Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo Make History at Badminton Horse Trials, Victory Dedicated to Late Mentor
Ros Canter, riding Lordships Graffalo, secured a poignant victory at the Badminton Horse Trials, dedicating the win to her late coach and mentor, Caroline Moore, who passed away in March. Canter and Lordships Graffalo, affectionately known as “Walter,” achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first horse and rider combination to reclaim the Badminton title.
Emotional Win for Canter
Visibly moved after her win, Canter, 39, stated, “This was for Caroline.” Moore, a long-time mentor and friend, had been a constant presence throughout Canter’s career. “She was by my side my whole career, and this is the first time I’ve done anything like this without her,” Canter added, emphasizing Moore’s selfless dedication and the profound impact she had on her life.
Lordships Graffalo: A History-Making Horse
Lordships Graffalo’s victory marks a notable achievement in Badminton history. While five other horses have won the event twice, Walter is the first to regain the title after a previous win in 2023. Canter expressed her gratitude for the 13-year-old gelding, stating, “I’m so happy to have him in my life,” and acknowledged the support of his owners, Archie and Michele Saul.
Nerves and Triumphs in Showjumping
Canter admitted to feeling unusually nervous before the showjumping round, noting Moore’s absence. With support from Nick Turner and Chris Bartle during warm-up, Canter and Walter entered the arena in second place, behind Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent.Townend’s misfortune allowed Canter to take the lead. “The reason I didn’t watch Oliver is becuase I don’t wish bad on anybody,” said Canter.”I would have been happy with second. To win is the icing on the cake.”
Balancing Life and Equestrian Success
Acknowledging the demands of her busy life, Canter, a mother and instructor, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete at the highest level. She said, “Life’s pretty hectic with a little girl, lots of horses, teaching, and everything else. I’m lucky to have the opportunity to do this again.”
Beyond the historical importance of regaining the Badminton title, how did the win with Lordships Graffalo (“Walter”) represent the culmination of Ros Canter’s career and the legacy of caroline Moore’s coaching?
Ros Canter and Lordships graffalo: Badminton Triumph and a Tribute
Ros Canter and her astounding horse, Lordships Graffalo, have etched their names in history at the Badminton Horse Trials! This victory was especially poignant, dedicated to her late mentor, Caroline Moore. Let’s delve deeper into this inspiring story.
Q&A: Unpacking the Victory
Q: What’s so special about Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo’s win?
A: They made history by becoming the first horse and rider combination to *regain* the Badminton title.this is a remarkable feat, even though five other horses have won the event twice.
Q: Who was Caroline Moore, and why was this win so emotional?
A: Caroline moore was Ros Canter’s long-time coach and mentor. She passed away in March, making this victory a heartfelt tribute to her unwavering support and guidance throughout Canter’s career. Canter stated that Moore was by her side her whole career.
Q: What happened in the showjumping round?
A: Canter admitted to feeling nervous without Moore’s presence. She was in second place going into the showjumping,behind Oliver Townend. Townend’s misfortune allowed Canter to take the lead.
Q: How old is Lordships Graffalo, and what’s his nickname?
A: Lordships Graffalo, affectionately known as “Walter,” is a 13-year-old gelding.
Q: Were there any other notable riders in the competition?
A: Yes! Oliver Townend finished second with Cooley rosalent, and Austin O’Connor came in third with Colorado Blue [[1](https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/eventing/badminton-horse-trials-results-ros-canter-892530)].
Q: How does Ros Canter balance her equestrian career with her personal life?
A: Canter is a mother and instructor. She juggles the demands of a busy life, which includes a little girl, multiple horses, and teaching.
Q: What’s the secret to success in eventing?
A: While talent and hard work are crucial,having a strong support system,as Canter did with Caroline Moore,is invaluable. Find mentors, seek guidance, and always remember the bond with your horse!
Conclusion
Ros canter’s victory at Badminton is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and the power of mentorship. It’s a story that reminds us of the incredible bond between horse and rider and the importance of honoring those who have shaped our journey.