The life of an equestrian athlete is not a predictable one, but rarely does preparation for a major event involve 52 relentless hours of travel with little more than snatched moments of sleep on floors.
WILLIAM FOX-PITT
Remarkably, William Fox- Pitt’s biggest achievement at the Rolex Kentucky 4* event in the United States was turning up. Having negotiated his way round the volcanic cloud that disrupted his travel arrangements, he then won the event with Cool Mountain, one of a number of horses that are in training for 2012 Olympic selection.
It was an unforgettable experience in a career spanning 20 years. The ups and downs that all riders experience during this time have helped to shape William’s expectations. “You don’t dare hope that it might just happen,” he explains. “You hope for the best, but I think it’s also very important to expect the worst.
“I went to America for a top ten placing, and I just kept reminding myself that when I went to the show- jumping ring. You suddenly find yourself out there, and you completely lose sight of reality. I wanted to jump a clear round, and I felt pretty sick. When I went in the ring, I had a fence in hand, my horse doesn’t want to knock fences down and he always tries his heart out, I knew he would give it his best. I was thrilled with him.”
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Riding is in the blood of the man who was born and bred in London to parents who both rode around Badminton and Burghley. His achievements are many – holder of a record five wins at Burghley (along with Ginny Elliott and Mark Todd), winner at Badminton (2004), Gatcombe (four times) and a key member of the gold-winning British team at six European
Championships, being a three-time Olympian, winning team silver in Athens and team bronze in Beijing.
It’s no surprise that the focus now is on William’s home city, London, and the 2012 Olympics. This is the climax of work that began even before the previous Olympics in Beijing, preparing a team of horses to be at their competitive peak at three very different disciplines.
“The ups and downs that all riders experience during this time have helped to shape William’s expectations. “You don’t dare hope that it might just happen,”
The challenge now is to pick the right horse for the job when 2012 rolls around.
With so many uncertainties, it’s good to have something to rely on. Musto is proud to be associated with an equestrian athlete of formidable talent and dedication. It’s no small feat that William Fox-Pitt has remained such a consistent performer at the highest level of his profession. As preparations continue for London 2012, you can be sure he will be relishing the challenge ahead.
Top10 Tips for Show Jumping
1. Make sure you walk the course thoroughly.
2. Ensure you have the suitable tack on your horse; remember this may not be the same tack that you go XC in!
3. Ensure you have the appropriate studs in your horse shoes.
4. It is always a good idea to try and watch someone jump before you go, not as easy if you’re first to go!
5. Allow plenty of time to warm your horse up properly but be careful not to over school or over jump your horse – it is a fine line between doing enough and doing too much.
6. Get into the ring as early as possible so as to have a good trot round and allow your horse to see the ring.
7. Don’t start before the bell – it may seem obvious but it’s crucial!
8. When riding the course think about keeping a good even rhythm (for example, don’t let yourself get faster and faster or slower and slower).
9. Always look where you’re going. 10. Stay relaxed!
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