Charlotte Agnew (GBR)

Discipline - Eventing

Hometown - Kelso in the Scottish Borders, but now based near Cirencester

Number of years riding - 24?! If sitting classifies as riding!

Main career accomplishments to date:

• • 12th Blenheim CCI3* 2014
• • 3rd Hopetoun CIC3* 2013
• • 1st Brand Hall CIC1* 2013
• • 5th Luhmuhlen CCI4* 2012
• • 2nd Houghton CIC3* 2012
• • 2nd U21 Championships 2007
• • 5th Blair Castle CCI3* 2006
• • Team gold and fourth individually at YR European Championships 2007
• • Completing Badminton on Little Beau in 2008 aged 20.

 

Tell us about your first horse/pony

Merrylegs was a little dun Welsh Section A, who my Granny discovered advertised in the local paper. For the most part she was pretty well behaved, particularly compared to some of my later ones, and was absolutely beautiful. I actually won my first ever, and MUCH cherished trophy on her, in the leading rein class at the local show, and I can remember spending hours polishing it!

How did you get started in your discipline?

Through the Pony Club - there were always quite a few Pony Club ODE's in our area, which were always great fun, so it seemed the natural progression to have a go at some BE events when I got Little Beau.

Mentor/idol when growing up?

Ian Stark and Mary King

Proudest career moment?

Winning team gold and finishing fourth individually at the YR Europeans; it came after a lot of ups and downs, and a huge amount of hard work with Ian on Rooey's dressage.

Why do you ride?

I love the relationship you build with the horses.

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

I think I'd quite like to be a biker girl....

Favourite holiday destination?

I think Greece has a pretty good package - sun, sea, great food, a bit of culture and a bit of a party zone!

How do you unwind?

Generally when it's busy I go for a swim, which stops my brain whirring, but if I'm allowed proper relaxing time I'll go and see some friends.

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

I try not to be too superstitious...

Favourite Ariat product?

The Bromont Insulated H20 Tall Boots are a must have for the winter, but I absolutely love this year's A/W collection - the colours are fantastic!