Hello William
Horse & Hound|September 28, 2023
A wild-child gelding and teenage Olli Fletcher began their partnership jumping 80cm and were recently placed in their first five-star grand prix - on a comeback from life-threatening colic. Jennifer Donald meets the brilliant "Willy Wonka"
Hello William

RIDER OLLI FLETCHER

“MY dad fell in love with Hello William after five jumps. He has a very good eye for a horse and he saw something in him that nobody else would or could. William lived in the field for two weeks because nobody could catch him. I was still at school and knew little about him, but one day he trotted over to me. I rang my parents and said, ‘Shall I bring him in?’ I put some tack on, jumped him and took him straight to a show! So his first show wasn’t until the end of his six-year-old year and we did two 80cm before he started stepping up.

This story is from the September 28, 2023 edition of Horse & Hound.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the September 28, 2023 edition of Horse & Hound.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM HORSE & HOUNDView All
'He's a terrier - a very classy terrier'
Horse & Hound

'He's a terrier - a very classy terrier'

Jonbon emulates some legendary chasers as a dual Tingle Creek victor, and trainer Dan Skelton scores a seasonal century

time-read
2 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Rupert
Horse & Hound

Rupert

This beautiful master's horse hates quad bikes and is \"scared of his rug\" but is dearly loved by both Nigel Peel and his son Jamie

time-read
3 mins  |
December 12, 2024
London's landmark moments
Horse & Hound

London's landmark moments

What makes London so special for dressage fans? Oscar Williams delves into its unique history, speaking to experts about their most treasured memories and the show's remarkable evolution in the sport

time-read
4 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Golden oldies take centre stage
Horse & Hound

Golden oldies take centre stage

The finals at London International are among the most regarded championships on the senior showing circuit. Alex Robinson investigates the finals and what's contributed to their popularity

time-read
5 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Winter wrapped up
Horse & Hound

Winter wrapped up

With the long-range weather forecast suggesting a chilly winter ahead, how can equestrians prepare for the challenges of frost, ice and snow? Stephanie Bateman finds out

time-read
5 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Party time
Horse & Hound

Party time

From Whitaker vs Whitaker football matches to a hunting choir roaring carols, top riders know how to let their hair down at Christmastime. Netia Walker unearths the best festive parties

time-read
6 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Rocking their world
Horse & Hound

Rocking their world

Rocking horses were once a common fixture in children's playrooms - or a charming trinket on a Christmas tree. Now, some are getting a new lease of life for grown-up enthusiasts, finds Liz Falkingham

time-read
6 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Winter watering
Horse & Hound

Winter watering

Maintaining a horse's water intake is crucial, but can be tricky in the colder months. Karen Coumbe MRCVS explains why, and how to help

time-read
5 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Shetland Pony Grand National organiser
Horse & Hound

Shetland Pony Grand National organiser

Sebastian Garner on whittling down applicants, playing headmaster and the joy of watching Shetlands at full lick

time-read
3 mins  |
December 12, 2024
Peder Fredricson
Horse & Hound

Peder Fredricson

The Swedish flagbearer and four-time Olympic medallist tells Jennifer Donald about 2024's ups and downs, the key to social licence and silver linings

time-read
8 mins  |
December 12, 2024