One of the greatest honours for an up-and-coming young rider is being invited to perform the guinea pig dressage test at MARS Badminton Horse Trials, so that the three judges can get their eye in before the first competitor enters the arena.This years Ground Jury consists of Xavier le Source (FRA) at C, Nick Burton (GBR) at H and Robert Stevenson (USA) at B, and first to ride up the centre line in front of them at 8.30am tomorrow will be Izzy White on her own 12-year-old Icarus.East Midlands-based Izzy, 26, finished third at Bramham last year with Icarus and the combination tackled its first five-star at Pau. She also has several young horses progressing through the grades and showjumps up to 1.40m.Im quite excited, and a little bit nervous, Izzy admitted. Its a really good opportunity for me and Icarus to see the arena and a real honour to have been invited to do it. He finds dressage quite tricky but is gradually getting more established with the movements. Its now a case of putting it all together we are only just moving up to the level.Luckily he quite likes people watching him hes a bit of a showman, so hopefully we will both enjoy it.Kirsty Chabert has been drawn as pathfinder on Classic VI, due into the arena at 9am as the first in a field of 83 combinations.All the action will be streamed live by ClipMyHorse.tv. A 2025 Badminton Season Pass, costing 20, is available to buy via this website. John Kyle and Nicola Wilson will be heading up the Badminton TV commentary, expert analysis and comment alongside invited guests.

Eighty-six horses were presented at the first horse inspection of the MARS Badminton Horse Trials, trotting up in front of the Ground Jury Xavier le Source (President, FRA), Nick Burton (GBR) and Robert Stevenson (USA) and veterinary panel.Many were very fresh, proving to be double handfuls for their jockeys, but all were positively gleaming in the afternoon sunshine. Eighty-three were accepted to go forwards to the dressage phase; unfortunately Shadow Man (Ben Hobday) was withdrawn from the holding box and both Viens du Mont (Luc Chateau) and Spano de Nazca (Georgia Bartlett) were not accepted.As usual, the event was something of a fashion show. Japanese Olympic bronze medallist Ryuzo Kitajima stood out in particular, with his traditional national dress, while Austrian rider Harald Ambros was sporting lederhosen. Harry Meade was uncharacteristically subdued in a pale blue suit, a huge contrast to his usual luminous trousers, and there were plenty of floaty dresses and cowboy boots.The Hiho Silver best dressed awards went to Ryuzo Kitajima and Ros Canter Ros wearing a long, floaty pink skirt and beaded denim jacket which she bought while on holiday with her friend and trainer, the late Caroline Moore.

Katy Lawrence, riding Cheyenne Balloon, was crowned the winner of the BE100 section of the LeMieux Grassroots Championships at MARS Badminton Horse Trials after adding no further penalties to her dressage score of 25.9.Katy, a freelance BHS coach, has been riding the 14-year-old bay mare, who was given to her, for three years. She can either be very relaxed and chilled or can get quite het-up, but she has gone from strength to strength. This is beyond anything I dreamed of its a lovely feeling.Maisie Morgan finished second, just 0.2 penalties in arrears, on the nine-year-old grey Bright Rinco, and the dressage leaders, Jane Rogers and Corrieview Merlin Magic, took third place after one showjumping rail down. Jane, 60, from Devon, bred the 18-year-old palomino gelding; they were runners-up in 2023.The LeMieux Grassroots Championship offers a golden opportunity for novice and amateur riders to compete on the hallowed ground of Badminton and it attracted more than 180 entries across the two sections.The BE90 victor was Emily Proud riding HSF Lobo Royale, a handsome nine-year-old grey gelding who has a dual career as a working hunter and was qualified for HOYS this was only his third horse trials, having qualified with a win at Little Downham.I was quite nervous and felt under pressure because he had won his qualifier so well, said Emily, who works as an NHS physiotherapist and backed the horse herself when he was a three-year-old. Ive always wanted to ride here and it was an amazing feeling galloping up Worcester Avenue on the cross-country.Charlotte Cordy-Redden finished runner-up on Cadilac Jack and Susan Bill was third on Unnamed.Tomorrow sees the start of the MARS Badminton Horse Trials CCI5*-L. Dressage commences at 9am with Britains Kirsty Chabert and Classic Vl first of the 83 starters into the arena.Photo: Katy Lawrence riding Cheyenne Balloon, BE100 winners

