This episode of In Stride is sponsored by VetCS. VetCS is an equine veterinarian–founded company creating science-backed hemp products for everything from joint support to calming solutions for stressful situations. Their clean, consistent formulas are made by horse people who truly understand horses. Visit https://vetcs.com/pages/in-stride to purchase and use code InStride20 for 20% off. 

This episode is also sponsored by The Equestrian College Advisor. Navigate the college search with confidence and find the right fit for both academics and riding. Visit equestriancollegeadvisor.com to learn more and book a consultation.  

In this episode of “In Stride,” Sinead is joined by Olympic eventing course designer Pierre Le Goupil. 

Pierre Le Goupil is an internationally respected eventing course designer and lifelong horseman whose career began with more than two decades of competing internationally. He and his family established the event Le Grand Complet on their farm in Normandy, a competition that grew into one of the major horse trials in France and later relocated to Haras du Pin. After transitioning from riding to course design, Le Goupil went on to design at top FEI events around the world and was appointed as the cross-country course designer for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.  

Pierre reflects on his journey to becoming one of the world’s leading course designers and what shaped his approach to the sport, including: 

• The qualities he believes define a truly great course designer 

• How cross-country course design has evolved over the years and how that evolution has influenced the horses themselves 

• His experience designing the cross-country course for the 2024 Paris Olympics, and how he balanced challenge and global expectations 

• The pressure and responsibility that come with the role, and the strategies he uses to stay mentally grounded 

Join Pierre and Sinead for an insightful conversation about what it takes to design cross-country tracks on the world stage. 

In Stride is brought to you by Ride iQ.

Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.

If you want to give it a try, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com⁠.

Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Ask An Expert is your go-to podcast for practical, real-world advice from top equestrian professionals. From improving your riding to mastering everyday horse care, our experts break it all down. Listen wherever you get your podcasts: https://pod.link/1776969830