It’s the end of dressage day two at Mars Badminton 2025 — and the leaderboard is taking shape.

Today on the Badminton Tour Diaries, Nicole and Diarm catch up on the standout performances so far, including Oliver Townend’s test with Cooley Rosalent taking him into the lead going into Saturday. From shifting averages to judging patterns, they break down what it all means heading into the weekend.

We also check in with Eco Voltz rider Joseph Murphy, who reflects on his two rides — including the promising young Belline Fighting Spirit — and gives us insight into his prep for cross-country day (spoiler: e-bikes are a game-changer).

Selina Milnes talks about Gelmer’s sensitive side and shares her cross-country thoughts ahead of Saturday’s test, while Lucy Miles joins us in the YETI Grooms’ Corner with a brilliant behind-the-scenes look at Tayla Mason’s whirlwind Badminton debut with Centennial — from waitlist drama to family reunions and team Kiwi spirit.

Highlights:

• Personal Bests & Predictions – Nicole and Diarm unpack dressage day 2
• Joseph Murphy – Two horses, one busy week, and a bold Saturday ahead
• The Gelmer Game Plan – Selina Milnes on managing nerves and big fences
• Grooms Behind the Scenes with YETI – Lucy Miles on grooming, motherhood, and five-star life

Guests:

• Diarmuid Byrne – EquiRatings co-founder
• Joseph Murphy – Eco Voltz rider and five-star competitor
• Selina Milnes – Five-star rider
• Lucy Miles – Former head groom for Team Price, now grooming for Tayla Mason
• Nicole Brown – Host, EquiRatings Eventing Podcast

The Eventing Podcast Badminton Podcast Diaries are brought to you by Eco Voltz, Voltaire Design, 247 Clothing Direct, and YETI — brands that support the sport and the stories that shape it.

• Eco Voltz – Makers of premium electric bikes for countryside life and competition days. Visit them at Stand 44 or explore the range at www.ecovoltz.co.uk.
• Voltaire Design – Handcrafted French saddles trusted by elite riders across the world. Find them at Stand 243 and online at www.voltairedesign.com.
• 247 Clothing Direct – Premium custom clothing designed with style, quality and performance in mind. They’re not exhibiting this year, but you can browse the range at https://www.247clothingdirect.co.uk/ 

EquiRatings Eventing Podcast:

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It’s Thursday at Mars Badminton 2025, and the stories are already building.

In today's Badminton Tour Diaries, Nicole and Diarm catch up on the standout dressage performances from day one — from Tom McEwen’s personal best to Oliver Townend’s score on Ballaghmor Class — and unpack what it means for the weekend ahead.

Nicole catches up with Lara de Liedekerke-Meier on her return to Badminton — joined by her husband, coach, trainer and Belgian team chef d’équipe, Kai-Steffen Meier— as they reflect on her test from today, the cross-country track, and what it means to ride at the sport’s pinnacle.

We also go inside the Will Rawlin Eventing Experience with Sarah French and Jane Jessop, who offer a fresh take on five-star ownership — and how syndicates like this are opening up the thrill of top-level sport to passionate supporters across the country.

Grassroots rider Brian Leung, a British Army Reservist, shares his inspiring journey from late starter to qualifying for the LeMieux Grassroots Championships — and what it means to ride at the iconic grounds of Badminton House. 

We’ve also teamed up with YETI to spotlight the teams behind the scenes — starting with head groom to Susie Berry, Chrisy Salmon, on the magic, chaos, and care that makes five-star possible

Highlights:

• Back at Badminton – Lara on her dressage, the track, and wearing many hats with Kai
• Accessible Ownership – Behind the scenes with the Will Rawlin Eventing Experience
• From Service to Start Box – Brian’s grassroots path and what it means to represent the military
• Grooms Behind the Scenes – Chrisy Salmon shares what it takes to care for five-star horses

Guests:

• Lara de Liedekerke-Meier – Five-star winner and back at Badminton with her homebred mare

• Kai-Steffen Meier – Belgian team coach and five-star rider

• Brian Leung– Grassroots competitor and British Army Reservist

• Jane Jessop & Sarah French – Members of the Will Rawlin Eventing Experience

• Chrisy Salmon – Head groom to Susie Berry

The Eventing Podcast Badminton Podcast Diaries are brought to you by Eco Voltz, Voltaire Design, 247 Clothing Direct, and YETI — brands that support the sport and the stories that shape it.

