EquiRatings Eventing Podcast

The third five-star in as many weeks is here — and the 2025 Mars Badminton Horse Trials is shaping up to be a classic. Last year, Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo conquered the mud to win Badminton in historic style. This year, the ground is fast, the field is fierce — and everything’s up for grabs. The 2025 Mars Badminton Horse Trials could mark a changing of the guard or a reassertion of greatness. Will Roz do the double? Can JL Dublin finally get his five-star moment? Is this the year Cooley Rosalent breaks through — or will Balamore Class, still a giant of the game, take another title? In this episode, Nicole Brown is joined by Diarmuid Byrne, Spike Milligan, and Catherine Austen to unpack the pressure, form, and firepower heading into one of the most hotly anticipated Badmintons in recent memory. From dressage threats to cross-country specialists and Sunday shakeups, this is the story behind the stats — and your guide to what’s coming. Highlights: The Big Five – Graffalo, Rosalent, Vitali, Dublin, Balamore Class — who’s got the edge and who might slip? Dark Horses – From Rehy DJ to Chilli Knight to Harry Meade’s climbing crew Cross-Country Outlook – What the early rounds will reveal — and who’s built for a tough day Sunday Showdowns – Strong jumpers, small margins, and the final test under pressure Podium Predictions – The team picks their winners, surprises, and one horse they can’t shake Guests: Diarmuid Byrne – Co-founder of EquiRatings  Spike Milligan – Team vet and cross-country form expert  Catherine Austen – Longtime journalist and Badminton insider    EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. 👀 Want more insights, picks, and data-driven takes? Follow @equiratings_eventing for your ultimate Badminton companion.

With Badminton right around the corner, it’s a big week in British eventing — and this show is full of inspiration, insight, and expert advice. Nicole Brown is joined first by five-star rider and coach Kylie Roddy, who shares her mindset heading into Badminton with SRS Kan Do, plus invaluable tips for grassroots riders preparing for the Lemieux Grassroots Championships or Aspen Cooling BE80 Championships. From sticking to your plan to managing nerves and distractions, Kylie’s perspective is all about confidence, clarity, and enjoying the moment. Then, British Eventing CEO Rosie Williams returns to the show to talk sunny starts to the season, strong entry numbers, how the Abandonment Fund is evolving, and how British Eventing is working to make the sport more sustainable, accessible, and responsive to feedback. They also touch on new initiatives like Cross Country Plus and Pony Club collaboration, plus an exciting few weeks ahead for grassroots riders.   Highlights: Badminton Mindset – Kylie Roddy on prepping for a five-star and helping her students thrive at championship level Grassroots Gold – Tips for sticking to your plan, riding with confidence, and managing atmosphere at big events BE Updates from the Top – Rosie Williams on strong entries, early-season momentum, and preparing for the rest of 2024 Initiatives to Watch – From Cross Country Plus to BE-Pony Club collaboration, how BE is building for the future Grassroots Championship Buzz – What’s coming up at Badminton and Chillington, and why it’s not just about the winners Guests: Kylie Roddy – Five-star rider, coach, and master of the mindset game.  Rosie Williams – British Eventing CEO with her finger on the pulse.  Nicole Brown – Your host, bringing the questions, the context, and the conversations you didn’t know you needed.   📲 Follow @britisheventing on Instagram to stay up to date with all the action 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.

Confidence can take months to build—and seconds to lose. With championship events like Badminton Grassroots and the BE80 Champs on the horizon, this episode of the Grassroots Show, presented by Foran Equine, is all about practical, honest mindset strategies for riders at every level. Nicole is joined by sports psychologist and BE-accredited coach Clare Chamberlayne, who brings a rare combination of expertise: she’s a five-star competitor, a coach, and an owner. Together they explore how to build confidence, manage pressure, stay focused when things feel big, and enjoy the moment without losing your plan. This is one for any rider preparing to step up, stay away, or simply ride with more clarity and confidence. Highlights: Mindset vs. Sports Psychology – understanding the difference Building Confidence – why it’s about challenge, not comfort Managing Nerves – recognising adrenaline and using it well Staying Away – what to expect, how to plan, and what catches riders out Time and Pressure – managing your day when the stakes feel high Sticking to the Plan – why over-prepping often backfires Support Crews – how to handle distractions and keep your focus   Guests: Claire Chamberlain – Sports psychologist, BE-accredited coach, five-star competitor and event horse owner. Nicole Brown – Host of The Grassroots Show. Presented by Foran Equine, part of the Connolly’s RED MILLS family. 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.  

