EquiRatings Eventing Podcast

History was made on the final day at Defender Burghley as Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo defended their title, becoming the first pair ever to complete the “double double” — two Badminton wins and two Burghley wins. With a near 10-penalty margin, Walter showed why he belongs among the sport’s all-time greats. Nicole and Annie take you behind the scenes from a buzzing Burghley media centre, reflecting on Ros’s brilliance, the crowd’s reaction, and the stories that shaped an unforgettable week. From Ziggy running into her mum’s arms to Austin O’Connor’s podium for Ireland and Harry Meade’s incredible trio inside the top 10, this is Burghley magic at its best. Highlights include: Ros Canter & Lordships Graffalo — the historic “double double” Austin O’Connor ends Ireland’s 60-year Burghley podium wait Harry Meade’s rollercoaster week with three horses in the top 10 Sam Watson’s clear on Ballyneety Rocketman and the EquiRatings grind behind the scenes Sam Lissington shines with first-timer Billy Alberto The magic that makes Defender Burghley unlike any other five-star Guests in this episode: Sam Lissington — first-time Burghley rider with Billy Alberto Annie Bishop — Journalist & US Equestrian Open podcast host Want to watch every moment? Subscribe to Burghley TV for exclusive live coverage, replays, and behind-the-scenes access throughout the week. And for the latest updates, follow the Defender Burghley Horse Trials on Instagram at @burghleyhorsetrials. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Follow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast Instagram and Facebook. throughout the week for daily Burghley Diaries, behind-the-scenes access, and all the stories as they unfold at one of eventing’s greatest stages.

Cross-country day at Defender Burghley… what a rollercoaster. Horses were flying, riders were hanging on, and the crowd got the kind of day they came for. The EquiRatings team break down the numbers and what they mean going into the final day. Big climbs, tired legs, and plenty of stories — this was Defender Burghley at its best. Want to watch every moment? Subscribe to Burghley TV for exclusive live coverage, replays, and behind-the-scenes access throughout the week. And for the latest updates, follow the Defender Burghley Horse Trials on Instagram at @burghleyhorsetrials. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Follow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast Instagram and Facebook. throughout the week for daily Burghley Diaries, behind-the-scenes access, and all the stories as they unfold at one of eventing’s greatest stages.  

This bonus episode takes you inside the Eventing Podcast Live from the Insights Stage on Saturday, where Diarm, Annie, Lucy, and Sam broke it all down in front of the Defender Burghley crowd. From the stats to the storylines, it’s the full download on one of the toughest cross-country days we’ve seen in years. Highlights include: Why Ros and Graffalo’s round may go down as one of the greatest ever Clear rate stats that show just how tough Derek di Grazia’s track really was Harry Meade’s three rides and what they tell us about grit at the top level The heartbreak moments for Oliver Townend, David Doel, and Lucy Latta Irish and New Zealand standouts: Austin O’Connor and Tim Price proving class What history says about overnight leaders heading into the final day Guests in this episode: Diarm Byrne — EquiRatings co-founder Annie Bishop — Journalist & US Equestrian Open podcast host Lucy Jackson — Insight Stage host and five-star rider Sam Watson — Five-star rider and EquiRatings co-founder Want to watch every moment? Subscribe to Burghley TV for exclusive live coverage, replays, and behind-the-scenes access throughout the week. And for the latest updates, follow the Defender Burghley Horse Trials on Instagram at @burghleyhorsetrials. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Follow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast Instagram and Facebook. throughout the week for daily Burghley Diaries, behind-the-scenes access, and all the stories as they unfold at one of eventing’s greatest stages.