• Eco Voltz – Makers of premium electric bikes for countryside life and competition days. Visit them at Stand 44 or explore the range at www.ecovoltz.co.uk.
• Voltaire Design – Handcrafted French saddles trusted by elite riders across the world. Find them at Stand 243 and online at www.voltairedesign.com.
• 247 Clothing Direct – Premium custom clothing designed with style, quality and performance in mind. They’re not exhibiting this year, but you can browse the range at https://www.247clothingdirect.co.uk/ 

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.

Badminton is officially underway — and The 2025 Badminton Tour Diaries are rolling. 

We’re on-site all week with daily episodes capturing the stories, the people, and the moments you won’t hear anywhere else. Today, Nicole Brown and Sam Watson kick things off from the iconic Badminton House ahead of the first horse inspection — with early thoughts on the field, fresh course insights, and a whole lot of five-star feeling. 

Plus, hear from Susie Berry on Clever Trick’s return and Jane Hunter-Walsh on how the British Eventing Support Trust is supporting riders from BE80 to five-star.

Highlights

• A live look at Mars Badminton 2025 as it begins
• Sam Watson on what makes this year’s field so strong — and why JL Dublin vs. Graffalo is the matchup to watch
• Walk-the-course first impressions and key cross-country insights
• Susie Berry on pressure, preparation, and her ride Clever Trick
• Jane Hunter-Walsh on how the British Eventing Support Trust is helping riders at every level

Guests

• Sam Watson – Five-star rider, co-founder of EquiRatings, and in the saddle this week
• Susie Berry – Irish Olympic rider, back at Badminton with Clever Trick
• Jane Hunter Walsh – General Manager of the British Eventing Support Trust
• Nicole Brown – Host of the Eventing Podcast

The Eventing Podcast Badminton Podcast Diaries are brought to you by Eco Voltz, Voltaire Design, 247 Clothing Direct, and YETI — brands that support the sport and the stories that shape it.

• Eco Voltz – Makers of premium electric bikes for countryside life and competition days. Visit them at Stand 44 or explore the range at www.ecovoltz.co.uk.
• Voltaire Design – Handcrafted French saddles trusted by elite riders across the world. Find them at Stand 243 and online at www.voltairedesign.com.
• 247 Clothing Direct – Premium custom clothing designed with style, quality and performance in mind. They’re not exhibiting this year, but you can browse the range at https://www.247clothingdirect.co.uk/ 

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.

He’s 19. He’s a four-time Adelaide winner. And now, WillingaPark Clifford has etched his name into five-star history. In a weekend that delivered emotion, legacy, and a touch of heartbreak, Hazel Shannon’s legendary partner reminded the world exactly what makes a champion.

Nicole Brown is joined by Sharon Ridgway to relive Clifford’s record-setting triumph, the scenes behind the scoreboard, and the stories that defined the final five-star before Badminton. From the shock elimination of a podium favourite to a rising star’s breakthrough, this isn’t just about results — it’s about the moments that made Adelaide unforgettable.

Highlights:

• Clifford’s fourth Adelaide win — and the roar it deserves
• Sophia Hill’s heartbreak and the jump that wasn’t
• Shane Rose in vintage form with The Bandit and Easy Turn
• Sam Jeffree’s star turn and what’s next for Australia’s new generation
• The fences, form, and footwork that shaped the final leaderboard

Guests: Sharon Ridgway – Australian eventing insider Nicole Brown – Host, EquiRatings Eventing Podcast

🎧 Brought to you by Equilume, supporting our Adelaide 5* coverage — 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 third five-star in as many weeks is here — and the 2025 Mars Badminton Horse Trials is shaping up to be a classic.

The 2025 Mars Badminton Horse Trials is packed with pressure, prestige, and serious horsepower. Big names, big form, and storylines at every turn — from returning champions to rising stars, it’s all on the line. This is your inside look at the contenders, the course, and the stats that could shape the weekend.

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.

• 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

• 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:

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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!