by bramhamadmin | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
It was a final day to remember at the 2025 Defender Bramham International Horse Trials, when Suffolk-based rider Bubby Upton sealed a dominant victory in the Defender CCI4*-L riding the Five Time Syndicate and her own Its Cooley Time. Meanwhile, Bramham’s traditional curtain closer, the Wetherby Skips Grand Prix, was claimed by local rider William Whitaker riding Millfield Quickstep after a hard-fought six-horse jump-off.
Defender CCI4*-L
Final Horse Inspection
The day started with the final horse inspection. A total of 42 horses came forward in front of the Ground Jury of President Christian Steiner (AUT), Nikki Herbert (GBR) and James Rooney (IRL). Two were sent to the holding box and subsequently withdrawn by riders Thomas Hawke and Matthew Heath, which gave 40 horses the chance to contest the final jumping phase over Jason Abbs’s technical track.
Clear rounds win prizes
The forecasted showers were kept at bay as the jumping got underway and, despite the conditions being ideal, clear rounds proved elusive. It took 12 rounds for a faultless performance in the form of Gubby Leach, who delivered with Damage van Berkenbroeck Z. Clear rounds continued to be few and far between as we approached the sharp end and, with a fence separating 10th to second, only a clear round would keep combinations in contention.
The first combination to make a claim on a top placing was Tom Jackson and his first ride in the top six, Helen Scott’s Hawk Eye. A fantastic round in yesterday’s cross-country had promoted them up the order from 13th after dressage to sixth. Running out of order so Tom had time to warm his second horse up, ‘BB’ jumped beautifully and looked very fresh – it was clear all the way and put them in a strong position.
Irish-based Brit Daniel Alderson and Blarney Monbeg Pepper had enjoyed a seven-place jump up the leaderboard yesterday to fifth – they also were clear in the jumping, but stopped the clock one second over the time allowed to earn 0.4, which was enough to retain their placing. Tom Jackson was up again on his better-placed horse, United 36, owned by Michael Stenning, who occupied fourth after the first two phases. However, a single rail lowered them out of the top placings.
It was then into the top three and first up was Caroline Harris and Cooley Mosstown, owned by Gail Sinclar, Karen Dunford and Dinah Posford. This duo has impressed all week with their consistency and ability, and today was no different – an immaculate clear guaranteed them a place on the podium, but which step it would be was still to be decided.
Next in was Izzy Taylor, a two-time previous winner here, and Jane Timmis’s SBH Big Wall. The duo was third after a snazzy dressage test and moved up one place over Saturday’s cross-country track, thanks to adding just 0.8 time to their tally. A single fence down would draw them level with Caroline, so there wasn’t really any margin for error. Sadly, they lowered the first fence, which immediately ramped up the pressure and, as they progressed, two further rails fell to drop them outside the top 12.
Then, it was down to our final pairing – Bubby Upton and Its Cooley Time, who have been in dominant mood all week and given an impressive performance in each phase. Bubby has been honest about the cheeky grey’s chequered past and how her faith in his precocious talent has kept her focused on realising his potential, so getting today right was her ultimate reward.
Bubby cantered into the Defender Arena knowing that she had the cushion of one fence and some time in hand but, being the consummate professional, her aim was a clear to finish on her dressage score and take the biggest win of her career to date.
Its Cooley Time looked fresh as a daisy, with no sign the previous day’s exertions, but could Bubby keep his exuberance in check and his mind focused on the task at hand? They started well, with Bubby keeping quiet in the saddle and allowing the grey to do the jumping. They took a long shot at fence three, but managed to safely clear it. She expertly kept the pace to make the time without rushing the rhythm, with super-still hands to let the gelding jump without any interference. As they rounded the left-hand turn to the influential treble, they were still clear. Part a, b and then c stayed in the cups, then it was down to final two fences. The penultimate upright was successfully negotiated, then six strides to the final Defender spread fence. A cursory glance to the big screen to check their time revealed that the pair was inside the optimum, before a huge smile erupted across Bubby’s face, followed by a celebrator punch of the air and plenty of praise for ‘Finn’. Victory was hers.
Bubby won the U25 section here in 2023 with Magic Roundabout, adding to the U18 and U21 National titles already on her CV. However, in the intervening two years, she’s had to essentially rebuild her life after breaking several vertebrae in her back just months after taking the title. Plenty of rehabilitation and a steely determination has helped her not only to return to the sport, but to be better than ever.
“He’s sheer class and it fills you with so much confidence as a rider to be sat on the horse with his calibre. I owe him so much and he’s very new to this level, but already such a star and I just feel so lucky to be the one that gets to ride him and have days like this on him,” Bubby enthused.
“He was really dominant all week and just focused – he’s all class and I’m so glad he got the win that he deserved. He’s been buzzing all week, but every time it’s been the case of putting his head in the game, he’s done that. The way he went and focused in the dressage was just incredible. After cross-country, he could have gone around again and just made it feel so easy, and in the jumping today he was quite extraordinary. It’s pretty impossible to describe the feeling that he gives me.
“He’s in the league of his own, to be honest with you, and I’m just so excited to see what’s to come. I’d say the future’s pretty bright with him in my string,” she added excitedly.
Only Kristina Cook and Terry Boon have won the age category class and long format competition here at Bramham, but there’s now a new name in that prestigious club today and it’s Bubby Upton.
