Burghley Horse Trials 2025

Last week was a massive milestone for us at Hyde Lodge Horses – 5 British event rider Alex Tordoff* got to compete at the Defender Burghley Horse Trials 2025 for the very first time. For Alex, riding at Burghley has been a lifelong dream, and to finally canter down that famous centre line was pretty emotional for the whole team.

He was partnered with Cool Jack (aka Colin), one of our top event horses, who has been a star all season. Together, they took on one of the toughest 5 eventing courses* in the world and were absolutely flying. Watching them jump iconic fences — including the legendary Cottesmore Leap — was a moment we’ll never forget.

Unfortunately, Alex’s Burghley debut didn’t get the ending we all hoped for. At fence 30, just two from home, Colin overreached and managed to pull off his overreach boot. He nicked his foot, which caused a small bleed, and under FEI eventing rules that means immediate elimination. It was gutting to get pulled up so close to the finish, but horse welfare always comes first and the rules are there for a reason.

The main thing is that Colin is completely fine and will be back out at events soon. Alex rode a really classy round, and even though they didn’t get to finish, it still felt like a huge achievement just to be there and show what they’re capable of.

Competing at Burghley Horse Trials has always been Alex’s dream, and now that he’s had a taste of it, this is just the beginning. We’re so proud of both him and Colin, and we’re already looking ahead to what’s next in their journey.

If you’d like to keep up with Alex, Colin, and the rest of the Hyde Lodge Horses competition team, or to find out more about our event horses for sale in Leicestershire, follow along with us here or on our socials.