probiotics for healthy digestion, plus biotin for strong hooves, and vitamins C and E for robust immunity. Help keep your veteran thriving without the unwanted calories!

RRP: 2kg pail RRP £108.50 | zebraproducts.co.uk

RRP: £38.65 for 15kg | Spillers-feeds.com

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Product Watch Advertorial.

DENGIE HI-FI SENIOR is a soft, highly digestible fibre feed designed for veteran

horses and ponies, especially those who struggle to chew long-stem forage. Made from a straw-free blend of soft chopped grass and alfalfa, it can be added to the bucket feed or fed as a partial or total forage replacer, providing quality protein to help support condition and topline. Available in a great-value 20kg bale, Hi-Fi Senior is an easy-to-chew option for horses of all ages, particularly those with poor teeth. RRP: From £19.39 for 20kg | dengie.com

BE T TALIFE PHARMAQUIN JOINT COMPLE TE HA This high-specification joint supplement from Bettalife uses the highest-grade active ingredients to support joint health and mobility. Containing a 10:10:4 ratio of glucosamine, MSM and chondroitin, alongside hyaluronic acid with no additives or bulking agents, PharmaQuin supports maximum joint function and comfort. Available in a variety of sizes, the 1kg tub supports a 500kg horse for 100 days on the maintenance serving.

EK YFLE X TENDON E VO The horse’s tendons and ligaments are made up of delicate bundles of fibres that withstand considerable tension. Different situations require tailored support, from intense training to recovery following a tendon injury. Ekyflex Tendon EVO provides triple support for tendon and ligament collagen fibres, combining Tendogen I, Boswellia serrata and Vitamin D3.

RRP: £87.30 | audevard.com/gb RRP: £72.50 for 1kg (100 day supply for 500kg horse on maintenance feeding rate) | bettalife.co.uk NAF IN THE PINK SENIOR

MOLLICHAFF VE TER AN As horses get older, maintaining fibre intake may

become more challenging. Mollichaff Veteran is a highly palatable, fortified chaff developed for older horses and ponies that need a little more from their feed. It combines quality oat straw, dried grass and alfalfa, with a soft, short chop ideal for horses that struggle to chew long forage. High oil levels provide condition, shine and slow-release energy, while added vitamins and minerals help support a balanced diet. RRP: £11.29 for 12.5kg | horsehage.co.uk

NAF SUPERFLE X SENIOR is specifically formulated to support the joints of

older horses and ponies, helping maintain mobility, flexibility and comfort as they age. The senior-specific formula provides key joint nutrients, including glucosamine, chondroitin and hyaluronic acid, to support cartilage, connective tissue and healthy joint function. It also contains antioxidants, omega fatty acids and additional nutritional support for ageing joints, helping older horses stay active, comfortable and moving freely for longer. RRP: 660g: £37.99 for 600g/£105.00 for 1.98kg | nafequine.com

is ideal for older horses and ponies that need support to maintain condition, overall health, gut function and mobility. It provides beneficial levels of vitamins, minerals and micronutrients targeted at ageing individuals, with added gut support to help maximise nutrient uptake from the daily ration. The senior-specific formula also includes joint nutrients to provide mobility support. RRP: from £29.99 for 900g | nafequine.com

TOPSPEC SENIOR LITE FEED BAL ANCER is

D&H ’ S SIX TEEN PLUS MIX is a trusted conditioning

BAILE YS SENIOR SOF T & LITE is a reduced calorie high

designed for elderly horses that do not need extra condition. It combines the benefits of a non-conditioning feed balancer tailored to the needs of elderly horses, with a joint supplement. TopSpec Senior Lite Feed Balancer includes the scientifically recommended rate of glucosamine in a daily quantity of feed to support healthy joints. This rate is 10 grams of glucosamine/500kg horse/day.

mix specially formulated to support veteran horse health and is a long-standing feed room favourite! Ideal for those who are in work but require a little extra support throughout their senior years. Sixteen Plus Mix provides quality protein to support muscle mass, digestive support, immune support, joint support and elevated sugar and starch levels to support energy and workload.

fibre blend which is low in starch and sugar so suitable for those with PPID (Cushing’s) and/or prone to laminitis. Designed to be fed dry or soaked to a tasty mash, it’s proven to be highly palatable, even when medicines have been added, and contains pre-, pro- and postbiotics to support the hindgut microbiome. It also contains UK-grown whole nettle, rich in antioxidants to support immunity and joint health.

RRP: £39.95 for 15kg | topspec.com

RRP: £20.88 for 20kg dodsonandhorrell.com

RRP: £18.50 for 20kg | baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Ask the expert.

Long in the tooth Dental health can be one of the greatest challenges to keeping a veteran horse in good condition. D&H’s Louise Scott discusses some of the issues and how adapting diets can help.

s horses get older, their teeth are subject to wear, diastemas (gaps between teeth) and periodontal disease. “Studies suggest that 60-80% of horses over the age of 20 could have periodontal disease,” explains Louise Scott, Senior Nutritionist for D&H. “They may also suffer from Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis (EOTRH) where the tooth root is reabsorbed and hard tissue develops around it. This affects

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

PICTURED Deterioration in horses’ teeth as they age can require a rethink on their diet.

the incisors and canines – it’s particularly common in thoroughbreds – and makes it difficult for the horse to graze or eat long fibres.” Louise stresses that if your horse has loose, painful teeth or starts to go off his or her feed, it’s essential to consult a qualified equine dental technician or vet. “Make sure you schedule at least annual check-ups for older horses, and if they have diastemas, every six months.” Signs of tooth disorders include licking, chewing or tongue movements when not eating, or quidding (dropping feed). “There can also be behavioural signs,” adds Louise, “such as contact issues or head shaking. The horse may have bad breath or start to lose weight, and you may

Ask the expert.

see long pieces of fibre in the droppings which the horse has struggled to chew.” Once the equine dentist has checked and carried out any treatment needed, consider adjustments to the horse’s diet. “It depends how severe the condition is,” explains Louise. “Some horses are still able to graze and turnout is ideal for providing essential fibre, but if metabolic conditions (such as EMS or PPID) are also present or grass quality is poor, you may need to look at a partial forage replacement diet.” Horses with diastemas will find long fibres difficult to chew and may need a soft mash-type feed, while those with EOTRH struggle with harder feeds. When adjusting the diet for dental challenges, the first rule is to ensure that the horse can still consume 1.5-2% of its bodyweight as fibre on a daily basis, Louise explains. “So for a 500kg horse, this represents around 8kg of dried fibre. Where hay is not suitable, it could be met with high fibre nuts, sugar beet pulp or chaff. “It’s a good idea to work with your vet or nutritionist to calculate how to put a diet together for a horse that is unable to eat hay or haylage.” A key property of forage is in providing diverse fibre to encourage the hindgut microbiome (micro-organisms in the gut which aid digestion) to function correctly, Louise points out. “The microbiome is also connected to immune functions, helping the horse stay healthy for longer. A horse’s regular diet contains multiple fibre sources; even grass will have multiple species and this is important for the older horse’s digestive system, which will gradually become less efficient. So aim to make a partial forage replacement diet equally diverse.” This could be achieved with one third high fibre cubes, a third chaff such as a softer, grass chaff and a third sugar beet pulp, she suggests. “It’s good to continue to include chaff where possible as it encourages chewing and slows down the intake, but a grass nut is another option.” Switching to a pelleted or fibre feed designed for older horses is a good move, says Louise.

“Their digestive systems are less efficient so in colder weather they may need more calories to maintain or add condition and this can be provided by a high fibre and oil mash for horses that can’t chew fibre feeds or forage. “Quality protein is an important nutrient, especially for older horses that are still in work, she explains. “As the workload slows down or horses are less active they can lose muscle so they need amino acids such as lysine to support muscle maintenance. The first signs are a drop in topline which then makes the belly look more rounded. This can be mistaken for the horse being overweight.” Palatability is another challenge when feeding older horses. “Aim for no more than 2kg (a generous Stubbs scoop) per feed to avoid overloading the horse and putting him off his feed. Ideally feeds should be split into at least two meals per day but if feeding a forage replacement it may need to be split over 3-4 feeds a day to keep meal sizes below 2kg. If this is difficult you could give your horse a small feed when you arrive at the yard and another as you leave.” Mint, garlic and even cinnamon can help tempt a fussy eater and it is wise to avoid sudden changes to the diet, particularly for gut health. Louise suggests tapering the old diet off and introducing the new one over 10 days; loose droppings can be the result of a rapid change in the diet.

PICTURED Soaked feeds containing high fibre cubes, softer chaffs and sugar beet pulp can be a good option for horses unable to eat forage.

SOAKING FEEDS

Louise comments that soaked feeds can be very useful for horses with dental issues. “Many of the fibre feeds that are sold as nuts are suitable for soaking – check the bag on products that you are already feeding. It makes them softer to eat and avoids dry feed getting caught in diastemas. However, avoid prolonged soaking – 10 minutes or so is fine for most.” She points out that soaking overnight can lead to the feed going rancid as bacteria build up in warm weather or freezing in the winter. “Also consider how you will feed soaked products. Feed only what can be consumed in a couple of hours and consider providing the ration in multiple small feeds if possible.” Where hay is still being fed soaking can make it softer and easier to chew (haylage does not need soaking). Again, avoid soaking for too long – Louise emphasises that 30 mins – one hour is plenty to reduce sugars and damp down any dust or spores.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Careers.

Finding your niche

A career in dressage can be a vocation or a fulfilment of a dream after pursuing other avenues. Jane Carley takes a look at some of the opportunities, starting in this issue with jobs directly with horses.

orking as a groom can entail long hours and lots of manual work in all weathers but it can be an incredibly rewarding career. For many it is just part of their role which might also include opportunities

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

to train with a top rider and compete their clients’ horses. Developing a career directly caring for and riding dressage horses or managing a yard can be exciting and fulfilling but requires an honest understanding of expectations on both sides. Two organisations advocate for grooms and employers.

PICTURED Caring for dressage horses can be a vocation or the fulfilment of a dream.

