EquiRatings Eventing Podcast

We’re on the other side of another five-star and what a weekend it was at Luhmühlen 2025. Diarm and Nicole break down all the headlines in this episode supported by FLAIR Strips. From Izilot's win and Laura Collett’s missed milestone, to Cosby Green’s breakthrough and what Sam Lissington’s result means for New Zealand. They tackle the bigger questions - judging ranges, high-performance trends, and whether Australia’s seat at the 'Big Six' table is in danger. Episode Highlights Izilot vs. Graffalo – A win for Ros, but is it enough for European selection?  Dressage Drama – Was Luhmühlen over-marked? Diarm breaks down the numbers behind the scores. That Arena Fence – 30% of the field faulted at 8B/C. Who rode it best, and was it fair Breakout Riders – Huge weekends for Sam Lissington (NZL) and Cosby Green (USA), both landing top finishes. Australia’s Big Question – Are they slipping out of the Big Six? Elo data says the pressure’s on. Hosts Nicole Brown – Host of The Eventing Podcast Diarmuid Byrne – Co-founder of EquiRatings Sponsors: FLAIR Strips are very kindly supporting our European 5* shows this year. FLAIR Strips are veterinarian-developed, drug-free nasal strips that help your horse breathe easier during exercise by supporting the soft tissues over their nasal passages. With proven benefits like reduced fatigue, faster recovery, and energy conservation, FLAIR Strips give equine athletes the respiratory support they need to perform at their best. FLAIR Strips proudly support many elite equestrian athletes including Alex Bragg, Buck Davidson, Bubby Upton, Yasmin Ingham, and Phillip Dutton. These are just some examples of top-level athletes that trust and rely on FLAIR Strips for their performance edge. Read more on Team FLAIR riders here. Check out the FLAIR Strips website and follow them on Instagram to see more! 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 all things eventing.  

We’re halfway through the 2025 eventing season, and it’s time to take stock. In this jam-packed episode, Nicole is joined by Sam, Spike, and Diarmuid for a full mid-season review. They look back on the standout five-star performances at Kentucky and Badminton, debate the dominance of Graffalo, Chipmunk, and London 52, and get stuck into some of the sport’s biggest questions—from judging controversies to phase influence to what makes a true five-star horse. Expect heated debate, expert insight, and plenty of name drops as the team maps out what’s happened so far—and what’s still to come. 🔍 Episode Breakdown 1. Graffalo vs. Chipmunk: The Rivalry Defining the Season A deep dive into the big wins at Kentucky and Badminton, comparing their HPRs, pressure performances, and championship potential. What separates these two legends—and where does London 52 fit in? 2. The Big Picture: Are We in a Golden Era? Sam makes the case for calling 2025 one of the greatest seasons of modern eventing, with generational talent peaking at once. Could we be witnessing a once-in-a-decade moment? 3. The Great Scoring Debate: Dressage, Cross Country & What Really Matters Does dressage have too much influence? Is the sport evolving in the wrong direction? Sam and Spike go head-to-head on phase weighting, training priorities, and whether we’re seeing the right kind of horses at the top. 4. European Championship Forecasts & Blenheim Speculation Who’s in the running for Team GB? The crew discusses likely selections, breakout performers like It's Cooley Time and Nickel 21, and how the second half of the season could shape team dynamics for the Europeans and Burghley. 5. American Power Plays: Reactions to the US Aachen Squad Nicole and Diarmuid unpack the US team announcement for Aachen, looking at the returning stars, the rising talent, and what it all suggests for Aachen World Championships in 2026. Bonus: why Jess Phoenix is one to watch. 👥 Featured Guests Nicole Brown – Host, commentator, and the podcast’s midfield general. Sam Watson – Elite eventer and numbers guru, calling for phase reform and deep appreciation for greatness. Spike Milligan – Eventing vet and voice of reason (sometimes), sparring with Sam over training philosophies. Diarmuid Byrne – Stat-backed sage with sharp takes on selections, trends, and what’s coming next. 📣 Call to Action Think Graffalo’s the GOAT? Backing Chipmunk to finish strong? Loving the rise of Nickel or It's Cooley Time? We want to hear from you! Drop us your thoughts on Instagram and make sure you’re subscribed to the podcast so you don’t miss what’s next.