Five-star season hits it's next stop — and this time we’re heading to the other side of the world. It’s Adelaide week, and Nicole Brown is joined by Sharon Ridgway on this Preview Show presented by Equilume, to set the scene for the only five-star in the Southern Hemisphere. From Bold Venture’s long-awaited five-star debut to the tight turns and big atmosphere that define this city-centre cross-country track, they break down what makes Adelaide a true test — and who’s best equipped to take it on. With expert insight, top picks, and future stars to watch, it’s everything you need to follow the action this weekend. Highlights Bold Venture: Can he turn his 4* success into a five-star win? Why the Adelaide track asks such a unique cross-country question The history, layout, and atmosphere that set this event apart Aussie contenders to keep an eye on — and who might surprise us Four-star field insights, including a rising star that’s caught Will Coleman’s eye Guests Nicole Brown – Host of the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast, bringing sharp questions and championship-level energy to every preview. Sharon Ridgway – Australia’s go-to eventing expert, armed with deep knowledge, smart picks, and the kind of intel you won’t find on a start list. This episode is brought to you by Equilume — using the power of light to support performance, recovery, and overall wellbeing in horses. Find out more here. 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.

The first five-star of the year is done and dusted — and Michael Jung has officially made history. In this episode, Nicole Brown is joined by Diarmuid Byrne and Annie Bishop to break down all the big stories from the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event: Mickey’s record 5th Kentucky title (6 at the venue), Boyd Martin’s epic weekend with three in the top seven, Harry Meade’s masterclass across the country, and a few warm and fuzzy moments that reminded us why we love this sport. From dressage dominance to that one early rail that gave us 15 seconds of jeopardy, they cover it all — plus, they take a look at the shifting US eventing landscape, future stars to watch, and why Kentucky just hits differently. Whether you were there soaking it in or following from home, this is your full wrap-up of an unforgettable weekend.   Highlights: Michael Jung's historic fifth Kentucky win with fischerChipmunk FRH Boyd Martin's standout performance with three horses inside the top seven Harry Meade’s cross-country masterclass and a big weekend for Et Hop du Matz and Graffenacht Big moments for the US eventing team — and where the strength lies heading into a massive year Future stars to watch (including a few who might just steal the show in 2026 and beyond) Guests: Nicole Brown — Our host for the show, keeping the conversation moving with expert insights and all the key moments you need to know. Diarmuid Byrne — EquiRatings co-founder, bringing sharp analysis, big-picture context, and a look at what it all means for the world rankings. Annie Bishop — US eventing insider and producer, offering standout stories, and plenty of inside scoop from the heart of the action.   EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Catch up on all of our Inside Kentucky episodes wherever you get your podcasts.    

The wait is over — the Inside Kentucky Preview Show is here. Nicole Brown and Sam Watson set the scene for one of the most competitive Defender Kentuckys we’ve seen in years. The field is stacked, the conditions could shake things up, and the storylines are electric. Can Boyd Martin finally win on home soil with one of the strongest strings he’s ever brought? Will Michael Jung and Chipmunk bounce back in style? And Tim Price and Tom McEwen are quietly turning up the heat in the world number one race. Over in the Cosequin® 4*-S, Olympic veterans and rising stars like HSH Blake and Off The Record headline a field stacked with serious contenders. This episode is everything you need to sound clever in the group chat all week long— top picks, and the numbers that matter and why this year’s Defender Kentucky is a must-follow. Highlights: Boyd’s all-in: why this is more than just another five-star for Team Martin Chipmunk and Michi — the comeback everyone’s watching World number one? Tim and Tom are both making a case Four-star form guide: Caroline and Blake, and the other combos ready to surprise One stat that shows just how close Kentucky came to rewriting the record books Guests: Nicole Brown –  Eventing Podcast host Sam Watson – Data analyst, five-star rider, and co-founder of EquiRatings   EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Catch up on all of our Inside Kentucky episodes wherever you get your podcasts, and stay in the loop by following Defender Kentucky on Instagram and Facebook!