It’s cross-country morning at Defender Burghley and anticipation is sky-high. Annie, Ali, and Diarm break down the biggest storylines: the challenge of running the track in reverse, which speed horses could beat the time, and how experience may separate the contenders from the rest. With half the field typically falling short of a clear, today is set to be decisive in shaping the winner of Burghley 2025. Episode Chapters: Setting the scene: why Saturday decides Burghley Speed vs. stamina: which type of horse thrives here The “reverse” track and how riders are adapting Course designer Derek di Grazia’s influence on clear rates First horses out - Harry Meade, Austin O’Connor, and early indicators Big names to watch: Tim Price, Cassie Sanger, Lucy Latta, and more Want to watch every moment? Subscribe to Burghley TV for exclusive live coverage, replays, and behind-the-scenes access throughout the week. And for the latest updates, follow the Defender Burghley Horse Trials on Instagram at @burghleyhorsetrials. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Follow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast Instagram and Facebook. throughout the week for daily Burghley Diaries, behind-the-scenes access, and all the stories as they unfold at one of eventing’s greatest stages.

Day 2 of dressage did not dissapoint. Austin O’Connor and Colorado Blue dropped the best Irish test here in 25 years (!!), Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent kept the pressure bubbling, and Harry Meade had the most hairy warm-up disruption before somehow pulling it back together. Ros Canter? Cool as ever, reminding everyone why Walter is Walter. And yes, we’ve got the inside line on tomorrow with Dairy Mound stride debates and Trout Hatchery “what was Derek thinking?” moments. Burghley chaos, Burghley magic. All in a day. Listen to it here. Highlights: Best Irish Burghley dressage in 25 years — how it happened and what it sets up First-Burghley nerves vs. plans: producing a homegrown five-star horse Why tiny warm-up disruptions can cost big in the ring Snaffle switch that paid off, plus real talk on rideability and relaxation Course intel: Dairy Mound stride calls, Trout Hatchery flow, Leaf Pit accuracy, and where the time vanishes Who actually looks fast enough to make it — and who needs Sunday to land it Guests: Austin O’Connor — Olympic medalist for Ireland Cassie Sanger — U.S. five-star debutant Ros Canter — World Champion and defending Burghley winner Oliver Townend — Olympic gold medalist and five-star regular Tim Price — Five-star winner and former World No.1 Sam Lissington — New Zealand five-star rider Emma Thomas — British five-star rider Pete Cattell — Long-time owner and supporter Ali Barrett — EquiRatings team Annie Bishop — journalist & US Equestrian Open podcast host Alex Bragg — British five-star rider Want to watch every moment? Subscribe to Burghley TV for exclusive live coverage, replays, and behind-the-scenes access throughout the week. And for the latest updates, follow the Defender Burghley Horse Trials on Instagram at @burghleyhorsetrials. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Follow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast Instagram and Facebook. throughout the week for daily Burghley Diaries, behind-the-scenes access, and all the stories as they unfold at one of eventing’s greatest stages.  

Day one of dressage is in the books. From the Insight Stage to behind the scenes in the stables, Nicole Brown and the team bring you stories live from Defender Burghley. Piggy March and MCS Maverick set the early pace, David Doel and Galileo Nieuwmoed deliver a personal best, and Alex Bragg and Will Rawlin are close behind. But the leaderboard is only part of the story. You’ll hear Tina Cook on what it really takes to make the time at Burghley, Meigs Rutherford with the groom’s-eye view from Cassie Sanger’s Redfield Fyre, and Insight Stage host Lucy Jackson on what makes the Burghley atmosphere so unique. Plus, the team dig into the reversed track, the Trout Hatchery sting, and why this is shaping up to be one of the toughest Burghleys yet. Highlights include: Piggy March leads after day one with MCS Maverick David Doel and Galileo Nieuwmoed’s personal best Alex Bragg (28.4) and Will Rawlin (28.8) in the hunt Tina Cook on the secrets to making the time Meigs Rutherford’s inside take from the stables The reversed course and why Burghley always finds you out Guests: Tina Cook — Burghley legend with 10 top 10s Lucy Jackson — Insight Stage host Meigs Rutherford — groom to Cassie Sanger’s Redfield Fyre Diarm Byrne & Sam Watson — EquiRatings analysis and context Want to watch every moment? Subscribe to Burghley TV for exclusive live coverage, replays, and behind-the-scenes access throughout the week. And for the latest updates, follow the Defender Burghley Horse Trials on Instagram at @burghleyhorsetrials. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Follow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast Instagram and Facebook. throughout the week for daily Burghley Diaries, behind-the-scenes access, and all the stories as they unfold at one of eventing’s greatest stages.  

