Seventy-five years of history come together this weekend as past Badminton winners will attend a special breakfast and photocall in the main arena at 10am on Saturday morning. Jane Holderness-Roddam (nee Bullen) is the longest-standing winner — she triumphed back in 1968 on Our Nobby when working as a student nurse – followed by Richard Walker, who holds the record as the youngest ever winner, aged 18, in 1969 on Pasha. Also present will be record six-time winner Lucinda Green, four-time winners Mark Phillips and Mark Todd, plus triple winners Ginny Elliot, Ian Stark and Pippa Funnell, who has the distinction of competing this year, 22 years after her first victory, on Supreme Rock in 2002. Our Nobby’s cross-country bit, dual winner Richard Meade’s stopwatch and the saddle Lucinda Green used during her debut in 1972 are among the memorabilia on display in the Badminton Horse Trials Museum this weekend. Other former winners in action this weekend are William Fox-Pitt, Jonelle Price, Laura Collett and the defending champion and world number two Ros Canter, who is the top-rated rider in this year’s competition, according to data analysts EquiRatings. Seven of the world’s top 10 ranked event riders will be competing at Badminton — Ros Canter, Boyd Martin (USA), Tom McEwen, Harry Meade, who has three rides entered, Tim Price (NZL), Wills Oakden and Laura Collett — and many more besides with strong chances of making history as the winner of the 75th-anniversary Badminton Horse Trials and receiving the MARS Trophy from HM The Queen on Sunday afternoon. The action starts at 4.30pm this afternoon (Wednesday, May 8) with the First Horse Inspection in front of Badminton House. The Ground Jury comprises Sandy Phillips as President — a former runner-up at Badminton — plus Jane Hamlin from the USA and Christian Steiner from Austria.

Show Jumping Day & Equine Awards NI Rising star SJ & dressage qualifiersClasses for everyone from 30cms to 1M, full range of dressage classes

