Meet our Ambassadors

Carl Hester, a luminary in the equestrian world, is a highly esteemed British dressage rider and trainer. Renowned for his exceptional skills and contributions to the sport, Carl has left an indelible mark on the international dressage scene.

A pivotal figure in British dressage, Carl Hester's notable achievements include winning multiple national and international titles. He played a crucial role in securing Team Great Britain's historic gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, riding the iconic horse Uthopia.

Beyond his competitive success, Carl is widely respected for his commitment to the development of young talent and the promotion of equestrian education. He operates a world-class training facility at his Gloucestershire base, providing guidance to riders aspiring to reach the pinnacle of dressage excellence.

Carl Hester's influence extends far beyond the arena, as he is a charismatic ambassador for the sport. His dedication, sportsmanship, and passion for the well-being of horses have earned him universal admiration and respect, making him a true icon in the world of dressage.

Beginning as a typical child in pony clubs and riding schools, Freddy's fascination with natural horsemanship and horse behavior ignited at the age of 15. By 16, he departed from traditional schooling and immersed himself as a working student on a horsemanship yard, delving into the realms of classical dressage.

At 22, an unexpected turn led Freddy into the world of stunt and trick riding as he sought stables to launch his own horse training business. Over the next three years, he honed his skills as a trainee, mastering horse archery, trick riding, and performing on film and TV sets. During this time, Freddy proudly represented Great Britain in both trick riding and horse archery competitions.

Transitioning from his trainee role, Freddy dedicated himself entirely to his unique approach to horse training. Infusing principles from natural horsemanship and classical dressage, he crafted his distinctive style. Establishing his own business, Freddy expanded his horizons by developing a team of horses with his partner, creating captivating shows, and contributing as a stunt rider on various sets.

In his ongoing journey, Freddy Steele has evolved into a versatile equestrian professional. His latest ventures include confidence courses and clinics, where he imparts a wealth of knowledge gained from diverse horsemanship disciplines worldwide

Lydia is a Jamaican event rider and she founded Cool Ridings to celebrate and support underrepresented riders. Having begun Eventing in 2012, Lydia produced a number of young horses and notes her podium finish at Cornbury House International CCI-S 2* aboard her own 7-year-old Tullaher Lottie as the most special memory in her career to date.

Her future was uncertain following the heartbreaking death of her mother Claire in 2022, but now based with Canadian international eventer Mike Winter and his wife Emma, Lydia’s hopes for this year are to develop her partnerships with two horses owned by supporters David Howden and Carl Shuker and to get some international runs under her belt.

Lydia has experienced firsthand how important diversity is for underrepresented riders. Beginning her equestrian journey at a local riding school aged 11 with the support of her late Mother Claire, Lydia trained daily and showjumped at national level before committing to Eventing in 2012. Lydia obtained dual nationality and begun representing Jamaica in 2017. This is an achievement she knew would inspire others to venture into a sport where racial diversity is not typically high and soon Cool Ridings was born.