We are excited to announce the latest addition to its LeMieux Masterclass Series, “Mastering Show Jumping – Achieving Harmony, Communication, and Balance in Every Round”, taking place on Sunday 22nd December in the New Horizon Plastics London Arena.
The highly anticipated Masterclass will feature 16-year-old Show Jumping prodigy Tabitha Kyle, alongside three-time Hickstead Derby champion John Ledingham. The 45-minute session promises to provide valuable insights for equestrians of all levels, with Ledingham sharing his expert philosophy on how to achieve harmony between horse and rider. Kyle, with her impressive track record, will offer live demonstrations of Ledingham’s techniques, giving the audience a real-time look at how to enhance partnerships in Show Jumping.
Despite her young age, Kyle has already established herself as a major force in the sport. In 2017, she recorded an astonishing 98 wins, and her success has continued to grow year on year. Some of her standout achievements include team bronze medals at the Children on Horses European Championships in 2019 and 2021, winning the Pony Show Jumper of the Year at Horse of the Year Show in 2020, as well as being part of medal winning teams in several youth FEI Nation Cup™ competitions. Kyle has a long association with London International Horse Show, having first competed in 2016, she claimed the 148cm class in 2022, and qualified for the Yeti Under-25 British Showjumping Championship in 2023, although was unable to compete in this class due to injury.
John Ledingham is regarded as one of Ireland’s most successful show jumpers. With victories spanning five Aga Khan Cups in Dublin, competing in more than 60 Irish FEI Nations Cup™ teams and three Hickstead Derby wins (1984, 1994, and 1995), Ledingham’s career is a true testament to his deep understanding of horses. He is a strong advocate for creating a symbiotic relationship between horse and rider, where success comes from mutual understanding and communication.
“It is a privilege to be part of London International Horse Show and present this Masterclass,” Ledingham said. “Riding should be enjoyable and rewarding for both the horse and rider. It is not a test of strength, but a partnership built on trust and communication. I look forward to working with Tabitha, whose skills will provide a captivating and educational demonstration for the whole crowd.”
The “Mastering Show Jumping – Achieving Harmony, Communication, and Balance in Every Round” LeMieuxMasterclass will offer practical advice for riders on how to develop a relaxed, responsive, and confident jumping horse. Key topics will include techniques for helping horses collect, lengthen, and maintain balance and suppleness, providing everyone in the arena with a well-rounded understanding of how to enhance their own Show Jumping skills.
Simon Brooks-Ward, Show Director, commented, “We are delighted to welcome John Ledingham to this year’s Show. His collaboration with the incredibly talented Tabitha Kyle will undoubtedly provide the audience with invaluable knowledge and a unique learning experience.”
The “Mastering Show Jumping – Achieving Harmony, Communication, and Balance in Every Round” Masterclass takes place in the New Horizon Plastics London Arena on Sunday 22nd December at 12:15. To purchase your tickets to the London International Horse Show 2024, please click here.
