This week’s Practical Horseman Podcast, sponsored by Purina, is with five-star eventer Lillian Heard Wood. She spoke with us in late October following her eighth-place finish at the Maryland 5 Star with her longtime partner LCC Barnaby.

To give you a little more background on Lillian, she has 16 CCI5* completions, including top-10 finishes at the Maryland 5 Star and top-20 finishes at the Badminton, Burghley and Kentucky CCI5*s. Originally from Poolesville, Maryland, Lillian developed a passion for eventing while competing in the United States Pony Clubs. She spent 10 years as a working student for Olympian Boyd Martin and five-star competitor Jan Byyny. Also, Lillian worked in Ireland and England in multiple international yards, most notably for Carol Gee of Fernhill Sport Horse Center. She runs her training business out of Lanefield Farm in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, alongside her husband, five-star eventer Ryan Wood.

In our discussion, Lillian talks about deciding to retire the 18-year-old LCC Barnaby from the five-star level, handling disappointment in the sport and celebrating personal successes.

About This Episode’s Sponsor, Purina

Confidently address your horse’s unique weight needs and help optimize their overall wellbeing with research-proven Purina Animal Nutrition feeds—designed by passionate equine nutritionists. Partner with Purina to nourish your horse to their optimal body condition. Explore weight management resources for your horse today at purinamills.com/feed-finder.

You can also follow @purinafeedgreatness on Instagram and @PurinaHorse on Facebook.