A SEASONED event rider from Cheshire is gearing up for his 13th appearance at one of the sport's most iconic competitions.
Nantwich-based Michael Owen, 47, will return to the Defender Burghley Horse Trials in Lincolnshire from September 3, riding his 11-year-old gelding Darwin.
It marks the pair’s second appearance together at the elite 5* level.
Mr Owen said: "I first competed there 26 years ago (with Perks of the Job) and I remember my first ride around there like it was yesterday.
"I couldn’t believe how big the fences were or how many thousands of people were there watching in the crowds – it was just amazing.
"That’s probably my fondest memory and I’ve jumped numerous clear rounds there, on the likes of Highland Prince and Bradeley Law who gave me some amazing rides around there.
"I’ve got some really fond memories of Burghley, which is one of my favourite events.
"I’ve been there numerous times on different horses, but I never get tired of going because it’s such a magical event you dream of competing at."
Mr Owen and Darwin have competed together for six years, but this is their first season at 5* level.
Their debut came in May at the Badminton Horse Trials, where they finished 28th.
The rider believes the experience has prepared them well for Burghley.
He said: "We’ve had him since he was a four-year-old and he’s a real cheeky chappy at home, a real character.
"He loves jumping and he’s a big rangy Irish red horse.
"Jumping is his strength and he went round in his first 5* event at Badminton this year and stormed round clear and finished really well.
"It felt like he was born to do it."
He said: "He’s had a light campaign to freshen him up – I didn’t want him too tired and sour by the end of the season, which can happen with a horse."
He believes the gelding is well-suited to the demands of the event.
He said: "I think he’s a Burghley horse – you don’t quite know until you get there, but he should relish it.
"He ticks all the boxes to be a Burghley horse, so I’m really looking forward to it."
Defender Burghley Horse Trials (September 3-6 2025) has been a major international sporting and social event for over 50 years.
It attracts the world's top equestrians and is attended by vast and enthusiastic crowds.
For more information visit www.burghley-horse.co.uk
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