The runners-up spot went to Caroline Harris, who said afterwards, “I’m very proud of him [Cooley Mosstown]. He’s actually a very good jumper, but I find him a little bit easier on the last day when he’s a little bit tired. He was not going to touch a fence. He’s only nine and we came here just to do his first CCI4*-L, so we had no expectations – I just wanted him to finish confident and happy, and he’s gone above and beyond. He deserves this result because he’s a phenomenal horse.”
The final spot on the podium went to Tom Jackson and Hawk Eye, who rose from 13th after dressage. “We’re really happy with him. He’s quite a new ride for me but he’s experienced – it’s his third time here. We’ve been working hard on trying to have him as adjustable as I can because he can get quite keen and strong, but he really felt like he was with me yesterday and I was super pleased with that. And today, he’s followed it up with a lovely clear,” said a chuffed Tom.
“This is our fourth event together, so hopefully he keeps going like that! It’s the plan to go five-star because we’re qualified now, so maybe there’ll be another ‘big B’ in the autumn,” he added.
So, Bubby Upton and Its Cooley Time are the latest names to be etched on the Defender Bramham roll of honour and this is certainly a duo with a bright future ahead of them – we await their next chapter, but will be proud to say that Bramham, as it has with a number of prolific combinations, gave them their break into the big time.
Wetherby Skip Services 1.45m Grand Prix
It’s been a tradition at Bramham since the 1970s to end the event with a Grand Prix and the Yorkshire crowd always stay to take in the top-flight action. This year’s Wetherby Skip Services-supported class gave them a real treat. With some 45 combinations coming forward, including a host of leading names, local talent and rising stars among the entries.
Some great jumping over Jason Abbs’ clever course yielded seven clear rounds, with two horses apiece for cousins William and Joe Whitaker, one for Guy Williams, one for Rachel Proudley and one for event rider and occasional showjumper Gemma Stevens. Gemma elected not to jump, so we were down to six.
Joe was first into the jump-off with his international horse Hulahupe JR, who set the bar with a fast clear in 37.12 seconds. William was next, riding Cristallo’s Double Take, and the big-striding grey was also clear, but not quite quick enough to better Joe. Guy Williams gave it a good crack with Uncle Braun DK Z with a clear, but just missing the time. Next up was North Yorkshire-based Rachel Proudley, who’s just 19 – could she take a back-to-back win, having claimed the title last June? She set off in a determined mood with Quality TJS and shaved every turn, moving quickly across the sizable Defender arena to leave all the poles standing in a time of 35.56, snatching the lead.
Joe Whitaker had a further chance in Icaterina, who again was clear, but just under a second slower. So, it was down to the final combination of William Whitaker riding Millfield Quickstep. William didn’t look to be pushing the bright bay mare, but rode in a great forward rhythm – he was clear, but what was the time? The commentator announced 35.50, meaning that the win was William’s by just 0.06 of a second.
William said; “I’m really delighted with Millfield Quickstep today – she really loves these kinds of shows that have got a really good atmosphere and plenty of people watching. She really rose to the occasion today.
Bramham is a show that I always love coming to. It’s one of our locals, actually, so it’s one that, if we aren’t away in Europe, is definitely top of the list.”
See you in 2026
Another Defender Bramham International Horse Trials is over – thank you to all the riders and their connections, our valued partners and sponsors, the hundreds of volunteers who make the event possible and, of course, the spectators who turn out and make the event such a special occasion every year.
The final scores, results and all the info you need is on the Defender Bramham International Horse Trials app – just download from your preferred app store or visit the website www.bramham-horse.co.uk. You can catch up with on socials too – we’re on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
Put the date in your diary for next year, 11–14 June 2026 – see you then!
by bramhamadmin | Jun 7, 2025 | Uncategorized
The great British weather may have thrown everything at the ever-hardy Yorkshire crowd, but it didn’t dampen their enthusiasm for topflight cross-country action, which we had in abundance on Super Saturday at the Defender Bramham International Horse Trials. Reigning World Champion Yasmin Ingham took the Defender CCI4*-S spoils with The Sue Davies Fund and Janette Chinn’s Gypsie du Loir, while Bubby Upton tightens her grip on the Defender CCI4*-L title thanks to a superb performance with Its Cooley Time, who she jointly owns with the Five Time Syndicate.
Defender CCI4*-S
Saturday is the finale for the short format competition, with the winner being crowned after two tightly fought jumping phases. There was the small matter of Jason Abbs’ showjumping track to navigate and, with scores close, clear rounds inside the time would be as decisive as ever. The majority of the leaders made little of the course, provided they kept up the pace because the optimum time was tight.
The main casualty was the second-placed combination, Piggy French and the Maidwell Mavericks-owned MCS Maverick. They gave an up-to-height parallel the lightest of taps to send it down and they also just tripped the timing a second over to add 0.4 – that sadly dropped them to 12th going into the cross-country phase.
While the cross-country test for the short competition might have only had an optimum time of 6:47 minutes, Andy Heffernan’s technical track combined with the undulations of the Bramham park meant that rounds inside the time are at a premium. Plus, just five penalties separate the top 12 as they headed into this decisive phase.