Parc All The Hype, ridden by Kitty King and owned by her husband Ben, won the four-year-old Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse class at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials. The 16.2hh bay gelding by Hype posted the highest jumping score of the 29 combinations, gained equal top marks for his gallop and 19 out of 20 for type.New Zealander James Avery riding Chris Makins Doonaveeragh Two O One led the dressage, but was pushed down into the runner-up spot by less than a penalty. Rockerfeller and Michael Jackson completed the top three, just 0.2 of a penalty off the pace.The five-year-old honours went to Harry Horgan riding his own bay mare HHE Pretty Lady. Solid scores across the board put them on 85.6, 0.6 ahead of another Chris Makin-owned horse, Greannanstown Sarahs Lady ridden by Holly Woodhead.There was another third-place finish for Michael Jackson, this time partnering The Chosen One, a gelding by Caliber Royal.The aim of the Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse Series is to encourage riders, trainers and breeders to produce the type of young horse with the physical and mental potential to develop into a world-class event horse. The final will take place at Burghley on September 6.

An NHS physiotherapist riding a home-produced gelding whom she purchased as a three-year-old rode away with the spoils in the BE90 LeMieux Badminton Grassroots Championships today (7 May).Its always been a dream to come to Badminton so to be here and winning the grassroots is just amazing. Maybe one day Ill make it to the five star its every little girls dream, isnt it? Im ever hopeful, said Emily Proud, who piloted the nine-year-old Irish Sports Horse HSF Lobo Royale to victory.Emily bought the horse as a three-year-old from Horan Stud Farm in Ireland and has backed and produced him herself.Ive done all the work with him so weve got quite a partnership together but its a miracle when it all three disciplines comes together on the same day. Lucky for me that happened today, added Emily.Hes only done four events before now so I didnt know what to expect when we went out on the cross-country. I think because weve done everything together weve got that trust and every question that he was asked he responded.View a clip from Emilys winning cross-country round below:Emily Proud on the cross-country courseI seriously cant believe itRunner-up Charlotte Cordy-ReddenThe Somerset-based pair, who finished fourth in the Working Hunter Final at the Horse of the Year Show in 2023, added nothing to their dressage score of 28.4 to finish 0.6 of a penalty ahead of Charlotte Cordy-Redden riding Cadilac Jack, an 11-year-old gelding.I did this 15 years ago when they first invented it and Im terribly honoured to be doing it [Badminton Grassroots] again, said Charlotte. It was great fun and I cant believe the horse went round and I came second. I seriously cant believe it. I was on the buckleSusan Bill finishes thirdSusan Bill finished third with Unnamed, a nine-year-old Irish mare who she has been riding for three years, on a score of 29.1. The pair compete at medium level in dressage as well as event.Shes the feistiest thing Ive ever sat on. Coming through the water, I was on the buckle and she just goes. Shes dead straight and brave as a lion. Shes lovely, said Susan, who works in IT for a software company.This result is a fairy tale. Its been amazing and I think for everybody, no matter how you do, its just a fantastic experience. Its a way for people like me to end up at their absolute dream event and ride on the turf at Badminton.Harvey Crocker and The Night Traveller, an 18-year-old Irish gelding were fourth, ahead of Joanne Monkman who piloted G Damascus, a 14-year-old Dutch mare, into fifth. Meanwhile Mae Jackson on the 13-year-old mare Sweet Riot occupied sixth.View the full resultsReport from the BE100 LeMieux Badminton Grassroots Championships is to followImages by Tim WilkinsonRelated contentHow to watch Mars Badminton Horse Trials 2025A US rider tops the FEI eventing rankings for first time in 21 yearsBadminton app is relaunched with new interactive featuresLeMieux unveils exclusive Badminton collection in cherry pinkThe post Proud moment for physiotherapist crowned BE90 champion at Badminton appeared first on Your Horse.