We're straight back into five-star fever with a Luhmühlen Preview Show supported by FLAIR Strips. It is shaping up as a British battle, with London 52 leading the charge for a fourth five-star victory. But can anyone stop Laura Collett's phenomenon? From dressage records to European team implications, this weekend could reshape the summer's storylines. In this episode, Nicole Brown and Diarmuid Byrne break down the favourites and the form heading into one of the most compelling Luhmühlen fields in recent history. Highlights: London 52's Dominance – Three of the top four five-star finishing scores in 17 years and sub-21 finishes becoming the norm The British Superpower – Top six on prediction center all British ladies and a 95% win probability Ros Canter's Challenge – Can Izilot DHI upset the order? Kitty King's Quest – Vendredi Biats searching for that elusive five-star win European Implications – Could Luhmühlen results shake up Blenheim team selections? Dark Horse Picks – Wills Oakden with Keep It Cooley and Allison Springer's No May Moon Guests: Nicole Brown – Host of The Eventing Podcast Diarmuid Byrne – Co-founder of EquiRatings Sponsors: FLAIR Strips are very kindly supporting our European 5* shows this year. FLAIR Strips are veterinarian-developed, drug-free nasal strips that help your horse breathe easier during exercise by supporting the soft tissues over their nasal passages. With proven benefits like reduced fatigue, faster recovery, and energy conservation, FLAIR Strips give equine athletes the respiratory support they need to perform at their best. FLAIR Strips proudly support many elite equestrian athletes including Alex Bragg, Buck Davidson, Bubby Upton, and Phillip Dutton. Allison Springer, who is competing at this years Luhmühlen five-star is a proud Team FLAIR rider. She is just one example of top-level athletes trusting and relying on FLAIR Strips for their performance edge this weekend. Read more on Team FLAIR riders here. Check out the FLAIR Strips website and follow them on Instagram to see more! 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 all things eventing.

It’s one of the biggest weeks in the British eventing calendar – Defender Bramham! Nicole is joined by Saffron Cresswell for an exciting preview of the 4*-L and 4*-S classes, including the under-25 division. They discuss key contenders, young horses on the rise, new course designer changes, and who might be putting their hand up for European selection. Get ready for big predictions, fun facts, and plenty of insider buzz before the action kicks off. Listen for free wherever you usually get your podcasts. We’ve teamed up with Arc Microtech to bring you something special. ✨   ⚡ Support recovery before injury strikes. Whether you’re prepping for a competition or managing everyday wear and tear on you or your horse, the Arc4Health and ArcEquine  devices deliver powerful, drug-free therapy - no specialist training needed.   🧠 Designed to reduce inflammation, ease tension, and promote faster healing, ARC’s microcurrent tech fits right into your daily routine - on the yard, at home, or on the road.   💸 Use code EVEPOD30 for £30 off any complete kit! Or if you’re heading to Bramham this week go and visit the ARC team at Stand 39.   🛒 Shop now at www.arcmicrotech.com  

In a milestone moment for the sport, Harry Meade joins Nicole and Diarm to reflect on becoming FEI World Number One for the first time in his career.  From Midnight Dazzler to his six recent clear inside-the-time rounds across Burghley, Kentucky and Badminton, Harry takes us deep into the mindset, resilience, and team effort that have defined his extraordinary rise. Episode Highlights: Charlie’s Calculations: Harry’s son Charlie explains when he knew world number one was in reach - and why he kept it secret. Burghley to the Top: Diarm shares how the narrative of Harry’s climb to number one began at Burghley, including a special moment in the riders’ tent. A Purist’s Philosophy: Harry explains why he ignores scoreboards, doesn’t chase rankings, and treats each horse as an individual project built for the long game. Resilience & Recovery: A moving recount of Harry’s near-career-ending injury and the tragic loss of Wild Lone. Inside the System: From note-taking and team dynamics to psychological models, we get a look at the engine room of the Meade yard. Legacy & Longevity: Reflections on growing up as Richard Meade’s son, building his own path, and passing the torch to the next generation—perhaps even to Charlie. Guest Info: Harry Meade – The new FEI World Number One, British event rider, five-star podium finisher, and known for his methodical training approach and deep horsemanship. Charlie Meade – Eleven-year-old analyst in the making and unofficial EquiRatings recruit. Hosts: Nicole Brown Diarmuid Byrne 📣 Keep Up With Us: Follow @EquiRatings on Instagram for more interviews, data, and behind-the-scenes insights from the world of eventing.

In this episode, FEI Eventing World Number One Boyd Martin is joined by former World Number Ones Kim Severson and David O’Connor. All three have represented the United States at the highest level and bring decades of insight from what it takes to get to the top to which horses have made it possible. 📌 Episode Highlights: Celebrating a milestone - Boyd Martin as World Number One Kim Severson's golden era David O'Connor's Olympic legacy and the evolution of eventing Boyd's path to world number one Inspiration and mentorship  Building a competitive team The future of US eventing Looking ahead - goals and aspirations 👤 Guest Info: Boyd Martin – Current FEI World Number One in eventing and a four-time Olympian for Team USA Kim Severson –  Former FEI World Number One and a multiple Olympic medalist for Team USA David O’Connor – Former FEI World Number One and a multiple Olympic medalist for Team USA 🎙️ Hosted by: Annie Bishop and Diarmuid Byrne EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