The British Grooms Association (BGA) is the professional association for people that work with horses. It offers a range of services and benefits, from employment support, career development and a community to insurance and ‘toolkits’ for freelancers to create client agreements. Sister organisation the Equestrian Employers Association (EEA) provides information and advice for employers with tools ranging from a ‘contract creator’ and help with interviews to guidance on responsibilities as an employer. For most people starting a job with horses, the terms of their employment are the last thing on their mind. But Lucy Katan MBE, Chief Executive of the British Grooms Association stresses that having a contract is essential for any employee, whether they are part- or fulltime or an apprentice. “A written contract of employment is mandatory in law, but its mind boggling how many grooms don’t know this. ,” she says. “After the verbal contract in the form of a job offer, the written contract must be completed before or on the first day of work.” This will include the terms of employment, and is a legal requirement for all employers. A cost-effective way of doing this is to use the Contract Creator tool from the EEA, Lucy points out. “If you are not offered a contract before you start it should be an immediate red flag,” she says. “We find that while some people in full-time employment will have a contract, it’s less common in parttime jobs. But in every other industry it’s standard – you wouldn’t go to work in

Careers.

McDonald’s without a contract.’ Another point to get clear before starting work is the employment status. “You are either employed or a selfemployed freelancer – if you are a freelancer you are your own boss, running your own business,” she explains. “You decide when and where you work and how many hours. You must also have more than one client to be a self-employed freelancer.” In many cases, grooms are in ‘forced

self-employment’, paying no PAYE or national insurance, which means they may have many years of contributions missing when it comes to claiming a pension. “If you are employed, make sure you get a payslip which is emailed to you and don’t send the client an invoice. Download the payslip and keep it in a file. Never use WhatsApp for employment correspondence.” Employers are also required to pay

PICTURED Beth Revill, ‘supergroom’ to Sophie Wells, enjoying the celebrations at the World Para Dressage Championships. Credit: Andrea Rodriguez Art.

GROOM/RIDER

Lauren Burrows, 23, first met Dannie Morgan as a teenager when they had horses on the same livery yard; now she has the role of competition groom/rider for him, as well as producing her own horses. “I got a horse on loan when I was 15 which sparked my interest in dressage, having enjoyed eventing previously,” she explains. “I felt that, while I’d love to work with horses, it was unrealistic and planned to get a job to support my hobby. But while on a gap year ahead of going to university to study physiotherapy, I did some freelance grooming.” At the same time, Dannie was looking for a groom to help with his expanding team of horses, and Lauren took up the role. “Initially, I worked for him in the morning and freelanced or did my own horse in the afternoon,” she explains. “But as the numbers of horses grew, I got more opportunities to ride, and two years ago moved to a rider/groom role.” Lauren works closely with Dannie – in the mornings she warms up horses for him or rides alongside him. In the afternoon, while he is away coaching other riders, she takes care of vet, farrier or physio appointments. “I then communicate with Dannie over any action to be taken.” Grooming at international shows is an exciting part of the job, she says. “I went to Verden and Ermelo for the young horse championships which was a great experience; as Dannie’s horses progress, I’m hoping to do more in the future.” Lauren admits that she was only expecting to work with Dannie for a year or so, but says: “We get on so PICTURED well, and I get lots of help with my own horse.” Lauren with High Hoes Esquisse. The horse in question is High Hoes Esquisse (Kizzy) on which Lauren won the Elementary Freestyle Silver Championship at the 2026 NAF Winter Championships, following on from victory in the Bettalife Novice Silver Championship at the 2025 Nationals. “She’s the first horse that I’ve produced from scratch, having bought her as a three-year-old.” In terms of her future career goals, Lauren says that she hopes to keep moving up the levels and take on some more rides. Her advice to aspiring riders is that working with a top level rider offers great opportunities to learn and progress, but adds: “Don’t expect to spend all your time going to shows – that’s a bonus. You also have to accept that it’s not going to be a nine to five job and you are not going to become a millionaire. Be prepared to work hard and muck in and do whatever is needed.”

statutory sick pay, the detail of which has changed this year with the lower earnings limit and waiting period (from the date sickness started) removed. Any job with horses involves long hours and this can be even longer on show days, but employees should be paid appropriately, stresses Lucy. “If you are being paid the National Minimum Wage, this should be paid for every hour worked. Where time off in lieu of working on a day off or outside your normal working hours is concerned, it must be documented and it’s up to the employer to manage this.” Training and lessons are a big attraction for many aiming to work with horses, but if this is on the employers’ horses it should be regarded as part of on-the-job training like any other. It’s ‘perks’ such as lessons on your own horse and livery that need to be accounted for separately. “Employers need to separate this out of the working day and charge for it separately – it should not be deducted from wages,” says Lucy. She suggests that simple devotion to the horses’ and their needs and the potential rewards – such as the chance to go to a major show – mean that grooms put up with more than they should. “But it’s a type of undue influence. We promote the concept of ‘Good Employment’ and offer a code of conduct for employers. If a business can’t afford to pay and treat a groom properly, it should not employ one.” On the positive side, Lucy points out that experience gained with horses not only prepares grooms for advancement within the industry but also for other careers, having developed skills with logistics, managing feedstock and communicating with people etc. “But most of those who work with horses do it because they really love them and enjoy riding. So then you need to look at what opportunities there are to develop your equestrian career. It may be that there is little chance to advance on your current yard so don’t be afraid to move on and look for better opportunities.”

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Careers.

APPRENTICESHIPS

In partnership with training providers Sport Structures, Scottish Racing Academy and Coleg Cambria, British Dressage offers a range of apprenticeships aimed at anyone working within the equine industry who is looking to develop new skills and gain a qualification in the area of business they currently work in. Apprenticeships are from Level 2 to Level 6, giving options for everyone from those at the start of their career to more experienced individuals who are looking to move into a managerial role. An apprenticeship offers hands-on experience, a salary and the chance to train while at work. At least 20% of the time is spent in off-the-job training such as using BD Learning Hub resources, attending added value activities or other opportunities that support learning. Apprentices need to have a contract of employment which includes a job description and title or be in the process of securing a position. Vacancies are advertised on the BD apprenticeships jobs board; BD also offers apprenticeship information for employers, which will give them all the information they need on how they can get involved. British Dressage Apprenticeships are nationally recognised and are a blend of practical and theoretical learning with 64

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

the chance to take advantage of existing BD qualifications. Apprentices also have

APPRENTICESHIPS

Grace Perks, 18, is a BD apprentice at the East Sussex yard of Kirsty Mepham, and is currently working towards her level 3. “I’ve worked for Kirsty for two years, having trained with her previously. I was also lucky enough to ride her horse Florenzo in Juniors and I’m now in Young Riders.” Grace says that she always wanted to work with horses and having had a summer job with Kirsty was preparing to take up a place at Hartpury College. “However, I decided that I wanted to stay in a yard environment and Kirsty took me on as an apprentice.” In addition to daily practical skills training at Kirsty’s yard, Grace is able to take advantage of BD Learning Hub activities such as zoom training and instructional videos. “I’ve found the welfare and management training especially useful. We get regular emails explaining what’s available and I

the opportunity to undertake added value activities throughout the year, such

can often do zoom calls in the evening or at lunchtime, so they fit round work.” For her level 2, Grace also benefited from regular visits from a coach assessor, to help brush up on her weaker areas, which she says meant she was less nervous when it came to the final assessment. “I also had a run through on zoom just before the assessment.” Grace was awarded a distinction for her level 2, and her immediate ambitions focus on achieving the same when it comes to the level 3 next year. “My eventual aim is a job as a rider, although it’s hard to know if I will be good enough. “Alternatively I’d like to be an international groom. Kirsty really inspires me and going to competitions helps me see what is possible. I’m also lucky enough to have weekly lessons with Kirsty’s coach, Dane Rawlins.” PICTURED Grace and Florenzo.

Careers.

as attending home CDIs and national training events. COACHING

Many riders will coach others as part of their business, but coaching can also offer a rewarding career on its own. Training as a coach and taking professional qualifications offers the opportunity to continually improve skills and knowledge and to offer clients recognised standards. British Dressage offers a range of coaching qualifications both for new coaches starting their careers and for established coaches looking to develop their coaching skills further.

BD Coaching Certificates are available at Level 2 (up to elementary) and Level 3 (advanced medium) while the British Equestrian Level 4 certificate is designed for high-performing coaches with considerable experience and involves an advanced syllabus of professional academic education. This qualification offers a Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Practice in Sport Coaching. The BD programme has been extensively revised this year. Key developments include the embedding of ethical training principles, equine learning theory, broader horse management knowledge and a renewed emphasis on good horsemanship throughout coach education programmes.

COACHING

Amy Blount (pictured) became interested in coaching at an early age, and after A levels, took up an apprenticeship with Sue Charters BHSI where she took her NVQ II and III, BHS Stage III and Pony Club A test. “I realised that I loved coaching more than anything and, although I then went to Catherston Stud as a rider, I ended up teaching the liveries,” she explains. An injury from a kick stopped her riding for a while and she was one of the first to take the UKCC Level 3 coaching certificate. “I took it alongside Jennie Loriston Clarke and Ann Dicker, which was a bit nerve wracking!” More recently, Amy has completed Level 4, which is a graduate level qualification, and she says that, while she is not academic, she ‘loved the opportunity to delve into other sports’. During COVID, Amy launched an online coaching service, and she now offers a membership programme which allows her to take a more holistic approach, including mindset coaching. CPD is a key part of being a coach, and Amy comments that while she enjoys it because she loves learning, it can be hard to take days off, while there is also the added cost of getting someone to come

and look after her horses while she is on a course. “But you are investing in yourself, and it makes you a better coach.” She acknowledges that professional coaches are often up against those who are known for their competition success but says: “It’s a different type of knowledge. Professional coaches can offer a training programme that has been developed and is valued by national bodies. Qualifications matter, and they also help you improve as a person, not just as a coach, so you can offer a better service to your client. Level 3 for example introduces performance profiling so that coaches start to consider their clients as athletes and to develop them in combination with their horses rather than just teaching.” New clients mainly come via word of mouth, although she is aiming to use social media more. “I’m working with a business coach and I know it’s part of the job. I offer video analysis and a performance programme and you have to do justice to these aspects too.” Amy comments that she only rides clients’ horses if it is valuable to the coaching programme.

BD Learning Hub

Coaching Certificate

Coaching Qualifications

Apprenticeships

“I don’t rely on it as a service; it’s time consuming and it’s not something I need to do on a regular basis.” Her own horses include a home-bred warmblood and an Anglo Arab that she has taken to Inter I, which she says makes her relatable to amateur riders who may not have an unlimited budget for dressage. “Coaching is a career that works well alongside being a groom or rider; I would advise anyone coming into the industry to get coaching qualifications and benefit from the CPD. There are so many avenues to go down; I’ve also worked with EQ Bands to offer biomechanics coaching. One benefit of working with horses is that you can combine lots of skills and find your niche.”