Katy Lawrence and Cheyenne Balloon (pictured above) were left celebrating a narrow victory at the LeMieux Badminton Grassroots Championships, securing the top spot in the BE100 by 0.2 of a penalty from wildcard entrants Maisie Morgan and Bright Rinco.This victory feels so surreal right now, but its a massive dream come true. Im thrilled to pieces. This is what dreams are made of. A result like this makes all the hard winter days worthwhile, said Katy.It was a first appearance at Badminton for Katy and the 14-year-old British-bred mare who qualified at Blindley Heath which is just around the corner from where they live in Surrey last summer.She is a quirky character, but when she tries, she really tries. Im very lucky and we seem to have a very good partnership, added Katy. I have to be very vocal with her and talk to her lots and try and keep her calm but she was magic today. I couldnt be more thrilled.Feeling apprehensiveKaty confessed that she walked the cross-country course four times in total.Every time I walked it again, I thought it looked a little bit bigger so I was apprehensive, she said. It had a lot of questions and the undulations made it a little bit more to think about but I loved every minute of it.Katy, who is a freelance rider and BHS accredited coach, had various members of her family on hand to support her, including her two daughters.I kicked the whole way roundMaisie Morgan finishes secondRunner-up Maisie Morgan has owned Bright Rinco, a nine-year-old Dutch gelding, since he was two.Hes bred to do dressage so he moves really well. Hes always been fine at jumping cross-country, but hes not the best at galloping so I knew the cross-country today was going to be tough, said Maisie. I kicked literally the whole way round by the time I finished I dont think I could breathe, but we made it and he was super. Maisie runs a livery yard in Kent with her mum.Back from a broken pelvisJane Rogers claims third placeBadminton grassroots regulars Jane Rogers and Corrieview Merlin Magic leaders after Thursdays dressage tests finished third.Corrieview Merlin Magic is an 18-year-old British-bred gelding. He has contested these championships with Jane every year it has taken place since 2017.The pair finished second here two years ago but didnt enjoy a smooth preparation this time after Jane broke her pelvis in a fall in January.Its been a mad panic to get myself fit enough to be able to ride here because I had a vertigo problem as well due to the fall so I couldnt keep myself fit while I was recovering, explained Jane.I started riding again in the second week of March but I couldnt sit for very long. Hes only had one event this year but I actually think that worked better for him as he was sharper.The East Devon-based riders success also finished ninth in the BE90 final aboard Corrieview Oscar.In the final BE100 standings, Rose Reid piloted the 13-year-old gelding Surefly Landarco into fourth, just ahead of Philippa Hendry aboard Flyer Des Coupeaux. Emma Savage and Mummys Dream rounded out the top six.View the full resultsImages by Tim WilkinsonRelated contentProud moment for NHS physiotherapist crowned BE90 champion at BadmintonHow to watch Mars Badminton Horse Trials 2025Badminton app is relaunched with new interactive featuresLeMieux unveils exclusive Badminton collection in cherry pinkThe post Quirky mare carries freelance rider to a narrow victory in the BE100 final at Badminton appeared first on Your Horse.

World Horse Welfare is encouraging spectators at this weeks Mars Badminton Horse Trials to visit the charitys stand and make use of its new weight management resources.The new practical #FeelForFat materials, which include alife-like equine model named Freddie,have been designed in response to feedback about the realities faced when fat scoring horses.The new resources were developed following a survey which was carried out by staff at the charity. As a reaction to the results, the charity have simplified the fat scoring process by splitting the body into three areas: neck and shoulder, back and barrel and the hindquarters.Equine obesity is one of the biggest welfare issues facing horses today which is why Your Horse launched its #FitNotFat campaign and being overweight poses a serious threat to horse health.Feel more confidentEquine weight management can be a sensitive issue, fraught with worries about associated health risks,said Sam Chubbock, Head of UK Support at World Horse Welfare.Our new #FeelForFatresources are aimed at helping horse owners to feel more confident in assessing their horses weight. They reflect feedback from some recent fat scoring surveys and workshops which suggested making the process clearer.As well as being expensive and incredibly challenging for horse owners to deal with, long-term illnesses like EMS and laminitis can cause pain and discomfort to the horses suffering from them,continued Sam.This is why, alongside our fat scoring resources, we are offering practical advice to horse owners about steps they can take to help manage their horses weight.We cant wait to meet this years visitors to Badminton and support them on their equine weight management journeys. Look out for our distinctive, life-like model horse Freddie and be prepared to get hands-on and #FeelForFat.World Horse Welfares stand at Badminton can be found at 92 Beaufort Way.Have you heard about Your Horses#FitNotFatcampaign? Equine obesity is an enormous welfare problem and were on a mission to provide owners and riders with the knowledge, skills and information you need to keep your horse in tip-top health. It could be life saving!Main image Your Horse Library/Kelsey Media LtdRelated contentHow to watch MARS Badminton Horse Trials 2025How to ride a horse so that they burn more caloriesOwner whose obese ponies lost 340kg between them speaks outThe science behind dieting: how much does a horse really eat?The post Horse owners invited to #FeelForFat at Badminton appeared first on Your Horse.

