14/04/2026
We have received the most lovely message from Jo Woodman - have a read: ๐
From the Veterinary Team
What a treat to be back at Kings Forest again for an early spring ride. Whilst the wind was a bit sharp there was no rain so conditions for horses competing was absolutely perfect. Not too hot, not too cold and not too wet โ an absolute bonus! By all accounts the going was as good as we all expect from this ride too and so was a great early season confidence and fitness builder for all horses, whatever their level and aspirations for this year.
With the main focus on FEI classes the veterinary team were all FEI accredited vets which gave competitors in all classes the benefit of very experienced opinions and advice. Entry levels were such that there was time to discuss anything further at the time if anyone wanted to. Very pleased to report that our lovely treatment vet Hannah Kelly had nothing serious to treat and was just able to give some advice for anyone whose horse sadly did not pass on the day for lameness.
And with Hannah doing treatments this gave our usual treatment vet Tom Eaton Evans his turn on the veterinary commission.
New to Kings this year and used for all riders was the amazing electronic timing system ably managed by Julian Garces and his team and coping with both FEI and national classes. Great experience for our novice riders and horses to be included in this and definitely far less admin for our stewards as a result.
Completion results across all classes was good and horses were looking fit and prepared for the classes they were entered for, which after such a horrible wet winter was a credit to those preparing and training them - well done all.
Commiserations to those whose result was not as they hoped โ endurance is such a tough sport and to fail a ride at any point, but particularly at the finish, is especially hard. Hopefully there will have been nothing serious amiss and all horses will come back fitter and stronger for the next one.
Thank you from all the vets, including our FEI testing vet James, to Di, Paul, Millie and all the ride volunteers for all their hard work organising and putting on an early season FEI ride and supporting classes. It ticks all the boxes for a spring ride and if you couldnโt be there you missed a treat. Hopefully see you all next year!
Jo Woodman PVC/FVD
