Tina Cook (GBR)

Discipline - Eventing

Hometown - Worthing, West Sussex

Number of years riding - 40

Main career accomplishments to date:

• • Team silver, World Championships, Normandy 2014
• • Team silver, London Olympics 2012
• • Team gold, World Championships, Lexington 2010
• • Individual and team gold, European Championships, Fontainebleau 2009
• • Individual & team bronze, Hong Kong Olympics 2008
• • Team gold at the World Championships, The Hague 1994
• • Individual silver at European Championships at the age of 22, in Seniors, Achelswang 1993
• • 5 medals at junior & young rider level (under 21)

 

Tell us about your first horse/ pony

I had a pony called Bow, who was about 25 years old. My first horse was Song & Dance Man who was 15.3hh and about 6 years old. I was 14 and he took me from pony club to Badminton!

How did you get started in your discipline?

I did a bit of everything in the Pony Club, but always loved the cross-country.

Mentor/idol when growing up?

My mother, as she was a very successful show jumper and eventer.

Proudest career moment?

Probably London 2012, as we seemed to defy all odds. Miners Frolic came back from colitis and near death and my father died five months beforehand.

Why do you ride?

I love the partnership and trust between horse and rider and the challenges in training to accomplish that trust.

If you weren”t a professional rider, what would you be?

A photographer, as I enjoy being artistic behind the camera.

Favourite holiday destination?

Barbados, on the beach.

How do you unwind?

Meet friends and do something normal and not horsey!

Do you have a good luck charm and if so, what is it?

No, as nothing stays consistently lucky.

Favourite Ariat product?

The Devon Pro or the Bromont Tall boots that I live in every day, they are warm in winter and so comfortable.