It will come as no surprise to learn that Equiratings, the Irish statistics company, makes the reigning European champions Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo favourites to lift this years MARS Badminton Horse Trials trophy and first prize of 117,600.However, the multiple deciding factors and uncertainties that make up the fascinating three-phase sport of eventing are reflected in the fact that the 2023 winners and Olympic gold medallists are only 36% likely to win, according to Equiratings calculations. The 2024 Burghley victors have a 55% chance of finishing in the top three and a 73% chance of being in the top 10.Ross Paris team mates Tom McEwen and JL Dublin, twice runners-up at Kentucky, are the second favourites, at 14%, 29% and 47% respectively.Next comes Emily King and Valmy Biats, New Zealand combination Tim Price and Vitali, the Burghley runners-up, and Gemma Stevens with Jalapeno.Oliver Townends two greys, the great five-star veteran Ballaghmor Class, a dual winner of Burghley, and the lovely mare Cooley Rosalent, winner of Kentucky last year, are obviously in the frame and all eyes will be on the MARS Badminton debut of world champion Yasmin Ingham, riding Rehy DJ.Bubby Upton, who made such a heroic return from injury last year, and Cola, plus Gemma Stevens with Chilli Knight make up Equiratings top 10. Both Gemmas rides are by the 2015 winning stallion, Chilli Morning (ridden by William Fox-Pitt).This years star-studded field includes seven five-star winning combinations: the defending champions Caroline Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier, Oliver Townends two horses, Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo, Gemma Stevens and Chilli Knight, winners of Bicton CCI5*-L in 2021, Belgiums Lara De Liedekerke-Meier and Hooney dArville, who triumphed at Luhmuhlen last year and Irelands Austin O Connor and Colorado Blue (Maryland, 2023).Four more riders have tasted CCI5*-L victory on different horses: Tim and Jonelle Price, Felix Vogg and Laura Collett.Ryuzo Kitajima, a member of the first Japanese team to win an Olympic medal, bronze, is competing at Badminton for the first time, with Feroza Nieuwmoed.The youngest rider is first-timer Tom Woodward, 23, and the oldest is Kiwi Olympian Joe Meyer, 54, who returns to Badminton for the first time in 15 years.Fifteen nations are represented: Great Britain, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Lithuania, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland and USA.Seven of the top 10 in the FEI World Rankings are competing here: Tom McEwen (world number 2), Harry Meade (3), Tim Price (4), Ros Canter (5), Laura Collett (7), Felix Vogg (9) and Lara De Liedekerke-Meier (10).Photo: Ros Canter, winner of the Hiho Silver Best Dressed Lady award at yesterdays first Horse Inspection, presenting Lordships Graffalo

