In this episode of “In Stride,” Sinead is joined by international 5* event rider Buck Davidson. Buck Davidson is a very accomplished and recognizable figure in international eventing. A three-time winner of the Markham Trophy and the 1996 Young Rider of the Year, he has represented the U.S. at the highest levels, including the Pan American Games, World Equestrian Games, and numerous CCI5* events. Davidson claimed team gold and individual bronze at the 2011 Pan Ams with Absolute Liberty and has three USEF CCI5*-L National Championships to his name. In recent years, he has continued to produce top results, including second- and third-place finishes at the 2021 Virginia International Horse Trials CCI4*-L with Cooley Candyman and Sorocaima, and a fifth-place finish at the 2022 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event with Carlevo. He runs BDJ Equestrian with his wife, Andrea, and is the father of two daughters. Most recently, he placed 13th at the 2025 Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event riding Sorocaima. In this episode, Buck discusses topics related to the sport of eventing, including: • His perspective on how competitions could evolve to become more engaging for spectators while also promoting smarter, more selective riding. • The importance of a rider prioritizing their horse’s well-being over competitive ambition. • The commitment, resilience, and mindset required to reach—and remain—at the top of the sport. • Striking a balance between trusting his own experience and staying open to continued learning and growth. Join Buck and Sinead in this exciting conversation on balancing elite performance with responsibility, growth, and the evolving future of the sport.