Horseytalk.net Special Interview
James Sommerville
Meet 4-star eventer, James Sommerville.
James Sommerville, who has just become a Grubs sponsored rider, is based in Northallerton, North Yorkshire and is currently campaigning a talented string of horses.
Here we caught up with James to find out more.
James has ridden ever since he was young, despite preferring tennis and football his family's passion for horses forced him into riding. He joined the York and Ainsty North Pony Club at the age of just four and a few years later was bitten by the eventing bug and decided that it was all he wanted to do.
After completing his A-Levels, James has trained with Chris McGrann and then Oliver Townend. He now thoroughly enjoys training and producing "proper" horses from scratch and is a highly dedicated to the sport.
James' top horse is the 9-year-old, Talent who was placed 14th in the CIC*** at Burgham and also completed Blenheim CIC***. This lovely horse, who won the Burghley Young Event Horse Championship as a four year old, has certainly lived up to his name this season, producing a double clear at every event.
Altaskin Jack, a six-year-old bought from Vere Phillips in April won his first Novice class at Aston Le Walls in July.
James qualified no less than seven horses for the Burghley Young Event Horse Finals, which is a considerable achievement. The two four year olds are Rehy Royal Diamond and Prince Couture, together with Shadow Inspector, Bally Louis, DHI Boss Boy, Master Ramiro and Sandro Time who are all five.
When asked what he looks for when buying an event horse, James stated "It must be nicely put together, level behind with matching front feet and generally good confirmation. I like them to have an attractive head and eye and nice legs. Breeding is also important and they should have a good jump and gallop."
James trains with a selection of trainers as he likes "to have different trainers for different horses, depending on who suits who" and chooses between Judy Bradwell, Ian Woodhead and Chris Bartle.
Having put in several good performances at three-star level this season, James is aiming to compete Talent at 4-star level next year and is aiming for team selection in the future. "I would love to win at Bramham as well, as it's one of my favourite events" said James.
When James gets a moment away from the yard he likes to go out and socialise with friends.
When asked what advice he would give to any budding event riders, he jokingly replies "don't do it...it costs a fortune!" He also says "make the most of it and enjoy it! If you have a lesson make sure it is worthwhile."
James loves wearing Grubs boots because "they are really comfy and very waterproof. They come in great colours too!"
For more information contact Grub's on 01279 418052 or visit www.grubsboot.com