Starting today we follow a year in the life of local Sussex event rider Ben Leathers. What we will learn along his journey will open our eyes into the competitive world of British Eventing. The trials and strengths needed to succeed and the determination of mastering the combination of all three disciplines.
Ben’s background differs only to the majority entering this sport and aiming for the top is that he’s Australian. Born to British parents who moved back to the UK when he was 15. However, he’s had no advantages to entering this sport, no special treatment. He’s earned his place in equestrianism through his love of horses, his chosen career path and his self-belief and determination that he can get there – just like anyone wanting to succeed, it’s possible, if only we have the skills the know how and the will.
Ben was one of five siblings all of whom were first introduced to horses by his leisure riding and horse owning mum. However, he was the only one who remained passionate in equestrianism from a very young age and continues to be inspired by all the horses and ponies which have dominated his life ever since.
Having been successful during his childhood of competing, even amongst the seniors, he left Australia with 7 out of the 10 championships under his belt. He had also competed in the Royal Melbourne (UK equivalent of the Horse of the Year show) and qualified for the Royal Sydney and Royal Adelaide.
Influenced initially by his Australian coach and keen to build a career with horses, he took the route of getting his BHS qualifications whilst working and growing his experience at various yards. From course designing to teaching riders; Ben has always enjoyed sharing his passion and knowledge to others.
Now married and settled in Sussex, the Leathers family now own and manage a BHS approved livery business where Ben continues to train and compete on his own horse; Kauto Cyreo.
Last year Kauto wouldn’t jump a cross pole, napped at the water try and spooked at his own shadow. Ben’s continuous and progressive training programme proved successful last weekend when Kauto showed off his new confidence in winning both the BE90 & BE100 combined training. Making a positive start to the 2014 season.
To plan a season the first major hurdle is the diary organisation. A lot more complicated than first imagined but crucial in getting the most out of the season ahead. Ben spends a lot of time on this. The training can then follow to fit in with the now planned route for the first few months of the season.
British Eventing regulate as well as schedule more than 180 events throughout Britain that cater for nearly 94,000 entries per season (Mar-Oct). British Eventing has more than 11,000 members.
If you are one of those riders or not yet joined BE determined to progress, this article is for you. Follow Ben throughout 2014 starting off the year at the BE90 and follow his progress throughout the year.