Stage Signs and Actions Key Considerations Pre-Foaling Signs Udder development, waxing of teats, relaxation of pelvic ligaments, nesting behavior. Monitor closely for physical and behavioral changes as foaling approaches. Preparing for Foaling Set up a clean, quiet foaling area. Assemble a foaling kit. Regular veterinary check-ups. Ensure all necessary supplies and professional support are readily available. Post-Foaling Care Ensure the foal nurses soon after birth. Monitor mare for postpartum complications. Regular vet check-ups. Focus on immediate care and watch for any signs of distress or complications. Managing Complications Address issues like dystocia or retained placenta immediately. Have emergency contacts ready. Be prepared for quick action and have veterinary assistance on call. Nurturing Development Provide a nutrient-rich diet, gentle handling, and early socialization. Support the foal’s growth into a healthy and well-adjusted horse. How to Tell When a Horse is Close to Foaling Foaling, the process of a mare giving birth, is not just an exciting time for horse breeders and owners—it's the equine equivalent of a full-blown maternity ward drama! Knowing when your mare is ready to foal is crucial for ensuring you're as prepared as the best (and most nervous) of expecting parents. Understanding the Signs of Impending Foaling As the anticipated moment draws near, mares undergo several notable changes. Let's break down these signs so you can be on guard and ready to assist, should your mare need you. Physical Changes in the Mare The physical transformation of a mare ready to foal is nothing short of miraculous. One of the most reliable signs that the big day is coming is the development of the udder. If you notice the udder begins to swell and fill with milk, sometimes as early as two to four weeks before the due date, it's nature's way of saying, "Get ready!" Learn more about udder development here. Then there's the phenomenon known as 'waxing' of teats. About 24 to 48 hours before labor, the teats fill and may exude small, waxy droplets. This 'waxing' is a telltale sign that foaling is imminent. Keep an eye out—this is when things start getting real! Behavioral Changes Behavioral shifts in mares can be as telling as the physical ones. A mare nearing labor might start showing nesting behavior, such as pawing at the ground or arranging her bedding. This is akin to watching someone fluff their pillows for the hundredth time, trying to get comfortable before a significant event. Discover more about nesting behaviors. Mares can also become quite restless, frequently changing positions, or even isolating themselves from other horses as D-Day approaches. They might not be posting on social media about their discomfort, but their actions speak volumes! Monitoring and Preparation Wouldn't it be nice if mares could just text us when they're about to foal? Since they can't, we rely on modern technology like mare monitoring systems, which can include sweat and vulva sensors and video monitoring. These tools help us keep an eye on the mare without disturbing her—because let's face it, privacy is appreciated, even by mares! Learn more about monitoring systems here. Lastly, don't overlook changes in the vulva. The mare's vulva will elongate and relax as part of the preparation for birth. It's a natural, albeit less glamorous, part of the process leading up to the arrival of a new foal. Preparing for Foaling As the foaling date approaches, preparation becomes the name of the game. It’s not just about having your camera ready for the first adorable foal photos—it’s about ensuring a safe and smooth delivery. Setting Up the Foaling Area First things first, the foaling area should be ready and waiting. This area should be clean, quiet, and well-bedded to provide comfort and safety for the mare and her upcoming bundle of joy. A recommended size is a 14x14 foot stall, which offers ample space for the mare to move and lie down comfortably. Cornell University’s veterinary guidelines suggest that the area should also be secure and free from hazards that could pose risks to the mare or foal. Essential Supplies for Foaling Next up, assembling a foaling kit is crucial. This should include clean towels, iodine for treating the umbilical stump, a thermometer for monitoring the mare and foal's temperature, and emergency contact numbers for your veterinarian. Being well-prepared can be the difference between a successful foaling and a frantic scramble. It's also a good idea to have quick access to supplements and medications that may be required, as recommended by extension.org. Nutritional support for the mare and foal can be critical, especially in the first few hours post-birth. Veterinary Support and Check-ups Don’t forget about regular veterinary check-ups leading up to the big day. These visits can help identify any potential complications before they become critical emergencies. Rossdales equine hospital emphasizes the importance of professional oversight during this critical period. Monitoring the mare’s health with the help of a vet ensures that both the mare and foal have the best chance at a smooth foaling process and a healthy start in life. Watching for the Right Time The exact timing of foaling can often be a bit of a guessing game, but with careful observation and a bit of luck, you can be present at the crucial moment. The signs of labor are unmistakable, and being there to assist, if necessary, or to ensure everything is going smoothly, can make all the difference. Post-Foaling Care and Managing Common Complications Once the foal has safely arrived, the adventure truly begins. Providing post-foaling care is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of both the mare and her new foal. Immediate Post-Foaling Procedures The first few hours after foaling are critical. Ensure that the foal is breathing properly and that it stands and nurses within the first two hours. This early nursing is essential as it helps the foal ingest colostrum, which is rich in antibodies. According to equine nutrition experts, this early intake is crucial for the foal's immune system. Cleaning and Monitoring the Mare and Foal After the foal has nursed, it’s important to clean and dry both the mare and the foal to prevent any infections. Also, keep an eye on the mare for any signs of postpartum complications such as retained placenta, which should ideally pass within three hours of birth. Comprehensive care guidelines recommend close monitoring during this period. Dealing with Common Foaling Complications Common complications can include dystocia, or difficult labor, and should be addressed immediately with veterinary assistance. Having a plan in place for such emergencies is part of responsible horse ownership. Familiarize yourself with the signs of complications so you can act swiftly. Learn more about managing foaling complications. Regular check-ups with the vet will ensure that both mare and foal are recovering well and receiving the necessary care and nutrition. It’s not just about overcoming the hurdles of birth, but also setting the stage for a healthy life ahead. Nurturing the Foal's Development As the foal grows, its needs will change. Providing a nutrient-rich diet and a safe environment is key. Introducing the foal to gentle handling and socialization early on will also aid in its development into a well-adjusted adult horse. Tips on nurturing a foal's development can be invaluable for first-time breeders. Conclusion From anticipating the signs of foaling to managing the postpartum period, being well-prepared is your best tool. By staying informed, proactive, and ready to act, you ensure a healthy start for the newest addition to your equine family. Remember, the journey of foaling is as rewarding as it is challenging, and every step you take makes a difference in the lives of both the mare and her foal. Asked by You: Common Questions About Foaling What are the signs a mare is near foaling? Signs that a mare is near foaling include the development and waxing of the udder, relaxation of the pelvic ligaments, behavioral changes such as nesting, and restlessness. These signs indicate that the birth process could begin within days. How do you know when a horse is ready to give birth? A horse is ready to give birth when there are clear physical signs such as udder development and the waxing of teats. Behavioral changes, including seeking isolation and showing signs of discomfort, are also indicators that foaling is imminent. How close to foaling do mares bag up? Mares typically "bag up," or develop a fuller udder, as one of the more reliable signs that foaling is near. This can occur two to four weeks before the foaling date, with more significant changes happening closer to the birth. What time of day do horses give birth? Horses, particularly mares, often give birth during the night or early morning hours. This timing is thought to be an evolutionary adaptation to avoid predators and ensure the foal has a quiet, undisturbed environment for birth.

