The Badminton Tour Diaries: Saturday Review
It’s Saturday night at Badminton — and we’ve lived every emotion the sport can throw at us. A sellout crowd, a rollercoaster day of cross-country, and a leaderboard stacked with tension heading into the final phase. From Oliver Townend and Cooley Rosalent’s classy round to that breathtaking performance from Ros and Lordships Graffalo, we break down the big moments, surprise packages, and leaderboard shake-ups that have set the stage for a thrilling finale. This episode is jam-packed with special guests — none of whom you’ll want to miss. Highlights: Leaderboard Leaders – Cooley Rosalent and Graffalo steal the show Graffalo Magic – Nick Luck on rhythm, poetry, and Ros Canter’s game face Kate’s Big Moment – An emotional family debut for Kate Rocher-Smith Stats & Strategy – Diarm breaks down flags, clear rates, and time Grooms Behind the Scenes with YETI – Ali Barrett’s first time in the mix zone Guests: Diarmuid Byrne – EquiRatings co-founder Nicole Brown – Host, EquiRatings Eventing Podcast Nick Luck – Broadcaster with expert reaction to cross-country day Alice Rocher – Sister of Kate Rocher-Smith, sharing an emotional behind-the-scenes perspective 247 Clothing Direct – Discussing branding, eventing, and Badminton impressions Rosie Williams – CEO of British Eventing, reflecting on the day and the importance of horsemanship Ian Cassells – Rider of Master Point, offering insights into his round and strategy Tracey Johnston – Co-owner of Eco Voltz, on supporting the sport and helping riders move fast (off the horse!) Ros Canter – Whose near-flawless cross-country round was the talk of the day Yasmin Ingham – World Champion and top British rider, sharing her reaction and reflections from the mixed zone Ali Barrett – Newest member of the EquiRatings team, sharing her first-time experience in the media mix zone The Eventing Podcast Badminton Podcast Diaries are brought to you by Eco Voltz, Voltaire Design, 247 Clothing Direct, and YETI — brands that support the sport and the stories that shape it. Eco Voltz – Makers of premium electric bikes for countryside life and competition days. Visit them at Stand 44 or explore the range at www.ecovoltz.co.uk. Voltaire Design – Handcrafted French saddles trusted by elite riders across the world. Find them at Stand 243 and online at www.voltairedesign.com. 247 Clothing Direct – Premium custom clothing designed with style, quality and performance in mind. They’re not exhibiting this year, but you can browse the range at https://www.247clothingdirect.co.uk/ EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. 👀 Want more insights, picks, and data-driven takes? Follow @equiratings_eventing for your ultimate Badminton companion.