Find out more about the leading figures behind BD Presents... Harmonious Progression with Rothera Bray.
Join Gareth Hughes, Michael Eilberg, Isobel Wessels and Brad Hill for an inspiring day exploring how horses and riders can develop a successful, ethical partnership as they progress from Novice level through to Grand Prix.
Gareth Hughes
Former World Championship team rider Gareth Hughes brings over a decade of elite international experience to BD Presents. With more than 60 National and International titles, multiple Nations Cup wins, and team medals at the World Equestrian Games and European Championships, Gareth has represented Great Britain at the highest level, and was Team GBR reserve at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. His wealth of experience and expertise make him a valuable addition to BD Presents.
Michael Eilberg
Michael Eilberg comes from one of Britain’s leading dressage dynasties. Son of renowned trainer and medallist Ferdi Eilberg and brother of international rider Maria Eilberg, Michael has built an impressive career in his own right as a top-level rider, trainer and coach. A former British team rider, Michael has competed successfully at Grand Prix level, winning European and World Equestrian Games team medals with Half Moon Delphi and Marakov. Based in Worcestershire, Michael is renowned for producing talented young horses and developing riders at all levels. This year, Michael competed at the LeMieux Nationals in the Fairfax Saddles Prix St. Georges Gold Championship on EDH Nanouk and the Advanced Medium Gold Championship on EDH Franklin Rose.
Isobel Wessels
Isobel Wessels is an FEI 5* judge, Level 3 coach and former Grand Prix rider with more than 30 years’ involvement in the sport. Her career spans competing, coaching, judging and developing horses and riders to international level. She has judged European Championships, World Cup qualifiers, Nations Cups and World Young Horse Championships. At this year’s LeMieux National Championships, Isobel was part of the judging panel for the KBIS Young Horse Championships. Isobel will be offering her invaluable insight and knowledge to those attending BD Presents.
Brad Hill
Brad Hill is a Clinical Associate Professor at Nottingham Vet School and an equine vet with extensive experience in first opinion practice. His clinical career highlighted the vital role that an understanding of horse behaviour plays in safe handling, training and welfare. He has been instrumental in embedding equine behaviour and learning theory within the Nottingham veterinary curriculum and is a passionate advocate for advancing equine welfare through education and evidence-based practice. Brad also works within British Equestrian, supporting the development and dissemination of best practice in horse behaviour, training and welfare. His research interests centre on equine welfare and behaviour, including the effects of weaning-related stress on the emotional health of young horses.