The first of the leading pack to head across the country was the Under-25 National Championship leader after dressage and jumping, Tom Woodward with his own Low Moor Lucky, who lay fifth overall. The duo re-routed to Bramham from Badminton and were looking for a confidence-building round – and, of course, the coveted U25 title. They achieved just that, with ‘Lucky’ listening and jumping in great harmony with his rider – they stopped the clock at 7.03, yielding 6.4 time penalties, which would lower them down the overall order. However, it was enough to secure the Under-25 accolade for the Gloucestershire-based rider, who adds his name to the illustrious roster of names.
It was then all eyes on the leader, Sebastien Cavaillon for France, riding stallion Elipso de la Vigne. The pair have previously won the CCI4*-L at both Kronenberg and Saumur, so the record books were in their favour. They set off in determined mood and flowed well around the course until fence 11, where Sebastien had to work hard to keep to the line to the owl hole fence, but they were clear. As they progressed around, they were dropping behind where they wanted to be on the clock – they’d have to push for the time. As they approached the final combination after a long climb up the hill and the seconds ticked by, it was going to be tight. The clock stopped at 6:51 – four seconds over and 1.6 penalties to add. They held the lead of those who’d already gone, but the door was opened for Yasmin Ingham and Astier Nicolas to steal the win.
The first of those challengers to go was long-term partnership of Astier Nicolas and Alertamalib’or. They set off in their trademark French style, not wasting a single second anywhere – they chose the tightest lines, took every fence in stride and ate up the ground. They finished fresh and stopped the clock at 6:41, giving them six seconds to spare and the lead over their countryman.
There was just one final combination who could claim the Defender prize, and it was for the home side. World Champion Yasmin Ingham had brought her two young pretenders – both owned by The Sue Davies Fund and Janette Chinn – to Bramham to see if they’re ready for the next level in their education. She had a great first ride on Goliath du Loir to add just 0.4 of a time penalty to their two-phase score, but it was her second partner, Gypsie du Loir, who was challenging for the lead.
The nine-year-old ‘Gigi’ may have been bred in France at the same stud as Yaz’s World Championship partner Banzai du Loir (and Goliath du Loir), but she’s a very different type. She set off with her ears pricked and her full focus on the task ahead. Yaz rode an exemplary round – they flew through the Defender Trail at 18, one of the new fences for this year, and it was clear they were up on the clock. Yaz just eased the pressure and let the bright mare bowl up the final hill to cruise to the finish, stopping the clock some 14 seconds inside the time for the fastest round of the day – the Isle of Man rider knew that victory was hers.
Tiana Coudray finished fourth for the USA with the French-bred Coeur de L Esprit Z, who she owns with Grant and Sarah Hancox, and they finished on their dressage score of 28.7. Caroline Harris rounded out the top five with D.Day, owned by Fiona Olivier, Lucy Matthews, Marie Anne Richardson and Heather Royle.
“I was on a mission!”, declared a delighted Yaz. “Sebastian very kindly left the door open for me, so I thought ‘I’m not going to let this one slide’ – it’d have been rude not to! So, off we went and meant business from the beginning – she’s super-fast and really brave, so well suited to this track.
“It [the course] was quite intense – you had to make sure that you rode your line correctly and you were positive. But it’s a nice feeling when you’re sat on one that’s always looking for the flags and you can tell by her ears that she’s always concentrating.”
Yaz explained that she’s hoping to take the mare to the eight- and nine-year-old championships at Blenheim in September this year, followed by an attempt at a CCI4*-L at Boekelo in October.
The final placings in the Under-25 Championship gave Tom Woodward two spots on the podium – the win with Low Moor Lucky and Shannondale Varsity, owned by Carole Broad, in third. Anya Strilkowski and K split the two Woodward rides in second.
An elated Tom said afterwards: “Relief is the biggest emotion I’m feeling – I’m just delighted with him. He’s 18-years-old and I just want to enjoy him for what he is now, and try and make the most of him while I’ve still got him.
“The biggest thanks goes obviously to all my team that make it happen and their owners – I can’t do it without them, it’s very special. I feel quite emotional about this whole weekend because we actually came here thinking maybe he’d retire after this weekend, because I’ve always said I wanted him to finish on his terms, but he’s actually looking as happy as I think I’ve ever seen him. He’s a very special horse and he was bred in Yorkshire, so it’s quite fitting.”
Both Yaz and Astier have won the U25 title here at Bramham, in 2019 and 2012 respectively, which is proof that the Yorkshire event is a great proving ground for future stars. No pressure, Tom!
Defender CCI4*-L
British rider Bubby Upton has made no secret that she loves Bramham and it’s been a key part of her planning for a number of the horses that she’s brought through the levels. Today, she learned that the faith she has in Its Cooley Time, who she co-owns with the Five Time Syndicate, is more than justified – the grey gelding was pure class around Andy Heffernan’s cross-country course to retain the lead in the Defender CCI4*-L.
The 10-year-old had moments of exuberance, as is his way, and didn’t make it straightforward for Bubby, but they’ve built quite a partnership and never looked like faulting. With Its Cooley Time’s ground-eating stride, they finished in 09:48 minutes, some 15 seconds under the optimum time. That keeps them on a penalty score of 24.4 heading into the final day of competition tomorrow.
A beaming Bubby said; “He is phenomenal. Will I ever ride a horse as classy as him again, who knows? But he’s got it all. Obviously, in the first phase he was fantastic and he was amazing today, so fingers crossed I can get him the win that he deserves tomorrow.