The Voltaire Design Grassroots Championships at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials is a highlight and cherished ambition for many novice and amateur riders who have been competing at qualifiers all over the country for a place in the final at Badminton. The Voltaire Design BE100 Championship was a triumph for osteopath Lucinda Mills (pictured), competing her own Chaconda Blue; the pair added no jumping penalties to their dressage score of 26.8. ‘Who doesn’t want to ride at Badminton,’ she said. ‘I have been coming here as a spectator since I was a kid and to ride in front of big crowds, in the sunshine, with everyone cheering, was something else.’ The runner-up was Niamh Richardson on Cartown Bonny Bell and Victoria O’Brien and Unnamed finished third in a competitive field of 67 starters. The top three in the well supported BE90 Championship, which had more than 100 starters, were from all corners of the UK. Ben Fairbrother, from Stirlingshire in Scotland, the dressage runner-up, rose one place to take the win on his mother Jo’s Upper Limit, finishing just 0.3 of a penalty ahead of Pembrokeshire, Wales-based Dr Katie Matthias on Lodor Carl. Suzanne Ross from Warwickshire was third with Findatie Bracken. Ben, who is studying for a masters in civil engineering at Dundee University, was brought up show jumping, but switched to eventing around three years ago. ‘I’m really enjoying it and you get to come to lovely places like this. We always watch it on television every year, but it is amazing actually to come here.’ Also taking place on the first day of the Horse Trials was the Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse qualifiers. The five-year-old section was won by Dani Evans on Sara Sjoborg Wik’s SHE Rowena Cade, a grey mare by Irco Mena, and the four-year-old class by Andrew James with Toni Wise and Lady Jane Clarendon’s Mr Fury, by War Command.

All the horses that were presented at today’s first horse inspection have been passed by the Ground Jury, Sandy Phillips (President), Jane Hamlin from the USA and Christian Steiner from Austria, to go through to the dressage phase which starts tomorrow. As ever, the horse inspection was something of a fashion show, with Alice Casburn a stand-out for the ladies in her wide-legged leopard-print trousers and short- leeved brown suede jacket, while Harry Meade was resplendent in bright pink trousers winning the Hi Ho Silver best dressed male award. Rosie Bradley-Hole won the ladies award. However, it was French rider Gaspard Maksud (pictured) whose ensemble was particularly memorable – a smart blue suit, pale green shirt and blue and green tie all topped off with a green ‘frog’ beret. Only one horse was sent to the holding box, Huberthus HC – the ride of Australia’s Bill Levett – but was passed on re-presentation. Sadly, Tom McEwen’s ride CHF Cooliser was withdrawn before the inspection; particularly disappointing given that both Tom and his horse share a birthday on Friday. Unusually, there are five 18-year-old horses in the competition: Diamond Sundance (India Wishart GBR), Palm Crescent (Megan O’Donoghue USA), Andreas (Helen Martin GBR), Spana de Nazca (Georgia Bartlett GBR) and Copper Beach (Cosby Green USA). There are also 16 first-time riders, whose progress we will track through the event. Tomorrow is all about dressage. Barnie Brotherton is this year’s ‘guinea pig’ (a rider who performs the dressage test in front of the three judges so they get their eye in). He will kick off the action at 8.40am, with Tom Jackson the first competitor riding Farndon into the arena at 9am. Former rider Nicola Wilson will be joining commentators John Kyle and Nicole Brown on Badminton TV, which will bring all the action to those watching at home.