The rain has fallen, the stage is set, and Burghley week is officially underway. Live from the Defender Lodge, Nicole Brown sits down with Nick Luck, the face of Burghley TV, to talk storms, storylines, and the thrill of live coverage. From juggling rain-soaked inspections to capturing those unfiltered moments with the sport’s biggest stars, Nick shares what makes Burghley TV unique. With access-all-areas behind the scenes and insight from a world-class commentary team, Burghley TV is ready to bring every stride, stumble, and success straight to your screen. Highlights include: The impact of Burghley’s opening day downpour and how the ground will hold Why live TV delivers moments you’ll never forget What it takes to balance planning with spontaneity on air The evolution of Burghley TV and why it’s now the sport’s gold standard Big names, big questions: Graffalo, Ros, Harry Meade, Oliver Townend, and more Guest: Nick Luck — broadcaster and host of Burghley TV Host: Nicole Brown 🎥 Watch every moment on Burghley TV: exclusive live coverage, replays, and behind-the-scenes access all week.

Burghley week is underway, the rain has fallen, and the stage is set. In the very first Defender Burghley Diary of 2025, Nicole Brown and Annie Bishop soak up the atmosphere on site, from an empty scoreboard waiting to be filled with history to the buzz of the trade stands as the park comes alive. They talk hopes, nerves, and early headlines, including Felix Vogg’s withdrawal, perfect footing predictions, and the pressure on Lordships Graffalo and Ros Canter as defending champions. Plus, Annie reveals her Eventing Manager 2.0 picks, and Nicole checks in with Baileys Horse Feeds, owners, and new Burghley TV team member Tom Stanley. It’s your all-access pass to day one at Defender Burghley. Highlights include: Annie Bishop on her first impressions of Burghley vs. Kentucky The buzz around Graffalo, Rosalent, and Colorado Blue Eventing Manager 2.0: who’s on Annie’s fantasy team Behind the scenes with Baileys Horse Feeds and their long history at Burghley Owner insight from Karen Brooks on J’adore Salsa with Michael Owen Broadcaster Tom Stanley joins the Burghley TV lineup Guests: Annie Bishop — journalist & US Equestrian Open podcast host Jane Buchan — Marketing Manager, Baileys Horse Feeds Karen Brooks — owner of J’adore Salsa Tom Stanley — Racing TV presenter & new Burghley TV team member   Want to watch every moment? Subscribe to Burghley TV for exclusive live coverage, replays, and behind-the-scenes access throughout the week. And for the latest updates, follow the Defender Burghley Horse Trials on Instagram at @burghleyhorsetrials. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Follow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast Instagram and Facebook. throughout the week for daily Burghley Diaries, behind-the-scenes access, and all the stories as they unfold at one of eventing’s greatest stages.

Defender Burghley week is here. The fences are huge, the clock is merciless, and even the favourites can unravel. Burghley is where reputations are made. Nicole Brown is joined by a full house of experts to set the stage for one of the most anticipated five-stars of the season. Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo bid to make history. Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent return to settle unfinished business. Harry Meade brings three chances to finally land his first five-star. Add in Tim Price with Vitali, David Doel with Galileo Nieuwmoed, Austin O’Connor with Colorado Blue, and a host of international challengers, and you’ve got a Burghley that could produce fireworks in every phase. Highlights include: Why Graffalo could cement his place among the all-time greats The challenge of the reversed cross-country track and what it means for stamina Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent: redemption or repeat heartbreak? Harry Meade’s triple attack and the horse most likely to deliver his first five-star win Tim Price and Vitali: brilliance in the dressage, questions on the final day The outsiders who could climb their way into history Guests joining Nicole Brown: Catherine Austen — Burghley Press Officer with insider perspective Annie Bishop — journalist and host of the US Equestrian Open podcast Spike Milligan — equine vet with expert analysis  Diarm Byrne — EquiRatings co-founder with the numbers behind the predictions Want to watch every moment? Subscribe to Burghley TV for exclusive live coverage, replays, and behind-the-scenes access throughout the week. And for the latest updates, follow the Defender Burghley Horse Trials on Instagram at @burghleyhorsetrials. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