“He’s finished amazingly and, to be honest, I really think that’s a testament to the team here and the ground – it was incredible. It was like a carpet out there and he galloped across that track with ease. He’s just an absolute weapon!”
Behind the Suffolk-based rider, there were plenty of changes to the top 10, with Andy’s course proving influential alongside a few heavy rain showers.
Irish-based Brit Daniel Alderson and Blarney Monbeg Pepper caught the eye with a good clear after starting the day in 12th on 32.6, and it looked as though they’d be amongst the leaders at the end of play.
Sarah Bullimore and her home bred Corimiro headed into cross-country in second place, but they had problems at fence eight before incurred a flag penalty at fence 16, at which point Sarah decided to call it a day. ‘Milo’ is just nine and has a bright future ahead of him, so it was the right decision.
This opened the door for Izzy Taylor, a winner here in 2022 and 2017, and Jane Timmis’s grey SBH Big Wall. Today would be the gelding’s first attempt at a CCI4*-L cross-country, having had some good form over short courses. Izzy set off in her typical determined fashion and the 10-year-old answered her every ask. At the second water – the Womble Bond Dickison Pond – they boldly jumped in, successfully jumped the skinny in the water and didn’t get a comfortable distance to the sizable third corner element. They jumped it, but there was a query for a flag penalty, which would add 15 to their total. They completed the course and stopped the clock just two penalties over the optimum time of 10:03 to add 0.8 for a two-day total of 26:2, subject to the review of the flag penalty.
Having already had a faultless round with his first ride, Helen Scott’s Hawk Eye, Surrey-based Tom Jackson had the chance to secure a second spot in the top 10 with Micheal Stenning’s super-smart United 36 – a two-time top-eight finisher at the World Young Horse Championships at Le Lion d’Angers with previous jockey Max Warburton. At just nine, this was the horse’s first CCI4*-L but, with three clear rounds at CCI4*-S, Tom clearly felt he was ready. A stylish clear was all the proof he needed – they stopped the clock at 10 minutes, three seconds under the optimum time. With nothing to add, it left them on a score of 31.3, which would leave Tom’s two rides well-placed going into the final showjumping. However, with more combinations to come, it would be a wait to find out just where.
Towards the end of the order, there was another great cross-country round by a horse boasting the Cooley Farm prefix – Cooley Mosstown for World Class Podium Potential rider Caroline Harris and owners Gail Sinclair, Karen Dunford and Dinah Posford. A penalty-free round saw them make a strong rise up the leaderboard.
After an action-packed morning of cross-country, the placings behind Bubby and Its Cooley time were settled and it was Izzy Taylor who moved to second with SBH Big Wall, while Caroline Harris rose three places to complete the podium. Tom Jackson ends the day in fourth with United 36 and sixth on Hawk Eye, with Daniel Alderson splitting the two in fifth.
Final day
The final horse inspection gets our last day of action in the Defender CCI4*-L under way at 09:00, before the decisive showjumping phase at 12 noon – we should know who the Defender Bramham 2025 champion is by 14:30. In addition to the thrilling climax of the eventing, there’s a host of action over the two arenas, including jumping competitions, the Kirkbourne Spaniels Display and Pony Club Games, before the traditional Bramham curtain-closer, the Wetherby Skips Grand Prix.
You can buy tickets on the gate, but why not get a head-start by booking online before you arrive.
If you can’t join us in person tomorrow, Horse & Country TV will be streaming the eventing action and you can watch live or on-demand with a subscription – there are monthly and annual options that you can cancel at any time.
Follow all the action with times, scores and all the info via the Defender Bramham International Horse Trials app – just download from your preferred app store. You can catch up with on socials too – we’re on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
by bramhamadmin | Jun 6, 2025 | Uncategorized
There’s a new name at the top of the Defender CCI4*-L leaderboard after two days of dressage because it’s Bubby Upton who leads the way. Riding the Five Time Syndicate and her own Its Cooley Time, who was eighth here last year in the CCI4*-S section, the Suffolk-based rider powered into the lead with a test packed full of presence and athleticism from the eye-catching grey. In the Defender CCI4*-S the top place is still in French hands in the form of Sebastien Cavaillon, while two new British names join him on the podium.
Defender CCI4*-L
Thursday leaders Sarah Bullimore and Corimiro, owned by Christopher and Susan Gillespie, Brett Bullimore and Bruce Saint, held their place for much of the morning. Three-time Bramham winner Izzy Taylor, riding Jane Timmis’s SBH Big Wall, was certainly one who could threaten the leaders, having arrived at Bramham off the back of a runner-up place at Belsay CCI4*-S last month. Their test started brightly, with the judges regularly finding the seven and eight buttons, and it was looking on song – but could it beat Sarah’s 24.6? The final centreline and halt was pure quality and the judges agreed, awarding an eight and two nines. A smile from Izzy meant it was good from her side and, as the final score appeared as 25.4, it was also good enough to take her into second, just 0.8 of a penalty behind Sarah.