Category Details First Aid Kit Includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, cooling gels for emergencies or minor injuries. Leading and Tying Equipment Spare halter and lead rope for leading and securing horse during stops. Tying Points and Restraints Use stable tie-ups or safety nets and cross ties for security during transit. Water and Feed Containers Bring 5-gallon water buckets or a large tub, plus a grain tub or hay net. Comfort and Safety Items Include blankets, sheets, fly mask, or fly spray for weather and insect protection. Tools and Equipment Basic toolkit, spare tire, and car tools for repairs and roadside issues. Documentation and Emergency Contacts Keep veterinary records, insurance documents, and emergency contacts available. Plan Your Route Research for horse-friendly stops and use a map or GPS to avoid issues. Prepare Your Horse Acclimate horse to the box with gradual introduction and short trips. Check the Weather Use weather forecasts to choose appropriate blankets or protective gear. Regular Maintenance Inspect tires, brakes, and lights regularly for safe operation. Essentials and Tips for Outfitting Your New Horsebox: A Guide for First-Time Owners IntroductionCongratulations on taking the exciting step of purchasing your first horsebox. Outfitting your horsebox with the right equipment is crucial for both the safety and comfort of your horse during transport. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a first-time owner, understanding what essentials to include can make a significant difference in your journey. In this guide, we'll cover the must-have items and provide valuable tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your horse.Essential Horsebox Supplies1. First Aid KitA first aid kit is an essential item in any horsebox. It should include basic medical supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and cooling gels. Knowing what to include can help in case of emergencies or minor injuries during transport[1]. 2. Leading and Tying EquipmentInclude a spare halter and lead rope in your horsebox. These are indispensable for leading and securing your horse while loading, unloading, or during stops[1][4].3. Tying Points and RestraintsEnsure you have stable tie-ups or safety nets to keep your horse secure inside the box. Cross ties or rope extensions can be useful for preventing movement during the journey.4. Water and Feed ContainersBring a few 5-gallon water buckets or a large water tub as part of your horsebox essentials. For feeding, consider a grain tub or hay net to provide your horse with food and water during long trips[2][4]. 5. Comfort and Safety Items Blankets or Sheets: Depending on the weather, having extra blankets for your horse can keep them warm or cool during transport[2]. Fly Gear: If you're traveling to areas with flies, consider bringing a fly mask or fly spray to protect your horse[2].6. Tools and EquipmentA basic toolkit with a wrench, pliers, and screwdriver can be handy for minor repairs. Don't forget to include a spare tire and essential car tools for any roadside issues.7. Documentation and Emergency ContactsKeep a file of your horse's veterinary records, insurance documents, and emergency contact information in the horsebox. This can be crucial in case of an emergency.Tips for a Smooth Journey 1. Plan Your RouteResearch your route beforehand to avoid busy roads and identify horse-friendly stops for breaks. Ensure you have a map or GPS device in case of network issues.2. Prepare Your HorseAcclimate your horse to the horsebox by gradually introducing them to the environment. Start with short trips to build their confidence and comfort.3. Check the WeatherAlways check the weather forecast for your destination. This can help you decide what type of blankets or protective gear to bring.4. Regular MaintenanceRegularly inspect and maintain your horsebox, checking the tires, brakes, and interior for any wear and tear. Ensure all lights and signs are working properly.ConclusionOutfitting your horsebox with the right equipment and following practical tips can significantly improve the safety and comfort of your horse during transport. Remember, preparation is key to ensuring a successful journey for both you and your horse. By considering these essentials and tips, you'll be well on your way to enjoying hassle-free horse transport.Further Resources Horse and Hound Forum: Horsebox Essentials Riding Warehouse: Equine Essentials Farm House Tack: Buying a Horse ChecklistFor more information on equestrian supplies, visit our Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, Horse Riding Gloves Collection, Horse Riding Socks Collection, and Horse Treats And Gifts. You might also be interested in our Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements, Stable Rugs, Turnout Rugs, and Horse Fly Protection.

Whatever happens this weekend, Oliver Townend and the multiple five-star winner Ballaghmor Class, who is now 18, will go down in history as one of great combinations in eventing history. The combination was second to go in the dressage at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials this morning, scoring 29.3.Oliver pronounced himself satisfied, saying: Theres going to be enough to sort us out on the cross-country at 11 minutes 40 seconds.I know everyone says it, but his work at home is amazing hes unreal and still improving. He feels better than ever.Bred by Noel Hickey in Co Limerick, Ireland, Ballaghmor Class, owned by Angela Hislop, Val and Peter Ryan and Karen Shuter, is by the Holsteiner Courage II out of the ISH mare Kilderry Place. In his youth, Oliver described the grey gelding as sharp a horse who regularly deposited his riders on the floor. He started his affiliated career at the end of the 2012 season at BE100 level.Thomas won his first ever five-star, Burghley, in 2017 at the age of 10, and has won three more (Kentucky in 2022, Burghley in 2023 and Maryland last year); he has yet to finished out of the top five at the top level, including two runner-up slots at Badminton. In 2021, Oliver and Thomas were pathfinders for the victorious British team at the Tokyo Olympic Games.Its no wonder this horse is regarded so highly by his rider, who has pronounced him my hero and a horse of a lifetime, owners and by commentators across the sport. At the top events, he flourishes and, now 18, looks as good as he ever has done.