NEXT TIME: Off-yard careers in the industry BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Transport.

Winter travels If you tow a trailer, safety should always be a priority, particularly during the cold, wet winter months. Stephanie Bateman speaks to industry experts about preparing for the journey, keeping your horse comfortable and what to do if something goes wrong. WINTER TR AILER CHECKS

Regular trailer safety checks are important throughout the year, but particularly during winter, when colder temperatures, wet weather and periods of inactivity can all take their toll. Unlike cars, trailers are not subject to compulsory MOT testing, putting the responsibility on owners to make sure they remain safe and roadworthy. “The three key areas to check regularly are the floor, tyres and electrics,” advises Claire Barker from PRP Rescue. “Tyres

PICTURED Planning some winter outings? Make sure that your trailer and towing vehicle are correctly prepared for a safe journey.

and electrics should be checked before every journey, much like the walk-around checks HGV drivers have to carry out before driving.” Check the trailer floor for damage or deterioration and have any concerns professionally investigated before transporting a horse. Pay particular attention to tyres, as changes in weather and temperature can affect the rubber, especially when a trailer has been standing unused for a prolonged period.

Claire recommends checking for cracking or grazing of the sidewalls, which can indicate perishing. Check tyre pressures and remember the spare which should be in a serviceable condition if it is going to be any use in an emergency. Other pre-journey checks should include ensuring the coupling is correctly engaged with the tow ball and the breakaway cable is correctly attached and free from damage. >

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Transport.

“The three key areas to check regularly are the floor, tyres and electrics” Check the jockey wheel is secure and fully raised, and inspect the wheels, brakes, handbrake and visible brake cables and components. Lights and reflectors should be clean and working correctly, with electrical cabling, mudguards and the number plate secure and in good condition.

WHEN THINGS GO WRONG PICTURED Using w3w to provide an accurate location can help your breakdown provider find you more easily.

Even with good preparation, breakdowns happen, and tyre problems are among the most common reasons. “The most common cause of trailer breakdown is a flat tyre or blowout and we attend many such incidents each week,” says Claire.

If you experience a fault, pull over to as safe a place as possible before calling for assistance. If you cannot get out of a live lane on a motorway or major trunk road, or you are in an immediately dangerous or vulnerable position, contact the appropriate roads authority or emergency services. Your breakdown provider will usually ask for your details and vehicle registration to validate your cover, followed by your location and the nature of the problem. Claire recommends using what3words to provide an accurate location, particularly on an unfamiliar road. It is also worth saving your trailer’s tyre size in your phone or keeping it written down in the vehicle. “If you have a tyre problem you will have to provide your breakdown company with your tyre size, so having it to hand avoids trying to look on the tyres at the roadside,” says Claire. “We can provide new tyres at the roadside, but some trailers have less common tyre sizes which can be difficult to source out of hours, so carrying a serviceable spare is always a good idea.” While waiting for help, always follow the safety advice given by your breakdown provider or the emergency services – and don’t be tempted to climb into the trailer with your horse.

A SMOOTH RIDE

Preparing your trailer is only part of safe winter towing – your driving matters too. • Ensure your towing vehicle has tyres suitable for the conditions and increase braking distances on icy or slippery roads. • With the additional weight of a loaded trailer behind you, it is important to leave plenty of space to slow down safely particularly when grip is reduced. • Your horse is also constantly adjusting their balance in the trailer, so aim for smooth acceleration, progressive braking and steady cornering. Approach bends and roundabouts carefully, giving your horse time to adjust their balance, and reduce your speed over poor or uneven road surfaces. • A useful rule of thumb is to drive as though you have a bottle of water standing up in the footwell of the passenger side – the aim is to drive smoothly enough for the bottle to stay upright. • Before setting off, make sure partitions, breast and breeching bars and other fittings are correctly positioned and secure, along with any equipment being carried. • Ventilation remains important in winter too; horses generate heat and moisture while travelling, so rug according to the temperature, rather than closing windows and doors, to ensure fresh air can circulate.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Transport.

“Do not go into the trailer with your horses, particularly if they are unsettled,” Claire warns. “It is extremely dangerous to be in a confined space with horses in a situation where their behaviour may be unpredictable. We have had to call ambulances to breakdown locations due to people standing in lorries and trailers with their animals at the roadside.”

FIT TING A TOW BAR?

CHECK YOUR COVER

Finally, make sure your breakdown policy provides the right level of cover when horses are on board. “It is extremely important to have specialist equine breakdown cover, as standard car cover won’t provide assistance to vehicles – or trailers – carrying horses or livestock,” says Claire. “This includes breakdown of your car whilst towing your trailer and horses. “Specialist equine companies are also able to advise on the best way to handle each breakdown situation, with the welfare of the horses always being the primary consideration.”.

PICTURED Never go into the trailer with your horse in the event of a breakdown.

Choosing the right tow bar and electrics is an important part of a safe towing set-up. Equi-Trek distributors, PF Jones, explains what to consider. “When having a tow bar fitted, one of the first things to consider is the electrics. Modern vehicles and trailers increasingly use a 13-pin socket, which provides additional functions including reversing lights and extra power, so this is generally the option we recommend. If you have a 7-pin connection, adapters are available. “You can choose between a fixed and detachable tow bar. Detachable systems are equally safe when correctly fitted and locked into position and incorporate a safety indicator, which shows green when the tow bar has been properly engaged. “When obtaining quotes, ask for a vehicle-specific wiring kit. This is designed to communicate correctly with the vehicle’s electronics and, depending on the vehicle, can allow it to recognise when a trailer is connected, activate features such as trailer stability systems and disable rear parking sensors where appropriate. “Once fitted, regularly check the tow bar for signs of movement, damage or corrosion and ensure the bolts and supporting framework remain secure. Corrosion deserves particular attention for vehicles kept near the coast, although most tow bars are powder coated to protect them from the elements. “If you have a detachable tow bar, remove it when it isn’t required and store it somewhere clean, dry and secure. A professionally fitted tow bar using the correct vehicle-specific components, combined with regular checks, should provide many years of safe, reliable use.” PICTURED Check that your vehicle’s tow bar is correctly fitted and that the electrics are compatible with your trailer before hitching up.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Girths.

Round the middle There’s a myriad of different girths on the market, and what suits one horse might not work for another. Jane Carley finds out more.

IMAGE: FAIRFAX SADDLES

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

hoosing the right girth for your dressage saddle is not as simple as establishing the correct length and checking that it fits. The girth needs to fit the horse’s shape not only when static but also dynamically, explains SMS Qualified Saddle Fitter and equine bodyworker Oonagh Endersby. “The girth needs to offer the horse stability and comfort when moving as well as standing still. It can look right but then doesn’t work dynamically. Horses are individual – you may need to try a number of girth designs on your saddle to see when your horse offers you the best stride, frame and response to the aids.” Oonagh stresses that correct saddle fit and balance comes first, and that before considering swapping the girth, riders should ensure that these criteria are met and that the saddle has been regularly inspected by a saddle fitter. “No design works for every horse, and while ‘anatomically shaped’ girths have become very popular, some horses simply don’t need them.” One point to consider is the shape of the horse’s rib cage: whether it is rounded and bulges out behind the girth or tapers in, which can lead the girth to slide back.

Girths.

Also check that the saddle fits the rider otherwise this can lead to defensive riding and further discomfort for the horse.” DIMENSIONS

IMAGE: LEMIEUX

Girth length is important, Oonagh comments. “Too short and the buckles will impact on the elbow – cadaver dissections have revealed scarring and areas where the muscle has pulled away from the elbow due to pinching from girths. But too long and it will catch the rider’s leg and interfere with the leg aids. Aim for a position between the bottom of the saddle cloth and the elbow.” The width of the girth is also significant, she says. “Some horses prefer girths to be broad, some narrower. A cut out – which can be more or less exaggerated – gives the elbows freedom.”

MATERIAL S

Some horses will sweat a lot when worked, in which case sheepskin won’t be ideal, Oonagh points out. “Sheepskin can be very hot, and when it gets sweaty becomes matted and can rub. It will need to be regularly cleaned to ensure that it remains soft and fluffy. “Sweat also affects leather girths, making them go firm and hard – they should always be washed off and left to dry before applying leather balm.” Neoprene is widely accepted – again it can be hot but offers useful softness, she comments. Memory foam is another option. >

PICTURED

IMAGE: PRESTIGE ITALIA

A thoroughbred that is very deep from the wither to the sternum can often be more comfortable in a girth with elastic at both ends, allowing the sternum to pull away as the horse inhales on each stride. “However, with a rounder cob or Irish draft type, elastic can cause instability. The length and quality of the elastic are significant – a shorter piece of elastic is more stable and poor quality material can quickly become too stretchy.” Choosing which girth straps to use where the saddle has three rather than two depends on the horse and to some extent the girth, she comments. “It’s important to know which strap position suits your horse’s conformation best and your saddle fitter can help with this and all aspects of saddle and girth fit.” It’s important to keep it simple, says Oonagh. “If your saddle and girth set up works, don’t change it for the sake of it.” She stresses that if the horse seems uncomfortable with its girth the first action should always be to check the saddle fit. “Whatever you do with the girth, the saddle won’t be stable unless it fits.

Segmented girths can work very well but, she points out, ‘check saddle stability’. “Designs with a broad pad at the centre and individual elasticated sections seem to be very well accepted, although there’s very little data on them as yet.”

Finding the right girth can be a matter of trial and error – you may need to test several different designs.

PICTURED

Above inset: Adjust tightness by feel, not by selecting the ‘usual hole’.

IMAGE: ABSOLUTE EQUESTRIAN COLLECTIVE

Above: Check the position of the buckles – too low and they will impact on the elbow, too high and they can interfere with the rider’s leg position.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Girths.

