Sam Hutton
The Netherlands-based showjumper on tackling six-bar gates, skiing and boogying
Looking back...
When I was in Pony Club, I offered to help a friend having problems getting a horse to jump an open water for the first time. I got the horse over, but he forgot to bring his legs back down to land, so guess where I ended up?
Getting away from it all...
Skiing is one of my all-time favourite getaway activities and we try to go every year to Austria.
Most memorable win...
Last year at the Gijon 5* Nations Cup. Great Britain won and my horse jumped clear for the team. It was an amazing experience to be part of such a great success.
Remembering when...
While warming up a young horse for the first time at Quob Stables in Hampshire, we jumped a fence and I cantered on towards the railings. He decided to jump the six-bar gate out of the warm-up arena, which was quite a shock for me and hilarious for everyone else!
My biggest indulgence...
Ben & Jerry’s Cookie Dough ice cream.
Funniest advice...
While walking the course at my first ever 1.50m Area Trial at Bicton when I had just turned 18, my trainer Tony Newbery joked, “if you get halfway round and nerves take over, don’t worry as the sponsor’s products are in the ring”. The class was sponsored by South West Loos!
My first pony... Arnie, an 11.2hh brown and white gelding. He was a super cheeky boy and kept me on my toes.
Letting my hair down...
I like to boogie, especially after a couple of Pimm’s!
Earliest equestrian memory...
Seeing John Whitaker riding Milton on TV when I was really young. He’s always been a great inspiration.
Competing at... Aachen — the crowd and atmosphere are amazing.
Settling down with...
An English newspaper. I’ve always been a bit addicted to news.
Visiting my favourite city...
London. I love going shopping and to the theatre. Covent Garden is one of my favourite areas.
My secret weapon is...
My CWD saddles which are custom made for me. They’re super comfy and bring out the best performance in my horses.
The biggest mistake I have learnt from…
Always fasten your helmet before you get on your horse. I was about to go on a hack when my horse spooked after I’d just mounted. My hat wasn’t secured and I fell off. So did the hat.
My best tip for warming up…
Let the horse have a breather between fences and never rush to go in the arena.
What I’d tell my 15-year-old self...
To pay more attention in language classes at school and that it’s okay to make mistakes with your riding. It will only make you a better rider in the future.
My money saving secret…
Look after your tack and it will look after you.
Best event after party...
Bolesworth. I loved the champagne reception in the castle.
‘He forgot to bring his legs back down to land, so guess
where I ended up?’