For many aspiring event riders, the LeMieux Badminton Grassroots Championships is the ultimate goal. For Ellie Nicholson and her 16.3hh Irish Sport Horse, MIH Top Gun (Toppa), that dream is becoming a reality. Ellie shares her journey to qualify for this prestigious event – a goal that has driven her from the moment she first met Toppa.
Ellie’s journey with Toppa began when she purchased the talented young horse at the age of five from The Martins of ‘Martins Irish Horses’ in Devon. At the time, Ellie was still adjusting to British Eventing, having previously competed in unaffiliated events. “Toppa was a big step up from my 15.2hh pony, and I was nervous about his power and energy,” she admits. Despite Toppa’s strong foundation, both horse and rider had much to learn together. “My focus has always been on being the best rider I can be for him so he can truly shine,” she says.
Ellie’s dream was clear from the start: to qualify for the LeMieux Badminton Grassroots Championships. What once seemed like a distant goal now felt within reach as their partnership grew stronger.
The road to qualification
The path to qualification was filled with hard work, determination, and a few setbacks. “We started the 2024 season in great form, winning the BE100 Arena Eventing Championships at Aston le Walls in February,” recalls Ellie. From there, the duo achieved consistent results – 4th at Munstead, a win at Larkhill, and 2nd at Dauntsey Park – leading them to the Blindley Heath Regional Championships, the final step before qualifying for Badminton.
However, the road wasn’t without its challenges. “I was nervous, especially after a disappointing experience at Blindley Heath the previous year,” Ellie says. During that event, Toppa spooked during the dressage due to a hedge trimmer in the next field, ending their chances of qualifying. But Ellie and Toppa came back stronger. A dressage score of 31.8, a clear showjumping round, and an impressive cross-country performance secured their qualification for Badminton. “We did it! We’re heading to LeMieux Badminton Grassroots Championships at BE100,” Ellie exclaims.
Preparing for the big event
With Badminton just around the corner, Ellie’s focus is on Toppa’s well-being and performance. Regular physio sessions, saddle checks, and a vet health check in April will ensure Toppa is in peak condition. Ellie’s studies in Equine Sport Science at Hartpury University are also proving invaluable, with access to facilities like the water treadmill, which helps Toppa’s core strength and fitness.
But it’s not just about Toppa – Ellie is focusing on her own fitness too. “I’ve realized that rider fitness is just as important as my horse’s,” she adds. Ellie is running, strength training, and working on her mental game to ensure she’s in the best shape for the challenge ahead.
Ellie is also incredibly grateful for the support she’s received from British Eventing coaches and mentors. With the Badminton Grassroots Championships approaching, her goal is clear: to enjoy the experience, give her best performance, and soak in every moment. “We’re excited to enjoy the Badminton experience, no matter the result,” she says.
Do you have an inspiring story of your own journey to Badminton Grassroots? We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to us at marketing@britisheventing.com.
To find out more about the LeMieux Design Badminton Grassroots Championships, click here.
