Winter preparation paid dividends with confident step-ups, big scores and emerging talent delivered across the levels

Exceptionally athletic and a supreme trier, this sensitive character met his ideal match in Oliver Townend. Catherine Austen charts the career of one of the greatest partnerships in eventing history

As winter relinquishes its grip, Tessa Waugh enjoys a copybook meet, with convivial chat, springy turf and good sport – while the real hunting aficionados demonstrate their teleporting skills

Jake Saywell tops an A-list grand prix field and a striking appaloosa hits flying form with her new rider

The relentlessly positive spirit of the VWH hounds and their huntsman is infectious during a good day’s sport

Natalie Sims Rees, 42, from Derby, is a former professional dancer who reached the final of C4’s The Great Pottery Throw Down last year. She lives with her wife Sarah and daughter Albie, six. I’ve alw