Every team needs a mascot, and who better to support our fabulous British Eventing riders at the Paris 2024 Olympics than the loveable rogue Hovis?
Famed for his witty character and amusing stories, Hovis’ Friday diaries have been a popular read on the Horse & Hound website since 2008. Amongst his many accolades, Hovis has inextricable bonds to eventing, having been previously ridden by the likes of eventing legend Mary King at Belton Horse Trials, and has already met some of the team heading out to Paris, including having been chatted up by Paris contender Ros Canter.
Now, Hovis is taking his responsibilities to the next level and has been called up as British Eventing’s official supporter mascot to the eventing team during their Paris journey. Alongside boosting the team’s morale and bringing them good luck, Hovis in Paris will also be promoting British Eventing’s Here to Help campaign.
Rosie Williams, CEO of British Eventing said: “I’m delighted that Hovis has accepted the role as official supporter mascot for British Eventing at the Paris 2024. Who better than Hovis to help us cheer on the team and endorse our Here to Help scheme which aims to break down barriers and ensure anyone who wants to event is aware they can do so. An iconic equine hero, Hovis will help bring together eventing enthusiasts from all over the country to get behind the team as one big eventing family.”
On his appointment Hovis said “This is proof that if you dream big enough then it can happen. I have been unwavering for years in my belief that at some point British Eventing would realise what they have been missing, and finally that day has come. And on no smaller stage that the Olympics! I am delighted to accept the role as British Eventing’s official supporter mascot for their riders competing at Paris. Personally, I see this as a transition step to one day being named as Chef de Squeak but this is a brilliant way of ensuring we keep everything stable for the teams but at the same time give them access to the greatest equine coach money hasn’t attempted to buy. I spent the weekend getting into the French spirit in preparation and am ready to support all our fantastic riders; I will of course be giving out advice on how the cross country course should be run, coaching on the showjumping and consoling them over the fact they have to do stressage. The team will have access to me 24/7 and I will do everything I can to help them come home triumphant from the greatest equestrian stage on earth. #HovisInParis”
You can follow all of Hovis’ adventures in Paris here and via his own dedicated Hovis in Paris – Here to Help social media page. You can also show your support by using the hashtags #HovisInParis #HovisWithUs and #HovisHereToHelp. There will also be a hotline to Rosie Williams who will be passing on any last minute bits of advice that he can give the team as they naturally will want his vast depth of knowledge and wisdom on how the course should be ridden.
