Paris Olympics Team Eventing Gold Medal winner and Individual Eventing Bronze Medal winner, Laura Collett MBE, will join equestrian influencer, Megan Elphick in the return of the Grassroots to Glory masterclass at London International Horse Show led by British Equestrian’s Eventing Performance Manager, Richard Waygood MBE. Part of the LeMieux Masterclass Series, this very popular event will take place on Friday 20 December in The New Horizon Plastics London Arena.
The 45-minute session promises to be a highlight of the Show and has proved very popular in the past. It will offer a comprehensive exploration of the path to competitive success, tailored to inspire and educate riders of all levels, from aspiring amateurs to seasoned competitors.
Spectators can expect an engaging and informative experience, featuring demonstrations of advanced techniques as well as practical, step-by-step exercises that can be implemented at home. Drawing from his extensive career, Richard Waygood will guide the audience through the essential stages of building a successful competition partnership. From establishing strong fundamentals to refining techniques and making pivotal advancements in competition, Waygood will share invaluable insights and personal tips throughout the class.
Aside from serving as the British Equestrian Federation’s Technical Director and Eventing Performance Manager, Richard’s accomplishments include competing at prestigious competitions including the Badminton and Burghley Horse Trials, a distinguished tenure as Riding Master of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, as well as being awarded an MBE for his services to equestrianism in 2009.
Speaking about the upcoming masterclass, Waygood remarked, “I’m delighted about the return of the Grassroots to Glory masterclass at London International Horse Show this year. Last year’s session with Laura and Megan was a fantastic blend of fun, innovation, and valuable learning for our audience. With the excitement of British Eventing’s recent success at the Paris Olympics, I’m eager to share new insights and experiences that will make this year’s masterclass even more impactful.”
Laura Collett, a familiar face at London International, returns to the Show fresh from her remarkable achievements at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where she secured both team gold and individual bronze with her outstanding partner, London 52. In addition to her Olympic triumphs, Laura has enjoyed a stellar season which included victory in the CCI4* at Burnham Market. As the current World No.7 in international eventing, her participation in this masterclass presents a rare and invaluable opportunity for the Show’s audience to learn from one of the sport’s most elite riders.
Megan Elphick, known for inspiring thousands through her online chronicles of the grassroots journey, will bring her unique perspective and relatability to the masterclass. Her participation will see her demonstrating the foundational elements of horse education alongside Richard and Laura, bringing practical knowledge to life for the audience.
Simon Brooks-Ward, Show Director, said, “We are delighted to welcome back Richard, Laura, and Megan to the Show this year. This is a very popular masterclass and its inclusion in the LeMieux Masterclass Series presents our audience with a great opportunity to access world-class knowledge and insight.”
