Former international showjumper Graham Fletcher reflects on the history and evolution of Britain’s major horse shows, highlighting the pioneering efforts of key figures like Raymond Brooks-Ward, Colonel Sir Mike Ansell, and Douglas Bunn. Fletcher recalls the challenging start of the London International Horse Show in 1972 during a severe recession, praising Brooks-Ward’s enthusiasm and innovative ideas that helped establish the event’s success. He also acknowledges the Horse of the Year Show’s rise to prominence under Ansell and Hickstead’s world-class facilities created by Bunn. However, Fletcher expresses concern over the current state of British shows, noting a decline in atmosphere and owner facilities compared to European events, questioning what has happened to the country’s once-leading role in the sport.

Additionally, Fletcher comments on the FEI’s recent decision to ban riders from using mobile phones while mounted in warm-ups, viewing it as a necessary safety measure especially for less experienced riders. He shares his own experiences trying to enforce similar rules with staff, recognizing the difficulty in changing habits but hoping the new regulations will be more effective. Overall, Fletcher’s piece is both a nostalgic tribute to the sport’s greats and a call to revive the passion and standards that once made British showjumping a global benchmark.