The World of Eventing with David Britnell: Unpacking the Thrill with a Pro!
1. From Pony Rides to Pro: David's Journey Unbridled
For many, a job is just a job. But for David Britnell, his "proper job" is a lifelong passion that started unexpectedly. What began as simply enjoying a pony ride at 13 years old, after his mom, a riding school instructor, invited him to "have a go," quickly turned into a love affair with horses. He even joked for years that he was still on a "gap year" – a dream many of us can relate to!
Fun Fact: Did you know "eventing" is often called an equestrian triathlon? It's a unique sport that truly tests both horse and rider across three exciting phases:
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Dressage: Think of it as elegant horse dancing! Horses and riders perform a series of predetermined movements in an arena, showcasing their grace, obedience, and harmony.
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Cross-Country: This is where the adrenaline kicks in! Riders gallop across open country, jumping over fixed obstacles like logs, ditches, and water fences. It's a true test of bravery, fitness, and trust.
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Show Jumping: Precision and agility are key here. Horses and riders navigate a course of knockdown fences in an arena, aiming for a clear round without touching a single pole.
David's path wasn't just about his own skill; it was deeply shaped by his incredible equine partners. He credits two horses in particular: Buddy, an Arab Hannavarian cross with a "heart of a lion" who introduced him to competitive eventing, and Brad, a truly special horse. With Brad, David climbed from local Pony Club events all the way to the sport's highest levels.
Record Breaker! David and Brad hold a unique and inspiring record: they are the only horse-rider combination to have completed both the grassroots (beginner level) and five-star (elite level) events at Badminton, one of the world's most famous and challenging eventing competitions. Talk about starting from the ground up and reaching for the stars! Their journey together spans over 13 years, showcasing an incredible bond and dedication.
2. Behind the Gallop: The Daily Grind of an Event Rider
Being a professional event rider isn't just about riding in fancy competitions. It's a relentless, "early till late" commitment that demands sharp business skills and incredible mental toughness. David explains the "business side" involves keeping clients and horse owners happy, ensuring the horses are fit and healthy, and managing the day-to-day operations of a bustling stable yard. It’s a constant juggle of training, logistics, and planning.
And what about those big competitions? Even the most experienced riders face nerves. David shared his powerful secret weapon: EMDR therapy. This technique, which helps to "unload baggage or weight in your head," allowed him to overcome significant anxiety after a past injury to his beloved horse, Brad. It freed his mind to focus solely on his riding.
Pro Tip: This isn't just for equestrians! Many top athletes, from Formula One drivers to tennis players, use similar mental preparation techniques. It's a reminder that success isn't just about physical strength or talent; a strong, clear mind is equally crucial.
3. The Perfect Partnership: The Magic of Saddles and Beyond
Imagine running a marathon in shoes that don't fit. Sounds painful, right? The same goes for horses and saddles! David emphasizes why a saddle is much more than just a seat; it's a critical link in the horse-rider partnership, impacting performance "all the difference in the world." A well-fitting saddle ensures the rider is balanced and can give clear instructions, while keeping the horse comfortable and allowing them to move freely and correctly.
The Science of Fit: An ill-fitting saddle can lead to discomfort, rubs, and even muscle problems for the horse, just like bad shoes can hurt your feet. It's one of the most important factors for a happy horse and a good performance. David uses adjustable saddles that can be tweaked for each horse and rider, highlighting the importance of a custom fit.
For any young riders dreaming of a career in eventing, David offers a piece of "simple wisdom": "The journey is the product." Don't rush the process, he advises. Focus on building a strong bond with your horse or pony, and enjoy every step of the learning experience. The results and progression will naturally follow from that deep connection and patience, just like any good friendship.
4. A Tour of the Dream Yard: Where Champions Are Made
David generously took us on a tour of his amazing facilities, showcasing the impressive setup required to train top event horses. From the bustling main barns, where event horses are predominantly in training, to the smaller barn housing full and training liveries, it's clear this is a meticulously organized operation. There are dedicated wash bays with hot water, a valuable "carium" area for grooming and massage, and a well-stocked feed room.
Horse "Roommates": The yard is home to a diverse cast of equine characters, each with their own story! We met Libby, recovering from an injury; Marco, a jockey's horse used for "downtime" eventing; Goose, a unique vaulting horse (yes, people do gymnastics on a moving horse!); and Storm, a young, sensitive horse just beginning his eventing career.
Watching Storm in training was a masterclass in patience and communication. David demonstrated how he "holds his hand on the end of the rein" – supporting the horse without forcing, allowing him to learn and build confidence, even when easily spooked by new noises. This gentle yet firm guidance helps young horses understand their job and trust their rider.
Conclusion: Ride On!
David Britnell's journey is a powerful reminder that with passion, unwavering patience, and a deep connection with our equine partners, extraordinary things are possible. His story isn't just about winning; it's about the profound bond, the daily dedication, and the continuous pursuit of improvement. Whether you're a seasoned rider, an aspiring eventer, or simply curious about this incredible sport, the world of eventing offers a unique blend of athleticism, artistry, and heart that truly sets it apart.