Girths should be checked regularly for cleanliness and for any wear or damage that could cause rubbing. TRIED AND TES TED

Once you are happy with your saddle fit Oonagh recommends trying several different girths to help choose the one that fits best with your saddle, how you ride and your horses anatomy and movement. “There are now ‘girth banks’ allowing you to hire a girth to try, or your saddle fitter may have a selection.” TOO TIGHT ? IMAGE: STÜBBEN

No design works for every horse, and while ‘anatomically shaped’ girths have become very popular, some horses simply don’t need them. “It’s considered a cheap option, but the grip offered by a traditional synthetic waffle can be useful for rounder types.” A recent trend for broad string girths with sheepskin over the buckles is mainly for its perceived comfort benefits, but Oonagh warns. “You just have to check that hairs are not getting pinched between the strings.” Buckle guards should be long enough to ensure that the buckles don’t sit into the ribs and should offer sufficient protection behind the buckle ends. For safety, Oonagh also recommends checking stitching every time the girth is used. Some girths have a ring at the centre for a breastplate or martingale clip to be attached, and Oonagh says these are a good alternative to a strap that passes around the girth, avoiding pressure. They could also be used at home with a training aid.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Above: Segmented designs have been shown to be well accepted. Right: Fleece linings to girths can increase comfort, but ensure they are kept clean and soft.

GIRTH RUBS

While these can be caused by the girth itself, they can also be caused by the saddle moving around, along with the pad (s) and girth. “Always check the saddle set up when investigating a girth rub,” advises Oonagh.

Snugness of the girth is another area for individual preference. “Don’t think that you always need to have it on the same hole; do it up by feel, not by the number of holes. Horses can be rounder or leaner day to day.” If the girth is too tight, it can also pull the saddle down into the horse’s back, affecting its fit and causing discomfort. “The horse can change shape if he starts to concentrate on dressage having previously mainly jumped for example, or as you start to step up the workload as he moves up the levels. This may mean that a girth that fitted in the past no longer fits.” A DIFFERENT HORSE ?

“We’ve seen some dramatic transformations by getting the saddle and girth choice and fit right; but equally it can take more time to see a difference, which comes as the horse begins to work in a more elevated frame” IMAGE: JESS PHOTOGRAPHY

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Product Watch Advertorial.

GIRTHS & SADDLES THE UNIT Y DRESSAGE SADDLE is designed

to unite horse and rider, enhancing pelvic motion for greater harmony with the horse’s movement. Available in X and Y seat profiles to accommodate different rider morphologies, plus V, U and XU tree profiles in a wide range of widths for exceptional fitting precision. Its mono-flap design creates a close, connected feel, supporting a balanced and effective riding position.

EQUIPE GH1 9 ROSE EL A S TIC SHORT DRESSAGE GIRTH

ensures maximum stability and freedom of movement. Crafted from high-quality leather and bi-elastic material, it ensures comfortable contact with the horse and even pressure distribution. Stainless steel roller buckles provide smooth and wear-resistant fastening. A perfect choice for riders seeking a high-performance, ergonomic girth. Available in black, brown, Newmarket or red-brown in sizes 50-90cm. RRP: £262 zebraproducts.co.uk

RRP: From £4,435 | albionsaddlemakers.co.uk

FREESPACE GIRTH

One of a range of modular girths and sternum plates from WOW, the innovative FreeSpace girth gives your horse full freedom to move because it completely removes pressure on key pectoral muscles. This groundbreaking girth is suitable for every rider’s horse and all saddle makes. Lengths from 50-141cm. RRP: From £273 | wowsaddles.com/girths

THE 3A15 2 RP DRESSAGE GIRTH features a patented design developed to enhance comfort and stability. Suitable for horses and ponies, it combines a dressage girth sliding inside an innovative round-shaped panel that reduces lateral movement and distributes pressure more evenly. The panel’s design creates an air-cushion effect, helping minimise pressure points. The result is greater comfort for the horse and a more secure, balanced feel under saddle.

RRP: £320.70 | prestigeitalia.com

MAT TES offers short and long, western and stud girths in anatomical, asymmetric, crescent or ‘athletico’ shapes, guaranteeing a perfect fit and superior comfort for every equine conformation. Soft lambskin padding relieves strain, prevents slipping and avoids chafing and skin irritation. Mattes girths offer special details such as the narrow section around the elbows, Soft-Edge and Poly-Flex inserts.

RRP: From £190.50 zebraproducts.co.uk

GEL-TEK ANATOMIC DRESSAGE GIRTH A high performance girth that maximises comfort with a combination of dynamic gel and ultra soft oiled leather, which absorbs and spreads pressure evenly across the surface area of the girth. Sizes 45cm – 75cm, available in black.

RRP: £129.95 | lemieux.com 74

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Product Watch Advertorial.

S TUBBEN EQUI-SOF T GIRTH offers unmatched

THE SCHARF FREEDOM GIRTH combines comfort,

comfort, designed to allow natural breathing, freedom of movement and relaxation. The innovative elastic ring system expands and contracts with your horse’s natural breathing, ensuring even pressure distribution. Only use with the interchangeable padding, available in a choice of neoprene, lambswool and leather.

flexibility and performance in one innovative design. Its independent plates distribute load more evenly while allowing the girth to move with the horse and reduce restriction through the sternum and ribcage. Available in dressage, ‘backtrack’ and GP models, the Freedom range is designed to support unrestricted movement, greater comfort and a more natural feel across training, competition and everyday riding.

RRP: girth from £169; pad from £99 | stuebben.com

THE FAIRFA X DRESSAGE GIRTH

RRP: From £285 | absoluteequestriancollective.com

is scientifically designed and tested using pressure mapping and gait analysis. Its contoured shape avoids the sensitive area behind the horse’s elbow, while a floating edge allows natural muscle movement beneath the girth. Lined with Prolite for optimal pressure distribution and impact absorption, and handmade in Walsall, England from the finest English leather, it delivers exceptional comfort and enhanced performance for every dressage horse and rider. Sizes 50-85cm in black. RRP: From £245 | fairfaxsaddles.com

BRIDLE AND GIRTH BANK

Find the right girth with the David Dyer Saddles Girth Bank. Choose from a wide range of leading brands and styles, purchase your chosen girth in full and have 14 days to assess the fit at home. If it’s not right, return it within the Girth Bank return period for a 90% refund. Expert fitting advice is available from our team. RRP: POA | daviddyersaddles.co.uk BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Fashion.

Bottoms up Breeches. There’s no hiding from your reflection so we’ve asked leading brands to pick out their most flattering – and functional – designs. And because winter is on its way, we’re also looking at what are the best options when the wind and the rain become

PICTURED

your worst enemy.

White Brilliance breeches from LeMieux are made from a bonded fabric which is more opaque and has a closer fit while maintaining flexibility and comfort.

Jane Carley reports.

eMieux offers an extensive range of breeches for competition and everyday wear as Sarah Gibson, Head of Product Design, explains: “For us, fit is really important when looking at our breeches offering. We have done a lot of work regarding the fit and shaping both in and out of the saddle. Whether this is from seat panel shaping for a flattering fit; pocket placement for functional use or by offering different rise lengths (low/mid) to suit different customer’s needs.” The new LeMieux Brilliance breeches feature a clever outer and front seam which not only means no inner seam to rub but also flatters curves and even creates them where needed. Sarah explains: “The fabric and fit is shared with our much-loved old favourite Isabelle Breeches but with a new design and most importantly a bit of sparkle. Our white colourway has been slightly adjusted to a bonded fabric which is more opaque and has a closer fit, whilst maintaining flexibility and comfort for every ride.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

PICTURED Fancy an Espresso? Brown is the new black for Cavalliera Toscana.

Samshield has similarly paid attention to ensuring that its breeches both look good and wear well. “Our entire range of breeches is designed to combine a flattering fit with technical performance, comfort and functionality,” comments Community Manager Alix Devillers. Samshield’s latest fabrics are highly technical, stretchy and durable, with designs developed to meet the demands of everyday riding and competition. Depending on the model, features include high-waisted flattering cuts, plus distinctive pleats below the waist. On the Claranova breech for example, this is paired with a v-cut waistband, contrast stitching and Swarovski crystal on the back pockets for a stylish look. Premier Equine’s Lewis Collins comments: “Stretch, recovery and

thoughtful seam placement can make an enormous difference to how breeches look and feel across different figures. “Rather than relying on a very rigid traditional construction, technical fourway stretch fabrics allow the garment to work with the rider’s body. We’re combining that flexibility with elements such as high or supportive waistbands, sculpting fabrics, contoured panels and shaping seam lines. The Coco II is a good example of the more sculpted approach, with its highrise waistband and technical stretch fabric, while the Filetto offers a standardrise alternative with carefully contoured back panelling. “Our Coco II women’s gel full seat riding breeches are crafted from a technical sculpting fabric with high-stretch properties, creating a supportive, secondskin feel without restricting movement. The high-rise, wide waistband offers

Fashion.

additional support through the core and helps the breeches stay securely in place, while carefully positioned seams are designed to flatter the silhouette. He adds: “For riders wanting a lighter, more traditionally tailored look, the Filetto women’s gel full seat riding breeches combine classic equestrian styling with modern sportswear technology. The lightweight, breathable four-way stretch fabric gives excellent freedom of movement, while its twill surface creates that crisp, smart appearance riders associate with traditional breeches.” The full grip Cavalleria Toscana women’s American dressage breeches are designed to combine elegance and performance thanks to the classic piqué structure with technical fibres, offering maximum breathability and high comfort while riding, explains Lea Rae of distributor Zebra Products. “The high waistband comes with an internal grip, which provides the best fit over your shirt and features wide belt loops to accommodate a belt. A full transparent seat offers the perfect amount of grip to the saddle, while keeping the flexibility, and the stretch-knit socks with contrasting logo fit easily beneath your boots. The easy-care material can be washed at low temperatures and dries quickly.” BE AT THE ELEMENT S

PICTURED LeMieux’s Darcey waterproof three quarter over breeches will keep you dry on the filthiest of days.

PICTURED For something different, how about the Riders Gene breeches from Cavalleria Toscana in forest green?

Made for quick changes at rainy competitions, these three quarter length stretch breeches with tapered leg fit could be worn to get ready and warm up, or as a white colourway is available, even in the arena. Full zips on each outside leg seam make them quick and easy to put on and take off over boots, while adjustable popper fastenings at the hems and waist offer a comfortable fit. A silicone grip on the inner hem cuff grips the top of the boot to prevent riding up. A raised, elasticated centre-back waist offers a flattering tapered fit with added comfort and splash protection. Small silicone knee grips on the inside leg lend a little stability when riding in the warm-up ring. While being designed primarily as a protective all-weather breech, Premier Equine’s Amnis women’s waterproof gel full seat riding breeches also use shaping seam lines to create a flattering, supportive fit.