In this special show, Nicole Brown is joined by Jesse Campbell and Jo Williams to share the story behind the Georgie Campbell Foundation, created in memory of the much-loved rider who passed away in 2024. The foundation focuses on two core goals: improving safety in the sport of eventing and providing meaningful support to young riders as they build their careers, the kind of opportunities that a young Georgie herself would have found invaluable. From funding frangible devices and supporting safety research to mentoring riders with bespoke competition and business plans, the foundation is determined to turn loss into a lasting legacy. Jesse and Jo explain how the idea came to life, the initiatives already underway, the fundraising efforts, and how the eventing community has rallied behind the cause. They also share details of the first beneficiary programme, open to applications this year, to support the next generation of event riders. Highlights: The vision for the Georgie Campbell Foundation: safety and rider support How Georgie’s values and character are shaping the programme Frangible devices, safety research and rider education Fundraising initiatives, from Hiho Silver’s Twig jewellery, to events at Burghley The first beneficiary programme and how to apply The role of the eventing community in carrying Georgie’s legacy forward Guests: Jesse Campbell, 5* event rider, husband of Georgie Campbell and Co-founder of the Georgie Campbell Foundation Jo Williams, Sister of Georgie Campbell and Co-founder of the Georgie Campbell Foundation Host: Nicole Brown Find out more at: www.georgiecampbellfoundation.org.uk EquiRatings Eventing PodcastFollow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast for more data-led insight, top-tier guests, and everything you need to keep up with the 2025 season on Instagram and Facebook.

Eventing fans, we're so back. Eventing Manager 2.0 is finally here.  Nicole Brown is joined by Diarmuid Byrne, Sam Watson, Ali Barrett, and Annie Bishop to dive into the return of Eventing Manager, EquiRatings’ fantasy eventing game. They look back at how it started, the buzz it created with fans, and what makes now the right time to relaunch. From new features to the excitement around its comeback, the team share the inside story of Eventing Manager’s next chapter. Episode Highlights The original launch of Eventing Manager and how it brought fans closer to the sport. Why EquiRatings have chosen 2025/26 as the moment for a relaunch. What’s new and improved in Eventing Manager 2.0. How the game connects fans, riders, and major competitions. Guests Nicole Brown  Diarm Byrne  Sam Watson  Ali Barrett Annie Bishop Play now at manager.equiratings.com

Two former winners. Two Defender Burghley ambassadors. Two of the best in the sport. In this special Inside Burghley show, Nicole is joined by Tim Price and Piggy March to talk all things Defender Burghley - from VHS tapes in New Zealand to Mary King fan letters, from first-time nerves to winning moments. Burghley is back, and these two know exactly what makes it the holy grail. Episode Highlights Burghley first impressions - Tim’s VHS tapes from New Zealand, Piggy’s childhood obsession with Mary King, and the awe of the Collesmore Leap. First rides & first fears - Piggy’s 21-year-old debut in tears, Pippa Funnell’s pep talk, and Tim’s lessons on what makes a real Burghley horse. The Burghley test - Terrain, time, and the unique stamina questions that make it unlike any other 5*. Winning moments - Tim with Ringwood Skyboy, Piggy with Vanir Kamira, and what it really feels like to walk up Winners’ Avenue. Burghley magic - From iconic fences to unforgettable mishaps (a false tooth mid-lap of honour, a bee down the shirt), Tim and Piggy share the stories that only Burghley can create. Looking ahead to 2025 - Vitaly’s consistency, Piggy’s new ride MCS Maverick, and how the reversed track might shake things up this year. Guests Tim Price  Piggy March  Host Nicole Brown Want more insights, picks, and data-driven takes? Follow @equiratings_eventing on Instagram and Facebook for your ultimate eventing companion.  