The crowd didn’t have long to wait for the next leaderboard challenge because next to go were Bubby Upton and Its Cooley Time. The charismatic grey is one Bubby highly regards, but his exuberance sometimes gets the better of him. However, having been in the buzzing Bramham arena some twelve months ago, he looked at home. The duo performed in great harmony, with each movement executed with accuracy and great style – it was certainly going to challenge the top placings. As the final halt came, a huge smile erupted and, as Bubby walked out of the arena, she gave the assembled photographers a thumbs up. Then, the score was announced – it was 24.4, giving them the lead by just 0.2 of a penalty.
An obviously delighted Bubby said afterwards: “He’s a horse that’s always had an excess of talent – he is truly incredible. I can only describe him as a freak of nature, so I guess I’ve always hoped he could produce a test like that. For me, it was always my job to do him justice because I let him down a few weeks ago at Belsay and I was furious with myself. He’s an exceptional horse and he’s definitely capable of that and, even better, there’s more to come. He’s the cheekiest of chappies and this year he’s really matured. There were times when I felt ‘will he ever come good?’, but a lot of patience and hard work has really brought the best out in him. He’s forced me to be the better version of myself as a rider and that speaks volumes about him as a horse.”
For the remainder of the day, the challengers came and couldn’t quite break into the top five, so it’s Bubby Upton and Its Cooley Time who hold the advantage on 24.4, with Sarah Bullimore and Corimiro just behind on 24.6. Izzy Taylor and SBH Big Wall complete the podium on 25.4, while the lunchtime leaders on Thursday, Louise Romeike and Caspian 15 for Sweden, lie fourth on 27.4. British rising star Barnie Brotherton completes the top five on 29.4 with DHI King Nelson.
Defender CCI4*-S
In the 91-starter strong Defender CCI4*-S section, French rider Sebastien Cavaillon still holds the top spot from yesterday with Elipso de la Vigne. However, the remainder of the podium was a case of all-change, with two serious British challengers.
Just before noon, Sebastien was joined by compatriot Astier Nicholas on the podium, when he conjured a super 28.0 from Alertamalib’or to knock British Under-25 rider Tom Woodward and Low Moor Lucky down to third.
The first horse after the lunchbreak poised a huge challenge to the top placings, coming in the shape of none other than reigning World Champion Yasmin Ingham with Janette Chinn and The Sue Davies Fund’s Gypsie du Loir. The duo has had a great spring together, including a win at the CCI3*-S at Thoresby Park and ninth at the CCI4*-S at Bicton a few weeks ago, so a dressage of 27.9 was no huge surprise. However, the Isle of Man rider was thrilled with her nine-year-old mare, who she believes has everything it takes to go to the very top of the sport.
A few combinations later, it was the turn of the horse who won this class two years ago, MCS Maverick, now in the ownership of the Maidwell Mavericks. All eyes were on him and his new jockey, Piggy March, who’d taken over the reins from Pippa Funnell. ‘Eric’ is known for being uber-talented but also quite quirky and, since his arrival at Bramham, he’s not been straightforward for Piggy in their biggest test to date.
However, Piggy learned her trade from the master who is Pippa Funnell, who had expertly produced the bay gelding, so careful management by Piggy and her team meant that he settled and delivered when it mattered most. The test wasn’t mistake-free, but the highlights were impressive and very much outnumbered the blips – all three judges were in tune with their marks, with little between them to end on a 27.5 to go into second place.
“He’s hated doing the arena familarisation and every time he’s come up to the arena, he’s felt quite anxious,” said Piggy honestly. “Last time he was here was the lap of honour when he won with Pip [Pippa Funnell] and I did ring her this morning for help. I did think to myself, ‘is this actually going to happen?’. He’s clearly sensitive, but he’s a beautiful horse and is so light and athletic and has been produced by the best rider in the world. He’s like a Duracell rabbit that goes and goes… he also pulled a shoe this morning, so I did ponder going home.
“I have had his worst in the last 24 hours, but I was really pleased [with his test] and I wasn’t going to let myself let the occasion get to me. Hopefully, we’re getting the right feel and we’re getting it right without it being a big deal,” she explained.
Going into tomorrow’s showjumping phase, less than a pole separates the top 10. It’s Sebastien Cavaillon who sits atop the rankings with Elipso de la Vigne on 26.9, with Piggy French and MCS Maverick hot on their heels, while Yasmin Ingham and Gypsie du Loir complete the top three on 27.9. In fourth is Astier Nicholas, while Tom Woodward is fifth and leading Under-25 National Championship that sits within this section.
Super Saturday
The action gets underway tomorrow at 08:30 with the Defender CCI4*-S showjumping and designer Jason Abbs has set a technical, but flowing, test for the combinations. They follow the Defender CCI4*-L section on the Andy Heffernan-designed cross-country course, where the first horse out of the start box is at 09:00.
The Top Spec Arena is jam-packed with entertainment all day, with jumping in the form of a B&C qualifier and Pony Club classes, as well as canine action from the Kirkbourne Spaniels. In the afternoon, while cross-country action continues in the Park, the Defender Arena hosts two great jumping classes – the Bramham Classic and the Six Bar.
Of course, there’s also the 140-outlet-strong tradestand village for the shoppers, plus plenty of food outlets courtesy of Fordhall Farms.
You can buy tickets on the gate, but why not get a head-start by booking online before you arrive.
If you can’t join us in person tomorrow, Horse & Country TV will be streaming the eventing action and you can watch live or on-demand with a subscription – there are monthly and annual options and you can cancel at any time.