Lewis Collins explains: “The waterproof outer fabric provides protection against wet conditions, while breathability and moisturewicking technology help maintain comfort when the rider is active. “We’ve also used taped waterproof zips on the pockets to help keep essentials dry and secure. Jersey cuff hems sit smoothly inside riding boots without unnecessary bulk, and a wide waistband with double-button fastening provides stability and support. “The full gel seat adds grip and security in the saddle, making the Amnis a particularly versatile option for training, hacking and yard work when the forecast is less than favourable.” Cold legs are one of the most depressing signs that winter has landed, and if you’re relying on breeches to keep you warm, the JV013 version of Cavalleria Toscana’s full grip breeches has a brushed lining which will give a cosy feel, while the high waistband not only flatters but with its internal grip also helps keep layers firmly tucked in. > PICTURED Grey is a flattering option that could work for a competition breech, such as Premier Equine’s Coco II.

“We are continuously wearer trialling and testing new fabrics to improve comfort when training and competing,” says LeMieux’s Sarah Gibson. “We offer different fabric weights to support the rider through various weather conditions. Our Drytex breeches are made from a waterproof fabric (as well as a fleece backing) which helps with water/ dirt resistance.” The Drytex breeches also have sealed zips on the hip pockets – no more soggy tissues! And if you are competing on the filthiest of days, consider LeMieux’s Darcey waterproof over breeches to help keep your competition breeches clean around mud/rain. BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Fashion.

ALL IN THE DE TAIL S

‘Sticky’ seats are enduringly popular with patterned silicone or gel inserts having largely replaced suede-type fabrics. For those preferring more movement in the saddle, knee patches are a good alternative. Breeches have become more decorative in recent years too – subtle logos on the leg are permitted under BD rules and LeMieux picks theirs out in a crystal effect. Crystals on pockets and waistbands make competition breeches feel that bit more special or cheer up a gloomy day on your ‘work’ breeches. Premier Equine has added metallic bit ornaments to its Filetto breeches as another stylish detail. Phone pockets have become a popular addition – ideal in a summer when bulky jackets were not an option but also handy when mounted. Top left: Samshield’s discreet phone pocket is a popular detail. Top centre: Taped pockets on LeMieux’s Drytex waterproof breeches. Left: Metallic bit ornaments add a stylish touch to Premier Equine’s Filetto. Bottom centre: The ever popular gel seat on LeMieux Brilliance breeches. Bottom left: A little sparkle cheers up ‘work’ breeches.

COLOUR CHOICES PICTURED A stunning deep tan from Samshield could ‘pop’ with a black jacket.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

The recent relaxation of BD rules on breeches colours means that riders can choose a practical option on a miserable day or choose a shade to complement their jacket or even their horse. “We are seeing growing interest in more individuality within competition outfits,” comments Samshield’s Alix Devillers. “Alongside timeless competition colours, our collections offer a wider range of refined shades, allowing riders to express their personal style while maintaining an elegant and sophisticated look.” These include a stunning deep tan which would make a classic black jacket stand out or tone with a tweed, several blues and even ‘pistaccio’, a flattering pale green. LeMieux’s Brilliance breeches are available in four colours, including the distinctive, warm Espresso, likely to be a favourite for training, but also a great combination with tweed. Espresso is also the name of a slightly lighter brown shade which

PICTURED Ready to ditch white? Cavalleria Toscana has plenty of shades of beige.

is an option for Cavalleria Toscana’s American dressage breeches; a new twist on a classic breeches shape. Grey is another flattering option, and comes in a range of shades including a slimming iron grey in Premier Equine’s Coco II breeches which could add a smart twist to a competition outfit. ‘Stone’ tones of beige are worth a look if you want to move away from white for the arena but aren’t ready for anything too dark. A good choice is offered by Cavalleria Toscana including the intriguingly named ‘dirty white’ – not the way that most white breeches look after an encounter with a black saddle in the rain, but actually a soothing off-white. For something a bit different, Cavelleria Toscana’s Riders Gene Women’s high-waist breeches in bonded technical fabric with rhinestone details on pockets and back, combined with the RG logo and embossed silicone print finishes are available in an autumnal forest green colourway.

Product Watch Advertorial.

FASHION & ACCESSORIES L AUREN EMBLEM EDITION The Lauren Emblem

Edition show jacket combines timeless elegance with technical performance. Designed for the competition arena, its refined silhouette is enhanced by Samshield’s signature Emblem pattern, creating a distinctive yet sophisticated look. Crafted for comfort and freedom of movement, it seamlessly blends equestrian tradition with contemporary style. RRP: £749 | samshield.com/en

MEN ’ S SPORT S BREECHES These must-have breeches are designed

BL AIR BREECH

especially for men with the durability and fit you expect from LeMieux. With a slim fit silhouette in four-way stretch fabric for comfort and unrestricted movement. Sizes 28 – 36in, available in black, grey, navy and white.

Elevate your riding style in these traditional midrise riding breeches. Our latest take on a classic, this pair features a modern sophisticated curved design for a figure-flattering fit. Back pocket flap styling, cord pocket trim and central back belt loop trim lend luxurious finishing touches. Sizes UK6 - UK18, available in navy and black and in half seat and full seat styles.

RRP: £104.95 | lemieux.com

CHES TER BOOT S are made-to-measure boots that are fully customised by you, for

one fixed price. Crafted in Portugal from high-quality leathers. Choose your style, leather and all detailing to create personalised riding boots made for performance. In person and online appointments are available to create your boots.

RRP: £89.95 | lemieux.com RRP: £599 | chesterboots.co.uk

FL AT TERING & FUNC TIONAL BREECHES For 2026, Premier Equine adds three new

styles to its collection of technical breeches: the Amnis, Filetto and Torino II. Designed with function, comfort and a flattering fit in mind, the collection features breathable stretch fabrics, supportive waistbands and carefully placed seam lines. Practical details, secure grip and tailored finishes create breeches suited to training, competition and everyday riding, while maintaining a refined appearance both in and out of the saddle. RRP: from £60 | premierequine.co.uk

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Before Collection there is Connection

Building the foundations of partnership

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BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Proprietors

Regional News

REGION UPDATES NORTH & WEST The N&W Youth riders have enjoyed an exceptional summer of competition, producing a string of outstanding performances at both the Inter Regionals at Kelsall and the Home Nations at Vale View and taking the top spot at both. At the Inter Regionals, Team Brazil – Abi Fox, Bonnie Inskip, India Edwards and Verity

NORTH & EAST It has been a fantastic season of competition for our North & East Teams, with excellent results across the Senior, Para and Youth Home Nations. We had the great pleasure of hosting the Senior and Para Home Nations at Pickering

Matthews – were crowned YIR Champions. Zoe Clewlow also enjoyed a brilliant competition, taking the title of C+ Champion. The success continued at the Home Nations, where Team Spain – Olivia Booth, Katrina Metford, India Edwards and Anna Wheeldon – claimed the YHN Championship. There were also individual titles aplenty.

Grange, where the Senior N&E Reading team took first place. We would also like to congratulate all our regional riders on their successes at the Nationals. Looking ahead, our Senior Camp takes place from 26 – 28 October at Bishop Burton. Our

WALES Our Welsh riders have done us proud across the Para, Senior and Youth teams where there were multiple podium placings. Individually, Lacey Owen-Morgan took an impressive win in the FEI Pony Individual at the Youth Home Nations. At the youth Inter Regionals at the Eleanor Summerfield, Lacey Owen-Morgan and Phoebe Simcox each brought home victories in the D, C and B+ Squad competitions. At the Nationals, the Welsh riders performed with pride, securing some incredible results! The Welsh Annual Ball will be taking place at the St Pierre Hotel. Tickets can be secured in the BD Wales Horse Monkey page.

Get the latest news from your region. This is your one-stop shop for training updates, team news and exciting opportunities.

SOUTH & WEST What a busy summer we have had in the South & West region: starting with the Premier League, CDI and CPEDI at Wellington Riding, we ran straight into the Premier League, CDI and CPEDI at Hartpury and the Premier League at Chard. Congratulations to all of the South & West Riders who showed us just what dressage should be like – we had some brilliant results across the board. As autumn approaches we are focussing more on training across the region with the start of our South & West Inter County Challenge qualification starting on 1 October.

Youth Camp follows at the same venue from 30 October – Sunday 1 November. The Gala Evening, which will be held in the evening of the 31 October, is open to all, with a very special guest to be announced on our Facebook page.

SOUTH & EAST It has been a great season for the South and East riders across the Senior, Para and Youth teams. Youth riders Emilia Mole and Molly Powell finished second in the C+ Squad and B+ Squad, while the Emerald team secured a very close fourth place at the Inter Regionals. At the Senior and Para Home Nations, Chelsea Donovan was the highest placed Senior rider, finishing fourth in the Advanced Medium/PSG Championships, and para rider Sarah Oram brought home a fantastic second place in the Individual Grade V Competition. We would also like to congratulate all the South & East riders who were competing at the National Championships. Looking ahead, we have our fantastic South and East Annual Ball that is due to take place on the 14 November at the Union Jack Club, Waterloo, London. More information for tickets can be found on the S&E Horse Monkey page.

REGIONAL TRAINING To find your local region contacts and infomation on regional training, including camps, test riding, social activities, demos and much more, simply open the camera on your device and scan the codes opposite. Alternatively, visit the BD website, find your region and head to the regional training page via your web browser.

SCOTL AND It was a very successful National Championships for the Scottish riders at Somerford with four title wins and some great placings too. We are looking forward to our performance camp in October with Hannah Moody and Gillian Peters, with an evening demo by Hannah and Harry Payne. A highlight of the year is the BD Scotland Ball on the 21 November where we recognise achievements from the region over the last year. It is a great way to catch up with friends and fellow members from across the region. It’s sure to be a great night.

South & East

South & West

North & West

North & East

Scotland

Wales

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

BD Action.

BD ACTION

Keep up-to-date with the latest notices, news and views from British Dressage at britishdressage.co.uk

BD PRESENT S

PICTURED Gareth Hughes and Michael Eilberg are amongst the hosts for BD Presents. PHOTO: KB PHOTOGRAPHY

Tickets are now on sale for this year’s BD Presents, which will be delivered in partnership with Rothera Bray. This event will explore the theme of Harmonious Progression, which aims to focus on how horses and riders can develop a successful, ethical partnership, built on mutual trust and understanding, as they advance in their training. We’re delighted to welcome FEI 5* judge Isobel Wessels, and former World Championship team riders Gareth Hughes and Michael Eilberg, who will each lead individual sessions throughout the day.

