I’m Tom Hollins, and I’ve been riding since the age of 9. I have competed in eventing up to Novice level and in British Dressage up to Medium level.

My main passion is show jumping and producing young horses, helping them develop and progress to reach their full potential.

QUESTIONS

1. Where are you based?

We are based in Little Ness , Shrewsbury . We have a yard of approximately 10 horses ranging from young horses to open Grand Prix horses

2. When did your riding journey begin?

I have ridden since I was around 9 years old. I’ve been fascinated and loved horses from an early age. My parents finally gave in and purchased my first pony at 9

3. What discipline(s) do you compete in?

I primarily show jump . I have done dressage and eventing too

4. What has been your proudest achievement so far?

There are lots of special moments with horses.  Jumping the foxhunter second round last year with Lego was very special as I had produced him myself . Also jumping and being placed abroad with horses in the age classes

5. Tell us about your top horse!

I have young horses at the moment . They are all lovely and very exciting

6. What does a typical day look like for you?

- my day starts early . I’m on the yard for 5 . Feeding , haying and mucking out . Riding , turning out etc. I leave the yard at 8:30 to go to my proper job as the manager at Hope Valley Saddlery Kelsall. I get back to the yard for 7 to finish the horses . My days off are filled with horses and shows

7. What are your goals for the future?

I would love to jump abroad again as the shows are amazing . Producing a young horses through the ranks is very satisfying and rewarding for me

8. Do you have any top riding tips or advice?

keep going . Everyone has bad days . Focus on the good days and believe In yourself .

9. Do you have any pre-competition rituals or lucky habits?

I just like everything organised, clean and tidy

10. Favourite post-ride snack or treat?

- I love chocolate

11. What’s your favourite Rowen Barbary product and why?

muscle builder has been amazing for many of our horses

QUICK FIRE ROUND ⚡

• Bay or Grey? Bay – Easier to clean!
• Mare or Gelding? Mare
• Dressage or Showjumping? Showjumping
• Hacking or Flatwork? Flatwork
• Matchy sets or Classic colours? CLASSIC COLOURS
• Indoor arena or Riding outside? Indoors in winter and outdoors in summer
• Tea or Coffee? Squash - I don’t drink hot drinks 🙈
• Sweet or Savoury? Sweet
• Dream horse? Grandorado TN
• Favourite thing about competing? When it all goes right.