Follow all the action with times, scores and all the info via the Defender Bramham International Horse Trials app – just download from your preferred app store. You can catch up with on socials too – we’re on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
by bramhamadmin | Jun 5, 2025 | Uncategorized
It was a day of sunshine, showers and super scores on dressage day one of the Defender Bramham International Horse Trials. In the showcase Defender CCI4*-L section, Sarah Bullimore swooped to take the lead with homebred Corimiro when last to go with a 24.6 and in the CCI4*-S, France’s Sebastien Cavaillon tops the day one podium riding Elipso de la Vigne on 26.9.
Defender CCI4*-L
Double Olympic team gold medallist Tom McEwen set the early pace in the Defender CCI4*-L section with James and Jo Lambert’s Irish-bred Cecelia Cobra, who’s making his long format debut at Bramham. Their scor of 33.4 when fifth to go set the benchmark for others to meet.
The duo held first spot up until the lunchbreak loomed and it was the turn of Surrey rider Tom Jackson with Helen Scott’s Hawk Eye. The tall bay gelding was at home in the Defender arena here at Bramham having been here twice before with former rider Kristina Hall-Jackson and that clearly gave him confidence as the duo pulled out a 32.7 to go top of the roster.
Romeike swoops at the lunchbreak
Tom’s lead was however short lived as the next to go, Swedish rider Louise Romeike, riding Madeleine Brugman, Hinrich Romeike and her own eye-catching grey Caspian 15 spectacularly swept into the lead when last to go before the break. They were the first combination to post the first sub-30 score of the day with 27.4, with the Ground Jury of Christian Steiner (President), Nikki Herbert and James Rooney all in agreement with less than a percent between their scores.
Bullimore produces a dramatic end to the day
The final session of the day was a repeat performance as Louise could rest easy in the lead until the two penultimate riders came into play. The last but one combination Barnie Brotherton, a new member of the World Class Podium Potential Pathway, with Naomi Brotherton’s DHI King Nelson arrived at Bramham brimming with confidence on the back of their senior team debut at Bicton just a few weeks ago when they were part of the victorious Nations Cup team. That confidence shone with a polished performance in their first attempt at a CCI4*-L with 29.4 to go second behind Louise.
All eyes were then on the final rider of the day, Sarah Bullimore and the next of her homebred chestnut dynasty, Corimiro. With a yard of talent courtesy of her 2015 Senior European Championship partner and now foundation mare Lilly Corinne, ‘Milo’ is the next to follow in his mother’s footsteps and with a podium finish less than a month ago at the Belsay CCI4*-S, Sarah felt he was ready to come to Braham.
The test began brightly with the first halt earning nine, eight and eight from the judges and there was not a single score below seven for the reminder of the test. As it began, the test ended with eight, eight and nine from the judges – a super end and a final score of 24.6 to take a 2.8 penalty lead.
“He was just fabulous!” beamed Sarah of her homebred like a proud parent. “He’s only a nine-year-old and got here yesterday and was a bit ‘hot to trot’ so I thought perhaps he’s going to be a bit wild. To be fair, he loves an atmosphere, he loves crowds when we did the familiarisation yesterday, all he wanted to do was walk along the far side and look at all the trade stands in the crowd.
“He loves it busy and actually almost the busier it is, he’ll relax more. He’s a real active person but then when he knows it’s busy, he’ll go and sleep so he’s yeah, he’s quite cool in an atmosphere. He’s just a dream. I’m so lucky to, you know, jump out of bed and be able to ride him every morning. He is an absolutely pleasure to train and he just, you know, he would be a little bit hot like his mum, but in a good way, he’s got a fantastic brain and he just wants to do the right thing, he’s a pleasure to train,” she said.
With an eye on Saturday’s cross-country test, what does Sarah make of Andy Heffernan’s debut Bramham course?
“I think he’s done a fabulous job. It looks really, really good. He’s not softened and taken away from Bramham, but just in a couple of places made, it slightly kinder than it may have been in in previous years. There are enough questions out there and I think he’s done a fantastic job, and I’m really excited to get out there on Saturday and give it our best shot.”
The excitement in the Bullimore household is double fold as Sarah explained; We’re actually watching monitors at home as well at the moment because we’ve got twin full siblings of Milo due this week, which wasn’t really great planning. I’m hoping with the cooler weather and the showers that they’ll at least cross their legs until we get home on Sunday night, or Monday!”
So, could it be a double champagne celebration for Sarah this week? There’s the small matter of another full day of dressage tomorrow and plenty of jumping to tackle first but what a fairytale Bramham this might be for the Bullimores.
Defender CCI4*-S
It was a busy morning for Tom Jackson as before he played a key role in the Defender CCI4*-L top placings, he was in the arena bright and early with HH Moonwalk, owned by Hambro Sport Horses and a sprightly 32.0 set the bar for the rest to match. Just a few horses later, renowned dressage specialist Alex Hua Tian, a Bramham winner in 2016, lived up to the billing with Kate Willis’s Chicko with a polished performance to score 30.1 and put the Chinese flag at the top of the leaderboard.
Lucky double delivers
Like Alex and Chicko, Tom Woodward and Low Moor Lucky find themselves at Bramham
after their Badminton CCI5* plans didn’t quite go to plan. Tom and ‘Lucky’ did have a dream start to their debut at the iconic Gloucestershire fixture when they found themselves atop the leaderboard after their dressage so hopes were high that they could get their Bramham campaign underway in a similar fashion.