DIREC TOR APPOINTMENT S

In line with the British Dressage Articles of Association, the positions of Chair, International Director and Officials Director were all put forward to the membership for election this year. Jill Day and Anne Keen were the sole candidates put forward to the membership vote for the roles of Chair and International Director respectively and were elected unopposed on a straight yes / no vote by the membership. For the position of Officials Director (previously Judges Director), two candidates were approved and put forward for election by members. Paul Hayler received the majority of votes and has therefore been appointed to the BD Board. All appointments will formally take effect from the date of the British Dressage Annual General Meeting on Thursday 8 October 2026. All three Directors are elected on a four-year term, until October 2030. 82

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Supporting the programme will be Dr Brad Hill MRCVS, Clinical Assistant Professor of Equine Clinical Practice at the University of Nottingham Vet School and an equine behavioural specialist, who will offer some invaluable perspectives on equine behaviour and learning theory. This year’s event will be held at Hartpury University & College, Gloucestershire on Saturday 21 November. Scan the QR code to buy your tickets now:

MA JOR DATES 2027

JUDGE RE TIREMENT S

We would like to wish the following judges all the best for the future as they retire from judging, and thank them for all of their contributions: Carly Ogden List 3 (North & West), Lesley Burton List 6 (North & West), Jane Watkins List 6 (South & East) and Debbie Guillou List 4 (South & West). We were also saddened to learn of the passing of BD listed judge Hazel Wells, from the South & East region, in July 2026, and would like to extend our condolences to all of Hazel’s friends and family.

The major dates list for 2027 is now available to view via the BD website. Featuring the primary championship fixtures throughout the year, from Quest and Area Festivals through to Premier Leagues and domestic international fixtures. The Sports Operations team have worked tirelessly with venues to deliver this calendar, reviewing data and feedback as part of the process, to ensure that every rider has opportunities to achieve qualifications, selection scores and meet eligibility requirements. Please note there are some dates that are due to be confirmed and the Sport Operations team is working behind the scenes to finalise these dates and venues. Further updates will be posted on the BD website.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Diary Dates.

Whats on

Our new guide to competitions and BD events from 5 October - . Please refer to the BD Schedules webpage for the most up-to-date schedule information.

Venue

County

MON 5 OCT

TUE 6 OCT Norfolk West Sussex Herefordshire Leicestershire

WED 7 OCT Topthorn Arena (P-M) Mendip Plains Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Beacons Equestrian (P-AM) Checkendon Equestrian Centre (P-N) Elms Farm Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Alnwick Ford Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Aike Grange Stud (I-AM)+FS Speedgate Events (P-INTI)+FS+PE+PEFS

Suffolk Somerset Carmarthenshire Berkshire Lincolnshire Northumberland East Riding of Yorkshire Kent

THU 8 OCT Silver Leys Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI) West Wilts Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Bicton Arena (P-GP/PYO FEI) Brantridge Park Stud (P-GP)

Hertfordshire Wiltshire Devon West Sussex

FRI 9 OCT Stourport Riding Centre (E-GP/PYO FEI) Prestige Equestrian LLP (P-GP/PYO FEI)

Worcestershire Gloucestershire

SAT 10 OCT The Croft Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Moreton Morrell (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS+PE+PEFS Bluegate Hall Farm (P-AM) Duchy College (I-PSG)+FS+PE+PEFS South Staffordshire College (P-AM)+FS Rockrose Equestrian Sports Centre (P-GP/ PYO FEI) Pachesham Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Cockshot (P-GP/PYO FEI) Addington Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Ballavartyn Equestrian Centre (I-AM)

Berkshire Warwickshire Essex Cornwall Staffordshire East Lothian Surrey Cheshire Buckinghamshire Isle of Man

Norfolk Aberdeenshire

SUN 11 OCT Bishop Burton College (I-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Northallerton Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS+PE+PEFS Little Mill Equestrian (P-PSG)+FS+PE Eland Lodge Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Blackdyke Farm (P-M) Stourport Riding Centre (P-E) Radfords Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Bold Heath Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Golden Cross Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Chard Equestrian Ltd (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Aike Grange Stud (I-AM)+FS

East Riding of Yorkshire North Yorkshire Carmarthenshire Derbyshire Cumbria Worcestershire Powys

Cheshire East Sussex Somerset East Riding of Yorkshire Cherwell Competition Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Oxfordshire Marian Bach (I-AM)+FS Flintshire Aster Academy Dressage (P-GP/PYO FEI)+PE Kent Prestige Equestrian LLP (P-GP/PYO FEI)+PE Gloucestershire Morris Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS East Ayrshire Viewmount Equestrian (I-GP) Inverness Mundole Equestrian (I-AM) Moray TUE 13 OCT Swn y Mor (I-AM)+PE

East Riding of Yorkshire Hampshire Durham Gloucestershire Cheshire

WED 14 - SUN 18 OCT Aintree International Equestrian Centre High Profile Show

Merseyside

THU 15 OCT

SAT 10 - SUN 11 OCT Bogenraith Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

Bury Farm Equestrian Village (P-GP/PYO Buckinghamshire FEI)+FS Beechwood Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Essex Forest Edge Arena (P-GP/PYO FEI) Felbridge Showground (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Bromyard Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI) Newbold Verdon Equestrian Centre (P-GP/ PYO FEI)

Forest Edge Arena (P-GP/PYO FEI)

Port Royal Equestrian & Exhibition Centre (P-INTI)+FS Quob Stables (P-PSG) West Park Equestrian Services (P-AM)+FS Burrows Court Farm (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FSM only Reaseheath College (P-AM)

Gwynedd

WED 14 OCT

Solihull Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS+PE+PEFS Pickering Grange Equestrian (I-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Half Moon Stud (P-PSG)

West Midlands Leicestershire Dorset

THU 15 - SUN 18 OCT Sheepgate Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

Lincolnshire

FRI 16 OCT Allens Hill Competition & Livery Centre (P-AM)+PE Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Lake Farm (I-PSG) Brook Farm Training Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Badgworth Arena (P-E)

Worcestershire Warwickshire Isle of Wight Essex Somerset

FRI 16 - SUN 18 OCT Scottish National Equestrian Centre (I-AM)+FS+PE

West Lothian

SAT 17 OCT Kingswood Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Lluest Equine Centre (P-AM)+FS Lower Stocklands Farm (P-E) Stretcholt Farm (P-AM)+PE+PEFS Wellington Riding (P-E) Foxes (I-E) The College Of West Anglia (P-INTI) Alnwick Ford Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Ladyleys Equestrian (P-AM)+FS Hartpury University and Hartpury College (P-AM)

Staffordshire Ceredigion Cardiff Somerset Hampshire Cheshire Cambridgeshire Northumberland Aberdeenshire Gloucestershire

WELLING TON AUTUMN INTERNATIONAL 7 – 11 OCTOBER

Wellington Riding

Watch some of the country’s top combinations compete in this CDI and CPEDI, as we head towards the end of the domestic international season. Set in Hampshire and with top facilities, Wellington Riding will be putting on another fabulous show as competitors look to end the year on a high. Available to live stream on Horse & Country.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Diary Dates.

Myerscough College (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

DRESSAGE FUTURE ELITE CHAMPIONSHIP 8 OCTOBER

Holmside Hall Equestrian Durham (I-AM)+FS+PE+PEFS Newbold Verdon Equestrian Centre (I-AM)+FS Leicestershire Fenning Farm (P-AM) Cambridgeshire Hargate Arena (I-E)+FS Derbyshire Chapelton Equestrian Centre (I-AM)+FS Highland Queach Farm Stables (I-M) Suffolk Bromyard Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Herefordshire Solihull Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS West Midlands Codham Park Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI) Essex Moor Farm Equestrian Centre (P-E) Pembrokeshire Elms Farm Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Lincolnshire

Horse of the Year Show – Birmingham NEC

The Dressage Future Elite class at Horse of the Year Show provides equine stars of the future with a great opportunity to experience one of the country’s top indoor atmospheres, and compete for a shot at a title where many of the previous winners have gone on to achieve international success. Amersham Dressage (P-E)+FS Colraine Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) Dressage at Hascombe (P-GP)

Buckinghamshire Cornwall East Sussex

SAT 17 - SUN 18 OCT BS Guernsey (P-GP/PYO FEI)+PE Manor Grange Stud (I-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Bury Farm Equestrian Village (I-N)

Sparsholt College (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS+PE+PEFS RDA Unicorn Centre (I-AM)

East Ayrshire Staffordshire Dorset Devon South Yorkshire Durham Cumbria Gloucestershire Moray Warwickshire East Riding of Yorkshire Hampshire Cleveland

SUN 18 - MON 19 OCT Bury Farm Equestrian Village (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

Buckinghamshire

MON 19 OCT Wellington Riding (M-GP/PYO FEI) Hampshire Wellington Riding PE Hampshire Beechwood Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Essex TUE 20 OCT Kings Sedgemoor Equestrian Centre (P-GP/ PYO FEI)+FS Caron Roberts Equestrian (P-AM) Felbridge Showground (P-INTI) Ian Stark Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS

Somerset Wiltshire West Sussex Borders

WED 21 OCT Northallerton Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Topthorn Arena (P-M) Essendon @ Radley Green (P-GP/PYO FEI)+PE Vale View Equestrian (I-GP/PYO FEI) Crofton Manor Equestrian Centre (P-PSG)

Merseyside

North Yorkshire Suffolk Essex Leicestershire Hampshire

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Radfords Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS West Wilts Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Field House Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) Brantridge Park Stud (P-GP)

Powys Wiltshire Staffordshire West Sussex

FRI 23 OCT Brook Farm Training Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Coleg Sir Gar Equine Department (I-AM) Arley Moss (P-INTI)+FS Chard Equestrian Ltd (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

Essex Carmarthenshire Cheshire Somerset Perthshire and Kinross

GDG@The Cabin Equestrian Riding Club (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Broads Equestrian Centre (P-AM)

Hampshire Isle of Man Cornwall Kent Essex Bridgend Warwickshire Suffolk Buckinghamshire Northamptonshire Berkshire Surrey Lincolnshire Devon Gloucestershire Kent South Lanarkshire Aberdeenshire Suffolk