The first Scone Palace International Horse Trial promised a lot — and it delivered. Big names, big crowds, and big storylines on Scottish soil. In this review show, Nicole Brown is joined by Event Director & Course Designer Alec Lochore and journalist Catherine Austen to unpack year one at Scone. From behind-the-scenes reflections on building a brand-new international to a full competition debrief, they cover the contenders, the clashes, and the moments that made 2025 unforgettable. From Ros Canter and Izilot DHI going head-to-head with Laura Collett and London 52 in a CCI4*-S showdown, to Jonelle Price making a statement in the CCI4*-L with Capitaine De Hus Z, it was a weekend packed with class, quality, and plenty of future stars. Add in a clean sweep for the women at the top of the podium, nearly 30,000 spectators, and a brand-new event that already feels like a fixture — this is one for the history books. Highlights: Behind the ropes: Alec Lochore on the pressure, the pitfalls, and the moments that clicked The showdown: Ros & Izilot DHI vs. Laura & London 52 — separated by just 0.2 penalties Jonelle Price and Capitaine De Hus Z make their mark in the CCI4*-L Standout performances from Emily King, Izzy Taylor, Tom Jackson & more Family vibes, Scottish flair, and why Scone already feels like a “proper” international The horse statue signing — the coolest new tradition on the circuit Guests: Alec Lochore – Event Director & Course Designer, Scone Palace International Horse Trials Catherine Austen – Journalist & eventing insider, providing competition analysis and on-the-ground perspective Host: Nicole Brown   For news, results, and future updates: www.sconehorsetrials.com 👀 Want more insights, picks, and data-driven takes? Follow @equiratings_eventing on Instagram and Facebook for your ultimate eventing companion.

In this episode of When Nicole Met, supported by Bedmax, Nicole Brown sits down with Swiss Olympian Felix Vogg. From his family’s Olympic heritage to becoming Switzerland’s first five-star winner in over 70 years, Felix shares the pivotal moments of his career, the horses that shaped him, and his ambitions for Burghley and the European Championships. Episode Highlights Family influence: growing up in a household with Olympic history A career reset — choosing quality over quantity in his yard Producing long-lasting, happy horses as the true measure of success Championship milestones and his historic Luhmühlen 5* victory Training and producing difficult horses — and what they’ve taught him Looking ahead: plans with Cartania, Colero, and the big goals for 2025 Guest Info Felix Vogg — Swiss equestrian, three-time Olympic rider, and five-star winner This episode of When Nicole Met is kindly supported by Bedmax — purpose-made, natural horse bedding designed to protect respiratory health, support hooves, and provide a clean, comfortable stable environment.

In this episode, Nicole Brown is joined first by Matthew Taylor, Director of Racing at Perth Racecourse, to talk about the build-up to the very first Scone Palace International Horse Trials. From pulling the event together in just 10 months to preparing seven cross-country tracks, Matt shares behind-the-scenes insight into course building, ground management, and what it means for Scottish eventing. Then Spike the Vet steps in to join Nicole for a full preview of the feature classes — the CCI4*-L and CCI4*-S. They run through the EquiRatings Prediction Centre favourites, the ones to watch, and a few dark horses, with plenty of stats, form analysis, and rider backstories to set the scene for the weekend. Episode Highlights: Matthew Taylor on merging racecourse and eventing expertise for year one at Scone How the team is tackling ground prep after a dry summer CCI4*-L contenders — from joint favourites Wills Oakden & Keep It Cooley to Daisy Berkeley’s Blenheim runner-up CCI4*-S favourites — why Laura Collett & London 52 could be tough to beat International challengers, dark horses, and form pointers for both classes What’s on across the weekend: grassroots championships, showing, show jumping, mounted games, and more Guest Info: Matthew Taylor — Director of Racing, Perth Racecourse Spike Milligan — Equine Vet & regular EquiRatings Podcast contributor Host: Nicole Brown For tickets and event info: www.sconehorsetrials.com  