Nicole Brown catches up with Alex Bragg in this Connolly’s Red Mills special as he prepares to head to Kelsal Hill. With the lorry being loaded and just enough time for a cup of tea, Alex reflects on a standout 2024 season—third at Badminton, finishing on his dressage score at Burghley, and managing a yard full of rising talent. He opens up about his relationship with the extraordinary mare Quindiva, handling pressure on the biggest stages, and what it means to involve the entire family and team in his success. They also discuss the quirky character of Ardeo Premier ahead of his first Badminton, and the importance of smart, balanced feeding when managing sensitive top-level horses.   Episode Highlights The chaos and reward of managing a yard mid-season How Quindiva climbed from 51st to the podium at Badminton Why finishing on your dressage score at Burghley puts you in the 1% club A deeper look into Alex’s mindset when the pressure hits The role of family, staff, and support teams behind the scenes What makes Ardeo Premier tick as he heads to Badminton How nutrition plays a major role in performance and temperament Standout Quotes “If this mare doesn’t make the time at Burghley, it’s on me.” “The crowd is a wonderful distraction. Better to rise to the occasion than shrink from it.” Why Connolly’s Red Mills? Alex speaks passionately about the difference smart feeding makes—especially with sharp, sensitive horses like Quindiva. Connolly’s Red Mills offers a simple, flexible system that supports both performance and temperament. It’s not just about fuel; it’s about balance, brain, and body. That’s why Connolly’s Red Mills is trusted by riders aiming for the top.   Learn more about Connolly’s Red Mills nutrition and products   EquiRatings Eventing Podcast Follow the Eventing Podcast Instagram and Facebook   RED MILLS Premium Quality Equine Feed | RED MILLS Horse Connolly's RED MILLS is the trusted leaders of premium quality horse feed. Explore our range of horse feed for high performance and nutrition 

He’s got 65 international wins, three powerhouse horses, and unfinished business at Defender Kentucky. In this episode of Inside Kentucky, Boyd Martin joins the show to talk about his road to the 2025 five-star — from early wins Down Under to the lessons of a career comeback after hip surgery. With Commando 3, Fedarman B, and Luke 140 all peaking at the right time, Boyd shares what it’s like chasing the dream, building the horsepower, and why Kentucky still feels like home. Plus, hear his unfiltered take on what makes the American eventing crowds the best in the world.  Highlights: 65 wins and counting: Boyd’s road from Werribee to the world stage Inside the stable: How Commando 3, Fedarman B, and Luke 140 are shaping up for Kentucky Why five-star wins mean more than ever in today’s sport Honest talk: injuries, setbacks, and chasing world number one What makes Defender Kentucky so special — and how US fans steal the show Guests: Boyd Martin – US Olympic rider and 65-time international winner Hosted by Nicole Brown EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.   Catch up on all of our Inside Kentucky episodes wherever you get your podcasts, and stay in the loop by following Defender Kentucky on Instagram and Facebook!

What’s it really like to own a horse at the Olympic Games—or to get a call out of the blue asking if you’d like to co-own a future five-star winner? In the first episode of Through the Owners' Eyes, we sit down with Paula and David Evans, the brilliant duo behind some of eventing’s most exciting horses. From Vassily de Lassos’ medal-winning journey with Andrew Hoy to their newest star, Valmy Biats with Emily King, Paula and David share the stories, surprises, and big emotions behind the scenes.   Highlights: The unexpected fall that started it all (thanks to the Wobbleberry Challenge!) Buying Vassily de Lassos… then watching him fly around Tryon and Tokyo Valmy Biats and the voicemail that led to a top-class new partnership What it’s like emotionally when your horse is on the world stage Badminton 2025 and why they’re more excited than ever Guests: Paula Evans – Passionate eventing owner and storyteller, co-owner of Vassily de Lassos, Creevagh Cooly & Valmy Biats David Evans – Lifelong eventing supporter, co-owner, and the steady hand behind the scenes Hosted by 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.

Two horses, one massive goal, and zero interest in playing it safe. Tom Rowland is back on the podcast in this Red Mills Special, with his foot firmly on the gas as he gets ready to head down the road to Badminton—literally (he lives 30 minutes away). With Dreamliner looking to go even better than last year’s top-10 and Quintilius stepping up for his five-star debut, Tom talks fitness, form, and why this year, he’s not crossing the finish line wondering “could I have gone faster?” Highlights: Tuning up two very different horses for five-star Why "safe" isn’t on the game plan this year Mindset, motivation, and the beauty of just showing up Balancing a busy competition yard with big five-star goals Wild hacks, pre-fuel pastes, and a mare with serious opinions Guests: Tom Rowland, Connolly’s Red Mills rider and five-star eventer Hosted by Nicole Brown Sponsors: Connolly's Red Mills are offering 15% off Foran Equine products to Eventing Podcast listeners! Use the code EquiRatingsPodcast15 to receive your discount. View the full collection here. Note this does not apply to the already discounted Pre-Fuel & Refuel combo packs. If you have any other questions regarding feeding click here to ask the Connolly's RED MILLS experts. Special Offer: Purchase a 4.5L Kentucky Karron Oil and get a free Copper-Max syringe — offer running until 27th April! EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.