For Sophie Sadler, completing her cross-country round in the 2026 BE90 LeMieux Badminton Grassroots Championship yesterday (6 May) was less about results and more about taking a step forward in rebuilding her confidence.

“We’ve had a bit of a rocky start to the season,” says Sophie, who is grooming for Alex Bragg at in the five-star competition at Badminton this week. “With the showjumping and my confidence – everything, really. My confidence just hasn’t been great.”

Sophie was competing her own 16-year-old Joe’s High Flyer. They added eight faults in the showjumping and 7.6 cross-country time-faults to a very competitive 29.4 dressage to finish in 65th place from 95 starters, which is no mean feat considering her confidence wobbles in the run up to this event.

She purchased Joe directly from his breeder seven years ago and Sophie, who originally hails from Yorkshire, has evented him ever since.

“He’s the best horse ever,” she says. “But we’ve had a couple of falls.”

Since then, the focus has shifted away from chasing results and towards regaining confidence in the saddle. The pair has previously competed at novice level, but this season has been about taking the pressure off and working back up to enjoying the sport again.

Joe has played a central role in that process.

“He’s been amazing to help me get it back,” states Sophie.

That approach paid off on cross-country, where Sophie says she was able to relax and enjoy herself again.

“I’m so happy, because I had fun, and I haven’t had fun in a long time across country. It’s just the best feeling going round that cross-country course.”

Crossing the finish line was a particularly significant moment.

“Just to finish – it feels amazing. I’m just happy to finish with a smile on my face.”

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