Rider 2 – Isabella Stagg, Ipswich, Suffolk
Isabella Stagg
Isabella Stagg and Quite A Compliment from Ipswich, Suffolk, qualified at British Eventing’s Goring Heath (2) last year. Competing for the first time at the Mitsubishi Motors Cup, in the BE100 competition, Isabella fits her riding in around her full time job at Inspire Suffolk, a Prince’s Trust programme that aims to help people get back into work and education.
Quite A Compliment, or Holly as she is known at home is a nine year old Hanoverian mare and particularly enjoys the cross country.
“It’s her favourite phase, she is a real machine cross country and will jump anything,” said Isabella. “She also enjoys her dressage but galloping across Badminton estate on the course is going to be my highlight. I also can’t wait to get to the Mitsubishi Motors Cup and to be part of the unforgettable experience. My mum and sister are coming with me to support and help get Holly gleaming, ready for a truly amazing competition!”
Do you have a secret superstition before a competition?
Yes I do, I have to do everything in a certain order before we load her onto the lorry before a competition. If something changes or is different I feel really unsettled. I also have to check several times if we have everything from the tack room.
What do you never leave home without?
My Willberry Wonder Pony wristband, I feel like it’s my lucky charm.
Which is your favourite discipline?
Definitely the cross country but dressage is very close behind. I love schooling at home so we practice a lot on the flat.
Who inspires you?
Oliver Townend. I once had a lesson with him and he was so informative and helped me a lot. I feel you can also learn a lot from watching him ride at events.
