“I was advised not to, but my arrogant self thought I should anyway!” Find out how a chance text led to the an incredible opportunity for a talented British young rider...
Showjumper Olli Fletcher is heading off on the opportunity of a lifetime, all thanks to a chance text message to the world number one rider, Steve Guerdat.
The 17-year-old junior team and individual silver medal-winning rider has long admired the Swiss champion and decided to put the wheels in motion earlier this year.
“I’ve always wanted to train with him because I really admire his way of riding,” Olli told H&H. “Not every goal is a winning post for him – he has his targets and he achieves them.
The son of two top riders has claimed an impressive win to add to his CV at just 15 years
Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2025 with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now
Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her role as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her around the world reporting from shows and interviewing riders, connections and those involved behind the scenes. Since joining H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on every subject across the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to stable management — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She also has first-hand experience of working in the equestrian industry as a riding instructor and yard manager.
