Her Majesty Queen Camilla will attend the Mars Badminton Horse Trials this Friday, May 8, in her capacity as Patron of the Ebony Horse Club, placing the spotlight firmly on the event’s chosen charity for 2026.
Queen Camilla has long been associated with a deep appreciation for horses and equestrian life, reflecting a passion shared across the Royal Family. She is known to take a close interest in equestrian sport and the welfare of horses, and has supported a number of equine charities over the years.
The Ebony Horse Club, based in Brixton, south London, works with young people from disadvantaged communities in Lambeth, using horsemanship to build confidence, skills and career opportunities. Founded in 1996, the club has become a prominent example of how equestrian sport can deliver social impact beyond the field of play.
The charity will have a visible presence at Badminton, including a dedicated stand and a named cross-country obstacle — the Ebony Horse Club Gates — early in the course.
‘A suitably challenging track’
This year’s redesigned cross-country track will run anti-clockwise and introduce new technical challenges, with the Quarry the first combination.
Course-designer Eric Winter has increased the number of combinations while simplifying individual elements, placing a premium on rider judgement and time management.
Among the changes is a revised route at the MARS Lake, where competitors will loop back through the water in front of spectators. View the course here.
“There will be more combinations on the course this year — 13 in total — but with less elements than previously,” said Eric. “Riders will therefore need to exercise judgement if they are to achieve the optimum time.
“I think it will be a suitably challenging track for what looks a high-class field.”
Strong entries
A strong field of entries is led by world number one Harry Meade, who brings three rides and will be first out of the startbox on cross-country day, alongside defending champion Ros Canter and top international contenders including Tim Price, Caroline Powell and Oliver Townend.
The competition will be streamed live via Badminton TV, while the BBC will air highlights on Sunday, culminating in live coverage of the showjumping phase to crown the 2026 champion.
Main image © Shutterstock
