Francis Whittington is fast gaining a reputation as being a strong medal contender in the world of British Eventing. His talent was certainly noticed on the circuit as he rose through the Pony Club competitions securing many of the top places. Early success came as Francis won Individual Gold and Team Silver at the Pony European Championships in Hasselt, Belgium with North Down Nova, when he was just 16 years old. Since then he has been notching up numerous high profile wins and placings and has beaten some of the world's finest event riders. With wins at Gatcombe Park and clears around Badminton, Francis has a strong team of novice and advanced horses. He has his sights set on being part of the 2012 London Olympic team.

A popular trainer himself, Francis has plenty of advice for eager eventers:

“If you have put in the ground work before the event, you shouldn’t have a problem, but you must believe in yourself and your horse’s ability, before you even get there. If you find you are having the same problem, try and find the common fault, sometimes only an experienced eye can pin point the exact problem, so try and get some experienced help! Make sure you don’t get in front of the movement and keep your leg on. The only complicated bit is staying between the flags but I find thinking along those lines really helps me stayed focused and relaxed. If you do have the bad luck to fall off – make sure you get out of the way …and quickly!

Francis Whittington
International Event Rider (who finds it hard to stay on top!)

Francis also recently got married, however their honeymoon was cut short…..because of Francis’ eventing commitments –now who said romance is dead?!!