The goal all the way (at the World Equestrian Games – WEG) was Olympic qualification and I’m delighted. Every little thing didn’t go to plan, but the riders rose above it. They knew that whatever happened, they needed to deliver.
The riders all set out across country with massive determination and I’m immensely proud of them, even [individual] Clare Abbott who didn’t finish.
There was a moment of unrest when Sam had his showjumping stop, but he gritted his teeth and showed professionalism to get home.
I had a great team behind me — the grooms and owners, dressage trainer Terry Boon, showjumping trainer Ian Fearon, vet Hugh Suffern and farrier Nigel Perrott, who makes sure everyone’s got what they need.
This means we can plan for our up-and-coming horses and riders for the next two years, knowing we don’t have to chase FEI points or push young horses before they’re ready.