History was made at the Badminton International Horse Trials as 2Lt Brian Leung (RLC) became the first serving military rider to compete in its National Grassroots Eventing Championships.
Having completed a rigorous qualifying process in 2024, the reservist – riding eight-year-old Irish sports horse, Jay – started out with one of his best scoring dressage tests for the level.
He continued to impress in the showjumping, despite dropping a pole, but the cross-country phase proved a tough step as he fell from his horse at the tenth fence.
“A misjudged jump at an obstacle led to a swift ejection,” Leung said.
“Thankfully, we were both uninjured. Sometimes these types of mistakes are the ones we learn most from. “What made this extra special was the fact myself and Jay have progressed through the development pathway that has been established within the Army Equestrian Association.
“This highlights the support that is now available.” Follow Army Equestrian on Facebook and @ArmyEquiUK on Instagram for updates from the sport and details on how to get involved.