In this two-part episode of the Inside Scone series, Nicole Brown is joined first by Matthew Taylor, Director of Racing at Perth Racecourse, to talk about the build-up to the very first Scone Palace International Horse Trials. From pulling the event together in just 10 months to preparing seven cross-country tracks, Matt shares behind-the-scenes insight into course building, ground management, and what it means for Scottish eventing.

Then Spike the Vet steps in to join Nicole for a full preview of the feature classes — the CCI4*-L and CCI4*-S. They run through the EquiRatings Prediction Centre favourites, the ones to watch, and a few dark horses, with plenty of stats, form analysis, and rider backstories to set the scene for the weekend.

Episode Highlights:

• Matthew Taylor on merging racecourse and eventing expertise for year one at Scone
• How the team is tackling ground prep after a dry summer
• CCI4*-L contenders — from joint favourites Wills Oakden & Keep It Cooley to Daisy Berkeley’s Blenheim runner-up
• CCI4*-S favourites — why Laura Collett & London 52 could be tough to beat
• International challengers, dark horses, and form pointers for both classes
• What’s on across the weekend: grassroots championships, showing, show jumping, mounted games, and more

Guest Info:

• Matthew Taylor — Director of Racing, Perth Racecourse
• Spike Milligan — Equine Vet & regular EquiRatings Podcast contributor

Host:

• Nicole Brown

For tickets and event info: www.sconehorsetrials.com

Nicole Brown and Sam Watson dive straight into the newly announced Defender Burghley Horse Trials 2025 entry list — and the stories behind the names. With the course running in reverse for the first time since 2017 and an elite field taking shape, they discuss the contenders, the challenges, and the drama that could unfold.

Episode Highlights:

• The reversed Burghley track and how it could make time even tougher.
• Ros Canter & Lordships Graffalo’s huge Prediction Centre win chance — and the Badminton/Burghley double on the line.
• Vitali’s brilliance, Tim Price’s resilience, and the quest for a Burghley win.
• Colorado Blue’s stamina strengths and Ireland’s hopes.
• Harry Meade’s triple challenge and quest for a first 5* victory.
• Exciting returning and debuting combinations to watch.

Guests:

• Nicole Brown – Host of the EquiRatings Eventing Podcast.
• Sam Watson – International event rider, analyst, and EquiRatings co-founder.

EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

In this Inside Burghley bonus episode, Nicole Brown visits the venue just three weeks before Defender Burghley Horse Trials kicks off for 2025. Event Director Martyn Johnson and Course Designer Derek di Grazia share exclusive insights on final preparations, from reversing the track direction for the first time since 2017 to reimagining iconic features like the Trout Hatchery.

Episode Highlights

• Three Weeks to Go: Why this is crunch time for the Burghley team.
• A New Direction: How reversing the course changes the challenges for riders.
• Design Secrets: The small details — from tree placement to car positioning — that shape the way fences ride.
• Heritage Meets Innovation: Keeping legendary features like Lionbridge, the Leaf Pit, and Defender Valley fresh while showcasing sponsors.
• Fence to Watch: The revamped Trout Hatchery at the seven-minute mark.
• Ground Game: How the team is delivering top-class going despite a dry summer.

Guests

• Martyn Johnson – Event Director, Defender Burghley Horse Trials
• Derek di Grazia – International Course Designer, Burghley Burghley Horse Trials

Host

• Nicole Brown

Check out the Burghley website here.

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.