Sophia Hill’s journey into the world of horse riding began with a childhood obsession with horses. Her relentless passion led her to Pony Club after she finally got her first pony, Little Sally, at nine years old. It was there that she discovered eventing, igniting a lifelong dedication to the sport. Sophia’s commitment and love for eventing have driven her to compete at the highest levels, including her current campaign in the UK for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Her experiences, challenges, and triumphs on this journey highlight her resilience and dedication to the sport she loves. Read below as we go behind the scenes of what its really like to campaign overseas for the Paris 2024 Olympics
How did you first get into horse riding, and what sparked your passion for eventing?
I was obsessed with horses growing up. I didn’t have my own horse until I was nine, and I spent the years before that begging my parents for one! When I got my pony, Little Sally, I joined Pony Club, and it was from there that I was introduced to eventing.
What has your experience been like campaigning in the UK? Can you share some of the positives and challenges you’ve encountered?
It has been an incredible experience to campaign in the UK. The sheer number of high-level horses is astounding. I have been competing in classes with around 100 4 star horses in them, something we just don’t have at home! The standard is very high too. At Bicton Four Star there were over thirty sub 30 dressage scores. The cross-country courses have been considerably more difficult with more use of the terrain, lots of drop fences, and incorporating more related lines into fences that may ordinarily be simple galloping fences, such as a trakhener.
Everyone over here has been incredibly friendly and encouraging, which is lovely. I think the biggest challenge has been not having some of the things (perhaps luxuries!) we are used to having at home. The main things that come to mind are: the horse truck, electric bike, and a groom!!!
Can you describe your current training regimen and how it is tailored to prepare you and your horses for the rigors of Olympic-level competition?
The horses are ridden 6 days a week. This usually consists of 1 gallop, 1 jump, 3 dressage schooling days, and the final ride might be hack out or a small jump. We train all the elements of competition, and try to have a holistic approach, whilst giving extra attention to areas that can improve our performance. Whilst being based over here I have been making the most of the fantastic coaching available and have been training with Nicola Wilson.
Which competitions are you focusing on during your campaign in the UK, and why are they critical for your Olympic qualification?
In planning my Olympic campaign, I selected events that would show off my horse’s strengths, whilst also trying to give myself the best possible preparation for plan B – Burghley! Therefore, I chose to go to Bicton and Bramham 4 star. These are two of the most prestigious four-star shorts in England, known for having tough cross-country tracks. Hughie jumped double clear around both events, which was fantastic preparation for Burghley, and showed the selectors that if they want a Finish-on-dressage score horse, they can’t look past Hughie!
From here I was hoping to prove the same at Aachen, whilst extending my team experience, however I was unfortunately selected as reserve and did not get the run.
Whilst I did not get selected for Paris either, I am thrilled to be attending to pre-Olympic training camp in Belgium as a reserve. Hopefully it is one step closer to future selection!
How do you ensure that your horses are performing at their peak, and what are some unique aspects of your partnership with them?
Obviously training, fitness and nutrition is a huge part of horses performing well at their peak. They must be trained for the job, they have to be fit enough, and they have to be in good health and condition.
In terms of my partnership with them, I think I have quite a unique partnership with Hughie, who I have had for so many years now. We both know each other so well. He thinks for himself, which is a blessing when jumping, but not so much in the dressage! On cross country I show him the way and then try to leave him alone as much as possible so he can get on with it!
Basil is much less experienced so I help him out a lot more, taking more time to set up for things so he can read and understand the questions properly.
How do you maintain mental focus and resilience during such an intense and high-stakes campaign?
I think the important thing is to break the campaign and each event into small parts and look at it that way. If you take one thing at a time and then try to do your best at it, it is less daunting. Then when doing that one thing, I have a process I always go through, regardless of the event or where I am. Of course, with a campaign like this I put a lot of pressure on myself to do well, but I’m also realistic about my expectations to avoid disappointment.
Who are the key members of your support team, and how do they contribute to your preparation and success in eventing?
My husband Andy is my number 1 supporter and is incredibly invested in this campaign with me. From shoeing the horses, to helping as groom, to Dad duties with Oliver – the list really goes on and on! It has gotten to the point that Andy has watched so many of my dressage lessons that he sometimes gives me advice in the warmup!
My Mum has been a huge support for this trip too. She has been catching up with friends and holidaying in England while we are here, and then attending each event as babysitter!
We also have a team at home who are keeping things in order while we are away: Andy’s Dad Steve, and Michaela and Ros!
What are your favourite Cavalor products, and how do they support the health and performance of your horses?
I have a few favourites! Cavalor Electroliq Balance is a must have for the warmer months! The ‘Take it Easy Forte’ Paste is great for younger horses that find competition stressful, to help take the edge off! ArtiTec is quite amazing, supporting both joints and soft tissue!
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to succeed in the equestrian space?
Try and learn from the people who are the best in the sport, or even better, those that train the best riders.
Also, you’re only as good as your best horse, so if you have a good horse, don’t sell it! If you don’t have a good horse, the harder you work, the luckier you get!
For women – if you want to have a family, don’t let horses get in the way of that. The horses will still be there, and a short break doesn’t have to ruin your career! (Plus, children make you laugh, horses make you swear!)
Beyond Paris 2024, what are your long-term goals in eventing, and how do you plan to achieve them?
Being shortlisted for Paris has made the goal of going to the Olympics seem a little less crazy and a lot more achievable. I will definitely be working hard towards producing and preparing horses for future championship teams.
Thank you so much to Sophia for giving us all an insiders exclusive to what it's like to campaign overseas for the Paris 2024 Olympics!
Want to follow Sophia's journey online ? Make sure to follow her on her Instagram : @sophiahillequestrian