In this Inside Defender Burghley bonus episode, Nicole Brown visits the venue just three weeks before Defender Burghley Horse Trials kicks off for 2025. Event Director Martyn Johnson and Course Designer Derek di Grazia share exclusive insights on final preparations, from reversing the track direction for the first time since 2017 to reimagining iconic features like the Trout Hatchery. Episode Highlights Three Weeks to Go: Why this is crunch time for the Burghley team. A New Direction: How reversing the course changes the challenges for riders. Design Secrets: The small details — from tree placement to car positioning — that shape the way fences ride. Heritage Meets Innovation: Keeping legendary features like Lionbridge, the Leaf Pit, and Defender Valley fresh while showcasing sponsors. Fence to Watch: The revamped Trout Hatchery at the seven-minute mark. Ground Game: How the team is delivering top-class going despite a dry summer. Guests Martyn Johnson – Event Director, Defender Burghley Horse Trials Derek di Grazia – International Course Designer, Burghley Burghley Horse Trials Host Nicole Brown Check out the Burghley website here. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Nicole Brown and Sam Watson dive straight into the newly announced Defender Burghley Horse Trials 2025 entry list — and the stories behind the names. With the course running in reverse for the first time since 2017 and an elite field taking shape, they discuss the contenders, the challenges, and the drama that could unfold. Episode Highlights: The reversed Burghley track and how it could make time even tougher. Ros Canter & Lordships Graffalo’s huge Prediction Centre win chance — and the Badminton/Burghley double on the line. Vitali’s brilliance, Tim Price’s resilience, and the quest for a Burghley win. Colorado Blue’s stamina strengths and Ireland’s hopes. Harry Meade’s triple challenge and quest for a first 5* victory. Exciting returning and debuting combinations to watch. Guests: Nicole Brown – Host of the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast. Sam Watson – International event rider, analyst, and EquiRatings co-founder. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

We’re nearing the first-ever Scone Palace International Horse Trials — and Scotland’s own Wills Oakden is here to take us behind the scenes. Nicole Brown chats with Wills about what this brand-new event means for Scottish eventing, the work going into preparing the venue, and his own plans for competing on home turf. From fresh challenges to home advantage, it’s a mix of insight, humour, and excitement for one of the most talked-about additions to the 2025 calendar. Episode Highlights: The end of an era for Blair and why Scone is stepping into the spotlight Terrain, setting, and spectator appeal — what makes Scone unique Wills’ perspective on the cross-country course and preparations His horse line-up for the weekend How he handles pressure at home events Why Scone’s first year is just the start of something big Guest: Wills Oakden Host: Nicole Brown Scone Palace International Horse Trials is running from the 21st to the 24th of August. Check out tickets here. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

It’s Dublin Horse Show week, and things have gone totally rogue at EquiRatings HQ. In this surprise crossover episode, Nicole Brown is joined by a very special crew — jumping podcast host Charlotte Smet, eventing’s newest content wizard Ali Barrett, and the trustry senior analyst Georgia Patrick — for an unauthorised Alphabetti Spaghetti. What started as a quiet moment while Diarm was in a meeting quickly spiralled into full-blown podcasting chaos, live from a glass-walled booth in the middle of Dublin. This is Alphabetti Spaghetti  — jumping meets eventing, first dates are discussed, anger and rage are confessed, and the team may (or may not) be in trouble with Diarmuid Byrne.

In this episode of Through the Owners’ Eyes, Johnny Hornby shares the journey behind Barrington Sport Horses — from his early riding days to becoming one of the most dynamic owners and breeders in British eventing. With 38 horses, major ambitions for riders like Izzy Taylor, and a creative, lighthearted approach to sponsorship through Hawkstone Lager, Johnny offers a refreshing look at ownership done differently. Episode Highlights From Pebworth Vale to 38 horses: how Johnny reignited a lifelong love of horses Why Barrington focuses on elite mares and sires — and the real cost of breeding Supporting Izzy Taylor’s bid for the top, including LA 2028 dreams Backing the next generation: from his own daughters to young stars like Jago The origin of Hawkstone Lager — and what happens when you win your body weight in beer Big-picture thoughts on prize money, the future of sponsorship, and why we must protect iconic venues Guest: Johnny Hornby Founder of Barrington Sport Horses Leading figure in advertising and entrepreneurship Owner, breeder, and sponsor championing the future of eventing Host: Nicole Brown This episode is powered by EquiRatings Horse Sales — the data-driven way to find your next superstar. From performance metrics to potential and price, EquiRatings helps take the guesswork out of buying and selling horses. Find out more here. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.