Riding high

Zoë Slater talks to Richard Davison, the captain of the British dressage team, about his Olympic preparation and long-running Hiscox sponsorship

As one of Britain’s most successful dressage riders, Richard Davison is currently preparing for what will be his fifth Olympics. Having ridden in Atlanta, Sydney and Athens, Richard became captain of the British team for the Beijing games in 2008.

Being team captain means that Richard is in charge of strategy. Proving just how much planning is involved, he says he’s not just thinking about London, but is also looking ahead to the 2016 games in Rio de Janeiro. His primary role, though, is to manage the support team to ensure that all the riders and horses are well prepared.

“It’s very exciting work and I’m so happy that our dressage team is fast becoming one of the best in the world,” Richard says. He is currently training with Hiscox Artemis, the 12-year-old German gelding who will hopefully compete at the London games. “Hiscox Artemis is a horse with a lot of potential,” Richard says. “He also has a strong character, which has meant that we’ve had to go very much at his pace. He’s not very tall but he’s strongly built and headstrong, so we’ve been taking it carefully.”

Training for success
The top level of dressage is known as the grand prix and tests the complete range of a horse’s athleticism. Hiscox Artemis’s training has been devoted to the technical side of this, and it’s paying off. “Having been successful in what are known as three-star competitions, he’s now competing at a five-star level, so he’s at the top of his game,” Richard says.

The only downside to taking part in such competitions is that they draw a large crowd, which can be quite disconcerting for a young horse. Knowing how important it is that he remains calm, Richard has spent the past few months training the horse in this area.

Hiscox’s sponsorship of Artemis began in 2009, but the relationship with Richard has been ongoing since Hiscox underwriter Julian Lloyd approached him in 1997. Richard couldn’t be happier with the arrangement.

“To have Hiscox behind me is great, as it’s a global name that is known for quality and reliability,” he says. “I’ve certainly found over the years that, no matter where I’ve been, if I’ve had an issue it’s been very easy to get someone on the phone. The support, expertise and advice is always there.”

According to Annabel Venner, Marketing Director, Hiscox UK and Ireland, the sponsorship works well for both parties. “Richard is a real ambassador for dressage and for Hiscox, and he has done a fantastic job of raising awareness of our brand among equestrian fans,” she says.

Richard’s commitment to his sponsors is evident. “I’m famed for spreading the brand,” he says. “Robert Hiscox thinks I even go around wearing Hiscox underpants.” Leaving his underpants aside, it is clear to see that Richard’s relationship with Hiscox has helped him reach the very top of his profession.