SAT 24 - SUN 25 OCT Port Royal Equestrian & Exhibition Centre (P-INTI)+FS

Monmouthshire

Manor Grange Stud (I-GP/PYO FEI)+FS West Yorkshire Widmer Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Buckinghamshire Newbold Verdon Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO Leicestershire FEI)+FS WED 28 OCT Holmside Hall Equestrian (I-AM)+FS Morris Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Moreton Morrell (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Hunters Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI) Coleg Gwent Usk (P-AM) Myerscough College (P-E)

Durham East Ayrshire Warwickshire Gloucestershire Monmouthshire Lancashire

The D&H Associated Championships @ Addington Equestrian

Buckinghamshire

FRI 30 OCT

SAT 24 OCT Quob Stables (P-GP/PYO FEI) Conrhenny Equestrian Centre (I-AM) Colraine Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) Breach Barn (P-AM)+FS Bluegate Hall Farm (P-M) Bridgend College (I-M) Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Boyton Hall EC (P-M)+FS Windmill Farm Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) Moulton College Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Fairoak Grange Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) Pachesham Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Willow Banks Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS+PE The Grange Equestrian Centre (I-GP)+FS Burrows Court Farm (P-GP/PYO FEI) Speedgate Events (P-AM)+FS Greenfields of Avondale (I-E)

Severnvale Equestrian Centre (I-E)

WED 28 OCT - MON 2 NOV

FRI 23 - SAT 24 OCT Netherton Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

MON 26 OCT TUE 27 OCT

THU 22 OCT Guernsey West Yorkshire Buckinghamshire

SUN 18 OCT Muirmill Equestrian Centre (I-AM) Field House Equestrian Centre (P-INTI) Kingston Maurward College (P-INTI)+FS Bicton College (I-AM) Yorkshire Dressage (P-GP/PYO FEI) West Park Equestrian Services (I-AM) Greenlands Arenas (I-AM) Hunters Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI) Ellands Farm (I-AM) Swallowfield Equestrian (P-AM)+FS Aike Grange Stud (I-AM)+FS

WED 21 - THU 22 OCT Aintree International Equestrian Centre (P-PSG)+FS

Lancashire

SUN 25 OCT

East Riding of Yorkshire

Lime Kiln Farm (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

Norfolk

SAT 31 OCT Swallowfield Equestrian (P-AM) Aster Academy Dressage (P-GP/PYO FEI) Pickering Grange Equestrian (I-AM)+FS Sparsholt College (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Burrows Court Farm (P-GP/PYO FEI) Hartpury University and Hartpury College PE

Warwickshire Kent Leicestershire Hampshire Gloucestershire Gloucestershire

SAT 31 OCT - SUN 1 NOV Tillyoch Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS

Aberdeenshire

SUN 1 NOV Yorkshire Riding Centre (P-M) Fenning Farm (P-AM) Swallowfield Equestrian (P-AM) Beacons Equestrian (P-E) Crofton Manor Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) Hartpury University and Hartpury College (P-AM) Pendarves Events Centre (P-AM) Viewmount Equestrian (I-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Highfield at Howe (P-M)

North Yorkshire Cambridgeshire Warwickshire Carmarthenshire Hampshire Gloucestershire Cornwall Inverness Fife

SUN 1 - MON 2 NOV Bury Farm Equestrian Village (P-GP/ PYOFEI)+FS

Buckinghamshire

Diary Dates.

TUE 3 NOV Kings Sedgemoor Equestrian Centre (P-INTI)+FS Newbold Verdon Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Felbridge Showground (P-INTI) Bromyard Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)

SAT 7 NOV Somerset Leicestershire West Sussex Herefordshire

WED 4 NOV Topthorn Arena (P-M) Beacons Equestrian (P-E) Hunters Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI) Alnwick Ford Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Burrows Court Farm (P-GP/PYO FEI) FSM only Port Royal Equestrian & Exhibition Centre (P-AM)+FS

Suffolk Carmarthenshire Gloucestershire Northumberland Gloucestershire East Riding of Yorkshire

THU 5 NOV Solihull Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS West Midlands Golden Cross Equestrian Centre (P-AM) East Sussex Radfords Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO Powys FEI)+FS Half Moon Stud (P-INTI) Dorset Field House Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Staffordshire Addington Equestrian Centre (P-INTI) Buckinghamshire FRI 6 NOV Allens Hill Competition & Livery Centre (P-AM) Worcestershire Bicton Arena (P-GP/PYO FEI) Devon Brook Farm Training Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Essex Badgworth Arena (I-E) Somerset Prestige Equestrian LLP (P-GP/PYO FEI)+PE Gloucestershire

D&H A SSOCIATED CHAMPIONSHIPS 28 OCTOBER – 2 NOVEMBER Addington

Taking place over six days at Addington Equestrian, the D&H Associated Championships are a showcase of the vast variety of horses and riders training and competing with BD, with title opportunities for all breeds, sizes and types from Connemaras to Cleveland Bays.

Quob Stables (P-PSG) Weston Lawns Equestrian Centre (P-GP/ PYO FEI) Bluegate Hall Farm (P-E) Allens Hill Competition & Livery Centre (P-GP/ PYO FEI) Lime Kiln Farm (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Rockrose Equestrian Sports Centre (P-GP/ PYO FEI) The Grange Equestrian Centre (P-PSG)+FS Burrows Court Farm (P-AM) Kennaa Equestrian Centre (I-AM) Aike Grange Stud (I-AM)+FS Fairoak Grange Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) Chard Equestrian Ltd (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Dressage at Hascombe (P-GP)

Hampshire Warwickshire Essex Worcestershire Norfolk East Lothian Devon Gloucestershire Isle of Man East Riding of Yorkshire Berkshire Somerset East Sussex

SUN 8 NOV Muirmill Equestrian Centre (I-AM) East Ayrshire Northallerton Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO North Yorkshire FEI)+FS+PE+PEFS Little Mill Equestrian (P-PSG)+FS+PE+PEFS Carmarthenshire Blackdyke Farm (P-M) Cumbria Bold Heath Equestrian Centre (I-GP) Cheshire Vale View Equestrian (I-GP/PYO FEI) Leicestershire Cherwell Competition Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Oxfordshire Sunnybank Farm (I-M) Caerphilly Prestige Equestrian LLP (P-GP/PYO FEI) Gloucestershire Ladyleys Equestrian (P-AM)+FS Aberdeenshire Mullacott Event Centre (P-AM) Devon Stretcholt Farm (P-PSG)+FS Somerset MON 9 - TUE 10 NOV Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre (I-AM)+FS

Cheshire

TUE 10 NOV Arena UK (P-AM)+FS Lower Stocklands Farm (P-M) Widmer Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Swn y Mor (P-AM)+PE

Lincolnshire Cardiff Buckinghamshire Gwynedd

WED 11 NOV Port Royal Equestrian & Exhibition Centre (P-INTI)+FS West Park Equestrian Services (P-AM)+FS Myerscough College (P-E) Speedgate Events (P-AM)

East Riding of Yorkshire Durham Lancashire Kent

THU 12 NOV Pickering Grange Equestrian (I-GP/PYO Leicestershire FEI)+FS Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Warwickshire West Wilts Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Wiltshire FRI 13 NOV Stourport Riding Centre (E-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Moreton EC (P-PSG)+FS

Worcestershire Dorset

SAT 14 NOV Bishop Burton College (I-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Lluest Equine Centre (P-AM)+FS

East Riding of Yorkshire Ceredigion

Moreton Morrell (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Merrist Wood College (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Forest Edge Arena (P-GP/PYO FEI) Duchy College (I-PSG)+PE Bicton College (I-PSG) Aster Academy Dressage (P-GP/PYO FEI) Kingswood Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Codham Park Equestrian (P-AM) Foxes (I-M) Sparsholt College (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Moreton EC (P-M) Burrows Court Farm (E-GP/PYO FEI) GDG@The Cabin Equestrian Riding Club (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Moor Farm Equestrian Centre (P-E)

Warwickshire Surrey Norfolk Cornwall Devon Kent Staffordshire Essex Cheshire Hampshire Dorset Gloucestershire Aberdeenshire Pembrokeshire

SAT 14 - SUN 15 NOV Scottish National Equestrian Centre (I-AM)+PE Hartpury University and Hartpury College (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

West Lothian Gloucestershire

SUN 15 NOV Kings Sedgemoor Equestrian Centre (P-GP/ PYO FEi)+FS Cockshot (P-GP/PYO FEI) Kingston Maurward College (P-INTI)+FS Stourport Riding Centre (P-E)+FS Radfords Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Wellington Riding (P-E)+FS Greenlands Arenas (I-AM) West Park Equestrian Services (I-AM) Bridgend College (P-M) Field House Equestrian Centre (P-INTI)+FS West Kype Farm (P-E) Vale View Equestrian (I-GP/PYO FEI) Mundole Equestrian (I-AM)

Somerset Cheshire Dorset Worcestershire Powys Hampshire Cumbria Durham Bridgend Staffordshire South Lanarkshire Leicestershire Moray

MON 16 NOV Bury Farm Equestrian Village (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Wellington Riding (M-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

Buckinghamshire Hampshire

TUE 17 NOV Caron Roberts Equestrian (P-AM) Felbridge Showground (P-GP/PYO FEI) Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

Wiltshire West Sussex Warwickshire

WED 18 NOV Northallerton Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS+PE+PEFS Topthorn Arena (P-M) Essendon @ Radley Green (P-INTI)+PE Vale View Equestrian (I-GP/PYO FEI) Crofton Manor Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Hunters Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)

North Yorkshire Suffolk Essex Leicestershire Hampshire Gloucestershire

THU 19 NOV Solihull Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+PE+PEFS

West Midlands

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Diary Dates.