The hope became reality and Tom, a World Class Podium Potential Pathway rider, expertly guided a horse who he’s partnered from Pony Club to five star around the arena to impress the judging panel. The final score of 28.1 was the first to go under 30 with overall percentage scores ranging from 75% to 68.96% and the Gloucestershire rider found him self in familiar territory leading the dressage at a prestigious competition.
Bramham regular Piggy March was the next likely challenger to the lead with Susie Wood’s Cooley Goodwood and while the striking grey showed some great work, their score of 31.5 wasn’t enough to topple Tom but it looked good enough to give them at least a top eight finish.
French flair takes top spot
The final rider to go before the afternoon break was seasoned French rider Sebastien Cavaillon with Elipso de la Vigne, who is by the prolific jumping sire Arko. Sebastien has been to Bramham before and despite not having a happy trip last time, still rates the event as a favorite to prove your horse. The duo was amongst the French team reserves for last summer’s Paris 2024 Olympic Games and have a place at the FEI Eventing European Championships at Blenheim in Oxfordshire this September in their sights.
A superb 26.9 from the Ground Jury of Judy Hancock (President), Tim Downes and Xavier Le Sauce rocketed them into to the lead, relegating Tom and Lucky to second. However, they sit best U25 combination, a national title he’d very much like to take. Alex is third and Piggy fourth while Tom Jackson completes the top five.
Sebastien commented; “It was a nice test, my horse was a little tense with the people. He’s very good, nice paces and I was very happy with him. We bought him as a five year old and have brought him up the levels from young horses to four star – and he’s won twice at the level.
“I’ve had a first look at the course and it’s, well, very Bramham! It’s big with long gallops which is good. In France we often have courses with many twists but this is better for the horses. It’s a big test with lots of efforts and ups and downs, a good test.”
Friday dressage finale
Our final dressage day gets underway at 09.30 in the morning, with the Defender CCI4*-S resuming first and the Defender CCI4*-L follows at 10:30. In the Top-Spec Arena it’s all eyes on the equine eventing stars of the future with four and five-year-old qualifiers for the Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse Championships.
You can follow all the action with times, scores and all the info via the Defender Bramham International Horse Trials app – just download from your preferred app store. You can catch up with on socials too – we’re on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
Don’t forget, if you’re coming to watch in person, save time at the gate and buy online before you arrive.
by bramhamadmin | Jun 4, 2025 | Uncategorized
There was a full-on festival vibe as the 2025 edition of the Defender Bramham International Horse Trials got underway with the first horse inspection for the showpiece Defender CCI4*-L section. With a dress theme of ‘A touch of festival’ – in homage to the Bramham estate also hosting the Leeds Festival every year – some 64 combinations from 10 nations came forward under the Ground Jury of Christian Steiner (AUT and President), Nikki Herbert (GBR) and James Rooney (IRL). All but one passed, with Irish rider Austin O’Connor choosing to withdraw one of his two rides, Ventura Rock, owned by Kate Jarvey, from the holding box.
At Bramham, we’re all about the style and, thanks to generous support from HiHo Silver, we once again recognised the best dressed combinations. The female award went to Daisy Berkeley, while Tom Crisp took the men’s accolade – both riders fully embracing the festival theme. The four-legged athletes also looked resplendent, thanks to the expertise by the grooms, and it was Michael Stenning’s United 36, trotted up by rider Tom Jackson and prepared by groom Chloe Whitelam, who claimed the British Horse Feeds Fibre-Beet Best Turned Out award.
We head into the first day of dressage with 64 combinations, with the roster headed by defending champion Harry Meade, who arrived in Yorkshire to the news he’s now new world number one in the FEI eventing rankings – a first in his illustrious career. Having had a spring season to remember, with four top six finishes across the two five-star events – Lexington and Badminton – Harry comes to Bramham bang in form and in the mood to keep his name on the Defender trophy. His two rides are Abigail Bernard’s Jet Fighter, drawn third to go tomorrow, and Cooley Anything You Like, owned by James Midgeley and Gale Scoulier, who will go on Friday.
Other names to watch in the Defender CCI4*-L include Tom McEwen with James and Jo Lambert’s Cecelia Cobra, Izzy Taylor riding SBH Big Wall for Jane Timmis, Bubby Upton and her own and the Five Time Syndicate’s Its Cooley Time, Zara Tindall and Class Affair, owned by the Gledhill Stud and Gemma Stevens with Chilli King, owned by Chris and Clare Mathias and Christopher and Lisa Stone. All of these riders have stood atop the Bramham podium at events past and will be looking for a repeat.
In the 11-nation strong Defender CCI4*-S, which this year incorporates the British Under-25 Championship, the entry roster is topped by reigning World Champion Yasmin Ingham, who has two horses entered here, both owned by Janette Chinn and The Sue Davies Fund. Goliath du Loir and Gypsie du Loir are both bred by Pierre Gouye, who notably also produced her World Champion partner, Banzai du Loir. Piggy March, a winner here in 2004, brings forward a new ride – none other than 2023 CCI4*-L winning horse under Pippa Funnell, MCS Maverick, owned by the Maidwell Mavericks. International challenge will certainly come from names such Alex Hua Tian (CHN), Sofia Sjoborg (SWE), Astier Nicholas (FRA), Susie Berry (IRL) and Caroline Powell (NZL).