by Harry Meade. With the 2024 season well and truly underway, it’s great to have the horses back out eventing. Although we don’t start competing until the beginning of March, the run up to the first batch of events is a pretty intense affair. Producing event horses is like squeezing 10 days’ work into a week for every horse – the higher-level horses gallop twice a week, and with dressage and show jumping training, as well as out-of-season competitions for both disciplines, and cross-country schooling whenever the deluges cease, it’s like packing lamps into Marry Poppins’ bag. By training hard, it not only ensures the horses are performing at their best, it also sharpens up the whole team. We took eleven horses cross-country schooling at Larkhill, with each horse jumping twice around the BE cross-country course. With 22 cross-country rounds back-to-back, there is no margin for error – whether it be concentrated focus, my fitness or the logistics of the team producing horse after horse at the right time in the right kit, and importantly always in a calm way; nothing must be rushed but everything must be punctual without raising the horses’ heart rates. Even the sheer logistics of travelling that number of horses, people and kit is a significant feat, as is each simple task, like doing their stud holes – cleaning out, tapping and putting in 88 studs before, and removing them all after and re- plugging the holes. With similar days and numbers of horses going to dressage competitions and show jumping training, where we hire an arena for the day, we brush away the cobwebs, battle through the fatigue, educate the newer members of the crew and gradually remember what it’s like to be a slick, professional and a highly capable team. Having never shied away from storms, snow, failing light, blood, sweat and tears, a hard- earned cohesion and confidence in the team’s abilities binds us together. As the first event marks the dawn of a new season, competing with fewer horses and easier conditions is a comparative walk in the park. As the competitions start, we get the horses back out in the fields – which have been protected and saved during the wettest months for this moment – which is welcome relief to equines and humans, as after the more strenuous work they can now enjoy days off, which lightens the load for all. Years of producing horses from scatty three- or four-year-olds through the grades has paid off as we look forward to a strong hand at each of the major events. The current focus is on Badminton, with entries for Cavalier Crystal, Away Cruising and Red Kite, all of whom we have had from the start of their careers. Annaghmore Valoner and Et Hop du Matz spearhead our Bramham campaign, with each of the younger horses targeting a spring international at the relevant level. And, of course, with four horses currently long-listed for the Paris Olympics, there is all to play for. The post Behind the Scenes with Harry Meade first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.

The current leader is Boyd Martin (Tsetserleg TSF, USA, 29): ‘I am thrilled with the horse – he looked like a champion. We’re in with a chance. I am feeling sick to my stomach about the cross-country though; I’ve only been here once and didn’t finish. But I’m not here just to complete; I want get in and get stuck in.’ Tom Jackson (Farndon, 33.0): ‘I don’t mind being first to go – sometimes you’re better off getting out there. Badminton is big and bold and you’ve just got to get stuck in, and Farndon might just have the advantage with the ground. Although he hasn’t been to Badminton before, he’s got five-star experience and he’s a super-chilled and talented horse. I’m super pleased with his dressage test – it’s the best he’s done.’ Caroline Powell (CBI Aldo, NZ,  35.6): ‘I’m chuffed. It’s always a bit of a gamble bringing a nine-year-old [the youngest horse in the field] but it’s a good step for him. It’s a good experience and he’s a trier. I thought that if I got in the 30s I would be thrilled.’ Tom Rowland (Dreamliner, 34.9): ‘Honestly, I’m gutted. Dreamliner always takes a lot of motivation. But, hey, it’s not going to be a dressage competition and we’ve just got to give it our best on Saturday.” Wills Oakden (Arklow Puissance, 39.4): ‘He’s not an easy horse in the dressage but we hope to make up ground on Saturday. At one stage I was even enjoying it, but some of the rest of the test was a case of damage limitation. But he’s a great horse for me to learn on and it’s better to be here than sitting on the sofa at home.’ Pippa Funnell (Majas Hope, 40.8): ‘That was not the best I was hoping for, very disappointing and not my normal standard. But Majas Hope has been here three times and to Burghley three times and he’s an old horse who has seen it all before and so he’s been wired up ever since he’s been here.’

Mid week Show Jumping LeaguePoints accumulated each week with the best 4 weeks plus final counting towards league placingsCompetitors must compete at 4 out of the first 5 weeks (in the same class) plu...