Brantridge Park Stud (P-GP)

West Sussex

FRI 20 NOV Allens Hill Competition & Livery Centre (P-AM) Worcestershire Arley Moss (P-INTI)+FS Cheshire Lake Farm (I-PSG) Isle of Wight Lime Kiln Farm (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Norfolk Coleg Sir Gar Equine Department (I-AM) Carmarthenshire SAT 21 NOV The Croft Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Colraine Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Morris Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Bluegate Hall Farm (P-E) Boyton Hall EC (P-M)+FS Pickering Grange Equestrian (I-AM)+FS Windmill Farm Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Moulton College Equestrian Centre (I-AM)+FS+PE+PEFS The College Of West Anglia (P-AM) Chard Equestrian Ltd (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Burrows Court Farm (P-M) Brook Farm Training Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Broads Equestrian Centre (P-AM)

Berkshire Cornwall East Ayrshire Essex Suffolk Leicestershire Buckinghamshire Northamptonshire Cambridgeshire Somerset Gloucestershire Essex Suffolk

SAT 21 - SUN 22 NOV Manor Grange Stud (I-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Swallowfield Equestrian (P-AM)+FS Myerscough College (P-AM)+FS Bogenraith Equestrian (P-PSG)+FS Alnwick Ford Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

West Yorkshire Warwickshire Lancashire Aberdeenshire Northumberland

SUN 22 NOV Golden Cross Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Myerscough College PE Elms Farm Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Hargate Arena (I-E)+FS Chapelton Equestrian Centre (I-AM) Speedgate Events (P-INTI)+FS Bromyard Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Reaseheath College (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS RDA Unicorn Centre (P-N)

East Sussex Lancashire Lincolnshire Derbyshire Highland Kent Herefordshire Cheshire Cleveland

TUE 24 NOV Manor Grange Stud (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Forest Edge Arena (P-GP/PYO FEI)

West Yorkshire Norfolk

WED 25 NOV Holmside Hall Equestrian (I-AM)+FS Quob Stables (P-AM) Moreton Morrell (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS+PE+PEFS Aster Academy Dressage (P-GP/PYO FEI) Aike Grange Stud (I-AM)+FS

Durham Hampshire Warwickshire Kent East Riding of Yorkshire

THU 26 NOV West Wilts Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

Wiltshire

Lincolnshire

FRI 27 NOV

13 – 15 NOVEMBER Arena UK

The finale of the Quest season, where individual combinations will go head-to-head in each My Quest section, alongside the Team Quest teams battling it out to be crowned 2026 Champions. You can watch all the action from Arena UK on Horse & Country where the Championships will be live streamed across the three days. Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Beechwood Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

Warwickshire Essex

Netherton Equestrian (P-PSG)+FS

Perthshire and Kinross

SAT 28 NOV Lower Stocklands Farm (P-M) Amersham Dressage (P-E)+FS Breach Barn (P-AM)+FS Sparsholt College (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS+PE+PEFS Pachesham Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS The Grange Equestrian Centre (P-PSG)+FS Greenfields of Avondale (I-E) Hartpury University and Hartpury College (P-AM)

Cardiff Buckinghamshire Kent Hampshire Surrey Devon South Lanarkshire Gloucestershire

SAT 28 - SUN 29 NOV Port Royal Equestrian & Exhibition Centre (P-INTI)+FS Tillyoch Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS

East Riding of Yorkshire Aberdeenshire

SUN 29 NOV Holmside Hall Equestrian (I-AM)+FS Kings Sedgemoor Equestrian Centre (I-M) Newbold Verdon Equestrian Centre (I-AM) Yorkshire Dressage (P-GP/PYO FEI) Foxes (I-M) Hunters Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI) Coleg Gwent Usk (I-AM) Ian Stark Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Fenning Farm (P-AM)

Durham Somerset Leicestershire South Yorkshire Cheshire Gloucestershire Monmouthshire Borders Cambridgeshire

TUE 1 DEC Manor Grange Stud (I-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Widmer Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Felbridge Showground (P-INTI)

West Yorkshire Buckinghamshire West Sussex

TUE 1 - THU 3 DEC Aintree International Equestrian Centre (P-PSG)+FS

Merseyside

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

Alnwick Ford Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Northumberland Speedgate Events (P-INTI)+FS Kent THU 3 DEC

Pickering Grange Equestrian (I-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Half Moon Stud (P-PSG)

Leicestershire Dorset

THU 3 - SUN 6 DEC

FRI 27 - SAT 28 NOV

WED 2 DEC

THU 26 - SUN 29 NOV Sheepgate Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

QUES T CHAMPIONSHIPS

Arena UK High Profile Show

Lincolnshire

FRI 4 DEC Allens Hill Competition & Livery Centre (P-AM)+PE Moreton EC (P-PSG)+FS Brook Farm Training Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)

Worcestershire Dorset Essex

SAT 5 DEC Quob Stables (P-AM) Weston Lawns Equestrian Centre (P-GP/ PYO FEI) Colraine Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Manor Grange Stud (I-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Kings Sedgemoor Equestrian Centre (P-GP/ PYO FEI) Bluegate Hall Farm (P-E) Saddlesdane Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Bicton College (I-PSG)+FS Allens Hill Competition & Livery Centre (P-GP/ PYO FEI) Beacons Equestrian (P-M) Topthorn Arena (P-M)+FS Greenlands Arenas (I-AM) Ladyleys Equestrian (P-AM)+FS Moreton EC (P-M) Burrows Court Farm (P-M) Reaseheath College (P-GP/PYO FEI)

Hampshire Warwickshire Cornwall West Yorkshire Somerset Essex Kent Devon Worcestershire Carmarthenshire Suffolk Cumbria Aberdeenshire Dorset Gloucestershire Cheshire

SUN 6 DEC Field House Equestrian Centre (P-INTI)+FS Staffordshire Yorkshire Riding Centre (P-M) North Yorkshire Sunnybank Farm (I-M) Caerphilly Cockshot (P-GP/PYO FEI) Cheshire Golden Cross Equestrian Centre (P-AM) East Sussex Mendip Plains Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Somerset Radfords Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Powys Vale View Equestrian (I-GP/PYO FEI) Leicestershire Foxes (I-E) Cheshire Hunters Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI) Gloucestershire Cherwell Competition Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Oxfordshire Brook Farm Training Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Essex Solihull Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS West Midlands

Diary Dates.

The College Of West Anglia (P-E) Mullacott Event Centre (P-AM) Highfield at Howe (P-AM)

Cambridgeshire Devon Fife

SUN 6 - MON 7 DEC Bury Farm Equestrian Village (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

Buckinghamshire

Norfolk Leicestershire Warwickshire Herefordshire Gloucestershire

WED 9 DEC Port Royal Equestrian & Exhibition Centre (P-AM)+FS Morris Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Crofton Manor Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Burrows Court Farm (E-GP/PYO FEI)

SUN 13 DEC

West Sussex

FRI 11 DEC

Bishop Burton College (I-GP/PYO FEI)+FS

Stourport Riding Centre (E-GP/PYO FEI)

Worcestershire

Northallerton Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS+PE+PEFS Kingston Maurward College (P-INTI)+FS Yorkshire Dressage (I-GP/PYO FEI) Fenning Farm (P-AM) Blackdyke Farm (P-M) Moor Farm Equestrian Centre (P-E) Stourport Riding Centre (P-E) Bold Heath Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI) Hargate Arena (I-E)+FS Speedgate Events (P-AM)+FS Hartpury University and Hartpury College (P-AM)

SAT 12 DEC

TUE 8 DEC Forest Edge Arena (P-GP/PYO FEI) Newbold Verdon Equestrian Centre (P-GP/ PYO FEI) Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre (P-GP/PYO FEI)+FS Bromyard Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI) Hunters Equestrian (P-GP/PYO FEI)

Brantridge Park Stud (P-GP)

East Riding of Yorkshire East Ayrshire Hampshire Gloucestershire

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01799 542 137 | sales@kylixuk.co.uk BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

ACJ-BritDressage-92.5x116.indd 1

26/01/2021 18:48

My dressage life Clive Halsall.

MY DRESSAGE

LIFE

CLIVE HALSALL Lancashire-based FEI Level 4 judge and former Grand Prix rider Clive Halsall was a

ALL HANDS ON DECK …

BES T PART OF THE JOB …

I was the judge at C for the grand prix and just before the first rider came in our technical delegate, Vincenzo Truppa, turned to me and said, “I’m going to launch the ship,” dead serious, and then: “Now you ring the bell, and then you steer the ship.” And that was how it felt – I was effectively captaining a ship for two days, just navigating whatever icebergs came my way.

I loved the Judges’ Supervisory Panel (JSP) meetings – run by Andrew Gardner. Nobody there is telling you how to judge, they just make you think. Did you go high enough on that walk? Low enough on that piaffe? Did you miss something because the horse reacted to the crowd? We went through the statistics, which came back with acceptable differences, not huge ones, which felt like real vindication after two days of split-second calls.

BES T A ACHEN PERFORMANCE …

panel at this spectacular event.

Lottie Fry and Glamourdale’s special was amazing – a special Special. It came right down to the wire, back and forth the whole way, deciding between 8.5s, 9s, and tens at championships – that’s what you want to be doing as a judge.

HOW I GOT IN TO JUDGING …

HARDES T PART OF THE JOB …

When I left school, I went to work for Sarah Whitmore, and she was the one who got me started – she always believed that if you ride a test, you should see it from the judge’s side, because the points come from how it looks, not how it feels. I started judging Pony Club and Riding Club shows at 18 or 19. It gave me such a good grounding.

The heat. The sun on us the whole time, we had the blinds down as far as we could get them, and a fan pinned to the back of my scribe’s chair. We had a long break built into the middle of the day, and I went straight back to the hotel for the air conditioning. I’d rather be too hot than too cold, but that was something else.

part of the judging panel at this year’s FEI World Championships in Aachen. Having worked his way through from groom, to rider, to judge; Clive reminisces on the path that had led him to be a member of the judging

THE MENTOR I OWE IT ALL TO…

Stephen Clarke is the reason I ever went beyond national judging. He pushed me to put my name forward for international qualifications, and I picked up my three-star badge in 2012, then my four-star two years later. Everything I know about this job traces back to him. FULL CIRCLE MOMENT IN A ACHEN …

My first trip to Aachen was in 1993, as a groom for Christine Stückelberger. My second was 2019, judging the CDIO. The World Championships were my third trip – and something about being back in that stadium did feel like a full-circle moment. 90

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

HOW I SWITCH OFF…

Two weeks flat out at home on the farm – gardening, painting. My colleagues from Aachen were sending pictures from holidays in Italy and Portugal, swimming pools and all that. I sent them one of me up a ladder painting the indoor school door. That was my break – and I loved it. ADVICE FOR ANYONE S TARTING OUT…

Go and judge for yourself – especially if you’re the sort who’s critical of the judging you see. It’s the fastest way to understand it.

BRITISH DRESSAGE Issue 5 2026

OLDENBURGER AUCTION

Sporthorses

Elite foals

OLDENBURGER

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AUCTION

1 0 6 TH ELITE AUCTION Vechta, October 3, 2026 Information: oldenburger-pferde.com 92 BRITISHPferde DRESSAGE IssueVechta 5 2026 | Grafenhorststr. 5 | D-49377 Vechta | Tel.: +49 (0)4441 9355-12 | oldenburger-pferde.com Oldenburger Zentrum