It seems a long time agon now but Con Rico and I had an excellent time at the Mitsubishi Motors Cup at Badminton. He did find it all a bit overwhelming being his first time at such a big event however he completed which was our aim and tried hard in all three phases. He didn’t pull off his best score however in the very wet conditions for the show jumping and cross country he did his best and came back sound and well, which is all I can ask.
Once returning from Badminton MMC, everything is always a hectic at Homelands getting the horses ready for the summertime routine, new fields to prepare, sorting out new horses coming in and adjusting the eventing schedule ahead after the first few months. This year was always going to be interesting season for me as I planned to do more of the International Events, coming away from my normal Eventing road trip. Well that was the plan until an unexpected fall at Little Downham off Con Rico – his first Novice after competing at Badminton MMC, took me out of action with a fractured scapula (shoulder blade) and a few cracked ribs.
So, I thought this would be a good opportunity to introduce you to the team behind Ben Leathers Eventing. Of course, we will start with the grooms, Johanna – my loyal competition groom who when told it’s another 4am start and won’t be back till late, doesn’t even flinch. She is exceptional on the yard and at competitions, always having the horses ready to go. Then my other grooms Megan and Lucy, who keep the yard running while I am out competing. Not to forget my wife Jo who does all the plaiting, both mane and tails no matter what time we head off they are always ready.
Further to the yard team I have to mention my farrier – Bill Watson, who keeps the horses well up together which is so important throughout the season, along with both my Osteopath – Niki Matthews and sports massage – Emma Trace (Surrey Equine Massage) who keep both myself and the horses in great shape for the season. I have solid support through Keyflow feeds as not only are my competition horses fed Keyflow but all the livery horses are as the quality of the feed, nutrition support and expertise is second to none. I also have great support from Well Gel supplying Aloe Vere products for the horses and Four Seasons Equestrian dressing me with the best competition outfits from Cavalleria Toscana keeping me looking smart for every competition. I am also lucky to have the ongoing support from Julie – iesportsmedia, who has introduced me to some amazing people behind the scenes in the media world.
There are many more connected to the behind the scenes team which seems to get bigger each year. I feel that these supporters are an essential part of the team and should be recognised for their time and effort as each person has a fundamental part to play in the success and wellbeing of the horses form season to season. So, a big thank you to them all for your ongoing support.
