“I hope he goes down as a legend of our sport, a legend of all time, not only but for his performances but for his character as well. He’s an unbelievable horse to have at home and he thrives on these occasions.” – Ros Canter
In the past, it could be argued that I was a bit biased towards Lordships Graffalo. In case you didn’t know, he was bred at my University and I handled him as a yearling/2 year old before he left for a more professional start to his career. But I don’t think anyone can question his legend status now!
This weekend he won his 2nd Burghley. (A 100% win rate.) Only 2 other horses have ever won 2 (or more) Burghleys; Priceless & Avebury. But neither of these have won 2 Badminton horse trials like Lordships Graffalo has. His only other run at Badminton was his first appearance at 5* where he posted 2 double clears, within the time to place 2nd. On top of this, he has achieved induvidual & team Gold at the European championships and team Gold at the Paris Olympics. No one can deny that he is an absolute eventing machine.
I feel so privallaged to have the limited time I did with him at University. While I certainly didn’t teach him anything or play any part in his success, that connection with him has made following his journey even more exciting. I hope he continues to wow us all for years to come! And no one can deny him the Legend status he deserves!
Ex Racehorse Alert: Public Address
Tom Strawson, who has won 47 winners in Point to Points, rode at Burghley for the first time this year on ex Point to Point horse Public Address. By top National Hunt stallion Milan, Public Address (also known as Brian) was bred with a successful jump racing career in mind. However, after 2 very poor runs in point to points he was retired from racing. Tom ended up picking him up for just £2000. He didn’t expect him to be a 5* event horse. Based on his conformation he didn’t expect him to be much at all! But he could jump, and that was enough for Tom to give him a chance.
They kicked off their Burghley with a dressage score of 39.8, leaving them in 47th position going into the cross country. A jumping clear a minute over the time allowed raised them up to 18th going into the show jumping. A few poles down meant they finished in 21st position. A very respectable end to their first Burghley!
Last Updated on 14/07/2026
What an incredible article — Lordships Graffalo truly deserves his place in history. His consistency, talent, and character make him a once-in-a-generation horse. And Public Address’s journey is such an inspiring reminder of how much potential ex-racehorses can have when given the right chance. Absolutely amazing to witness.