Dressage gets underway in the morning, with the Defender CCI4*-S first up at 09:10 under the presiding Ground Jury of Judy Hancock (GBR and President), Tim Downes (GBR) and Xavier Le Sauce (FRA). The Defender CCI4*-L follows on in the adjacent arena at 10:30. There’s also a full day of showing action in the Top-Spec Arena to add to the first full day of equestrian action at Bramham.
You can follow all the action with times, scores and all the info via the Defender Bramham International Horse Trials app – just download from your preferred app store. You can catch up with on socials too – we’re on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok
If you’re planning on joining us, but haven’t purchased your tickets yet, save time at the gate and buy online before you arrive.
by bramhamadmin | May 19, 2025 | Uncategorized
From 5 – 8 June all roads lead to Yorkshire for the 51st Defender Bramham International Horse Trials and this year’s event is shaping up to be a cracker. The spring sunshine has the iconic park looking stunning, the equestrian entries are flooding in and the final planning is underway so secure your tickets and plan your 2025 Bramham journey.
The showpiece in Bramham’s timetable are the eventing competitions with the Defender CCI4*-L and CCI4*-S which for 2025 includes a dedicated aware for the best under 25 rider. It’s FEI European Championships year and this time, Britain plays host to event at the Agria Blenheim Palace Horse Trials over 18 – 21 September – go well at Bramham and horse and rider combinations from all over Europe could put their names in the frame for selection. The entry roster stands at 140 currently with a star-studded 15 nations represented. Britain’s Olympic team gold medalist Tom McEwen, reigning world champion Yasmin Ingham and last year’s 50th anniversary champion Harry Meade are just a few of the names entered at present.
Bramham is synonymous with delivering stunning cross-country courses adored by riders and spectators alike. This year is the debut for new designer Andrew Heffernan as he takes over the legacy left by Ian Stark. Working closely with course builder and master of the chainsaw David Evans, Andrew is looking to make his mark with a test befitting of the Bramham tradition but with his own stamp.
Eventing may be at the heart of Bramham but there’s a host of other equestrian competitions too. There’s youngstock and hunter showing classes, a Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse qualifier and British Showjumping classes including a Horse of the Year Show qualifier, a six bar, accumulator and the show’s curtain call, the Wetherby Skips Grand Prix. The Saracens Horse Feeds Arena Eventing classes at 100cm, 90cm and new for this year, 80 cm are a huge favorite on Sunday while local Pony Club teams will be in action all weekend with show jumping and mounted games – many a top rider started their journey to the top in The Pony Club so you may see future medalists in action.
Kirkbourne Spaniels join in the action once again for working dog demos in the Defender arena and the team is also going to be holding dog scurry competitions adjacent to the agility arena throughout the event – something for the canine visitors to enjoy as well as their owners.
Everyone loves a spot of shopping and eating and Bramham’s 160 outlet village has something for every taste – culinary and otherwise. Our title sponsors Defender will be in the heart of the village as well as our 2025 charity partners, Equine Pathways UK, locally based in Leeds.
The team offers equine assisted therapy to improve the lives of children and adults with mental and physical disability. Make sure you drop by their stand to learn more about their crucial work, which makes a real difference. On Friday and Saturday, two of their super star ponies will be in attendance to meet and greet you. They’ll be operating a bad drop so if you can park any shopping while you enjoy your day for a small donation. You can also support their raffle or purchase something from their range of merchandise.
Interested in joining us? Save time and money by booking your Bramham tickets in advance – but hurry, prices will rise on 02 June. Admission tickets start at £18 for over 17s and there’s further savings on weekend and season passes. You’ll also need a car park ticket for your vehicle so don’t forget that – there’s a day, weekend and season option. Upgrade yourself to VIP status with Membership tickets which give you access to the arenaside Members’ pavilion with CCTV, coffee shop, bar and snacks – numbers are limited so it’s worth booking ahead with your entry tickets.
For those who like to be at the heart of the action, we also offer a campsite facility for any type of accommodation with shower and toilet facilities – you can book for a season pass or weekend – but hurry, bookings are limited, and the weekend package is nearly sold out!
Event Director Nicholas Pritchard commented; “We’ve had a fantastic spring on the Bramham Estate with the Park looking truly radiant and green. We’ve welcomed Andrew [Heffernan] and David [Evans]for a few visits and the estate staff are working hard to provide the very best for all our visitors. Andrew brings a new perspective, and I think everyone’s going to love his vision.
“The team and I are in final countdown mode with plans well advanced for what we hope will be another memorable chapter in Bramham’s history. The Lane Fox family and Bramham team are looking forward to welcoming competitors, their connections, our army of officials and volunteers, our sponsors and of course our visitors.”
Visit the website www.bramham-horse.co.uk for all the news, lowdown and ticket information. Follow us on, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook as we countdown to the 2025 Defender Bramham Horse Trials!
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Bramham Media Contact:
Winnie Murphy, Press Officer – winsome22@live.co.uk or 07967 186556.
Media accreditation closes on 25 May so get any last minute applications in – Media – Defender Bramham International Horse Trials.
Passes will be mailed on Tuesday 27 May.