What do you get when you mix a cloned five-star legend, rising Irish talent, and a four-star field full of firepower? A Millstreet weekend that’s anything but ordinary. In this Connolly’s Red Mills special, Nicole Brown and Sam Watson dig into the data, the drama, and the dark horses. From Chilli Morning IV’s much-anticipated four-star debut to big moves in the race for the Irish national title, it’s an episode that blends analysis, prediction, and a good dose of curiosity. Highlights include: Clone Watch: Chilli Morning IV steps up to four-star with Gemma Stevens — but what do the numbers say about the clone’s chances? Data-Driven Picks: A 38% win chance, top OBP (opposition beaten percentage), and the strongest dressage average in the field — Chilli IV is one to beat. Contenders to Know: Altitu (Patrick Whelan), Wilfred Lancer (Kevin McNab), and Killossery Kaptain (Laura Collett) all bring serious form to the table. Irish National Title in Play: The top-placed Eventing Ireland member in the 4*-S takes the crown — Sam’s betting big on a local name. Red Mills on the Ground: With best turned out prizes, nutrition support, and top products on site, Red Mills, Foran Equine, and Carr Day & Martin have the weekend covered. Guests: Nicole Brown – Host of the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast Sam Watson – Irish international rider and EquiRatings co-founder   EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

In this episode of When Nicole Met, brought to you by Bedmax, Nicole catches up with 17-year-old Oscar Fitzgerald — calm under pressure, quick to learn, and already making waves on the international circuit. With Supercilious, Our Old Fella, and Moonlight Charmer in his string, Oscar’s got the horsepower — and the hunger — to chase down some serious 2025 goals. From breezing young racehorses to training with legends like Pippa Funnell and William Fox-Pitt, he’s soaking up every bit of insight on his way to the top. They talk horsepower, headspace, and why sometimes your dad (Grand National-winning jockey Mick Fitzgerald) is the best mindset coach you’ve got. Highlights: Fast Learner – How riding racehorses sharpened his cross-country instincts Thoroughbred Power – Why ex-racers still have more to give, and his Cornbury goal Horsepower for 2025 – Meet Moonlight Charmer, Our Old Fella & Supercilious Top Advice – Lessons from Pippa, William, and growing up Fitzgerald Pressure Playbook – Mental sharpness, mindset resets, and thinking like a pro Guest: Oscar Fitzgerald – Junior international rider and one to watch for 2025    Sponsors: This show is very kindly supported by Bedmax. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Strawmax Stable Chat is back — and this time, Nicole puts EquiRatings co-founder Diarmuid Byrne in the hot seat. From the life advice that’s shaped how he works and lives to the one skill he really wishes he had (hint: it involves music and weddings), Nicole puts him through his paces with some unexpected prompts. This episode covers a bit of everything — thoughtful moments, surprising confessions, and the kind of honest, off-script honesty that makes Stable Chat what it is. Plus, a big shoutout to Strawmax — not just for the dust-free bedding, but for backing the podcast from the start. Highlights: Dee’s most-used apps (and why Instagram gets the block) The best advice he’s never forgotten Secret skills he wishes he had — and where they’d come in handy Why supporting small equestrian podcasts matters more than ever Guest: Diarmuid Byrne: Co-founder of EquiRatings and today’s surprise guest in the Stable Chat seat. Follow the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast for more Strawmax Stable Chats, with new guests joining us each month. EquiRatings Eventing PodcastDon't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Want comfier beds, happier horses, and a yard that runs like a dream? Strawmax has you covered. Check them out at strawmax.com and follow @strawmax_bedding for tips, behind-the-scenes content, and yard inspo straight from the source.

Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo made history — again. Two years after their first Badminton win, they’re back on top, becoming the first-ever pair to reclaim the title. It was a win that meant a lot, not just to the scoreboard, but to the people behind it. This episode has it all: big moments, bigger reactions, and the little stories that stuck with us. From Colorado Blue’s masterclass to heartbreak for Cooley Rosalent, and from Katie Magee’s breakout to Taylor Mason’s last-minute arrival and top-20 finish — there’s plenty to unpack. Highlights: A historic win for Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo — the first-ever pair to reclaim a Badminton title Emotional tribute to Caroline Moore and what the moment meant for Team Canter Colorado Blue and Austin O’Connor deliver one of the most polished rounds of the day Final-phase heartbreak for Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent Harry Meade climbs the leaderboard with two in the top six — and eyes World No. 1 Katie Magee and Taylor Mason step into the spotlight with breakout performances Guests: Tilly Berendt – Equine journalist with a sharp eye and sharper wit Catherine Austen – Longtime eventing reporter and editor with years of insight Harry Meade – Double top-six finisher, discussed live with his children Charlie Meade – Breaks down the FEI World Rankings like a pro Lily Meade – Shares her riding ambitions and reflections Sarah Charley – Groom of Lordships Graffalo Archie Saul – Co-owner of Lordships Graffalo Adam Short – Groom to Tom McEwen and JL Dublin Siobhan Binns – Groom to Will Rawlin Georgia Hatton-Brown – Will Rawlin's partner and team manager Ros Canter – 2025 Mars Badminton Champion 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