Robert Murphy is a Lancashire Rider who is now based in Belgium with his top team of horses. Winner of the HOYS Redpost Equestrian Foxhunter Final in 2022, Rob is now jumping across Europe at CSI4* level.
Who are your top horses?
My top horses at the moment are Comme Cornet, who is a 10 year old gelding by Comme Il Faut and Godolphin, as well as Imbeer who is a 10 year old KWPN Stallion by Etoulon Vdl and Oleaster.
When did you start to ride?
I’ve been riding since before I could walk.
Was this always something you wanted to do?
Growing up with a horsey family, it has always been a goal of mine to make showjumping a career.
What are your 5 favourite products from Redpost?
- Cavalleria Toscana GP Mens Competition Jacket – It is clear they use premium materials and this jacket offers great freedom of movement and I love the fit of this jacket.
- The wide selection of bits – You can never have enough bits! I really enjoy the process of finding the perfect bit for every horse, and having such a wide variety at your fingertips is a big help!
- Veredus Magnetik Rug – I find this is great to use before competing at the bigger shows to prepare for a class.
- The Uvex Suxxeed Active Helmet – It’s very lightweight and comfortable to ride in while still being up to standards
- My Uvex Gloves – I have tried a lot of gloves over the years. These are by far the best. They are very comfortable, durable and give a great feeling when holding the reins.
What is your most memorable horse-riding moment?
It has to be winning the HOYS Redpost Foxhunter Final in 2022.
Where is your favourite place to compete?
My favourite show I have been to so far is the sunshine tour in Andalucia, as the facilities are the best in Europe!
Can you run us through how you prepare for the big shows?
I prepare each horse in a different way depending on what’s best for them. To prepare myself, I usually like to plan a lot in advance and make sure when I get to the show I get into a good routine so I can focus on competing.
What types of off-horse activities have you found to have helped your riding the most over the years?
When i’m not riding, I study a lot of the big riders on video to try and pick up on the small things they are doing to get the best ride.
What advice have you been given that has stuck with you the most?
The best advice i’ve been given is simple; Be patient, work hard and never give up.
Who has been the most special horse in your riding career so far and why?
Del Fuego is the most important In my opinion he was my first horse and we won individual gold for children on horses European championships. He taught me a lot and made a great foundation for me to continue further into my career. I owe a lot to that horse
Who is your greatest riding inspiration?
Scott Brash, Nick Skelton and Peter Charles. They all came from very humble beginnings, and all three dominated the industry for decades on and off the horses.
What are your goals for the next 5 years?
In the next 5 years I aim to become a more established member of Nations Cup teams and try to push my way up the world rankings, whilst continuing to produce young horses for the future.
